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Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts

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These Lemon Sugar Baked Donuts are light, fluffy, and bursting with bright lemon flavor. They are easy to make, affordable, and versatile, making them perfect for breakfast, snacks, or casual gatherings. The baked method ensures a tender texture without the need for frying, while the sugar coating adds the perfect sweet finish.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional for sugar coating)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with butter or non-stick spray, optionally dust with flour.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon.
  3. In a separate large bowl, combine melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Beat lightly until smooth.
  4. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients. Mix until just combined; small lumps are fine.
  5. Spoon the batter into a piping bag or zip-top bag. Pipe into donut pan cavities, filling each about three-quarters full. Smooth tops gently.
  6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Rotate pan halfway through baking if necessary.
  7. While baking, mix 1/2 cup sugar with optional cinnamon and extra lemon zest for coating.
  8. Let donuts cool in pan for 2–3 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack. While slightly warm, coat each donut in sugar mixture evenly.
  9. Serve warm or at room temperature. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 1–2 days.

Notes

For a sweeter, more pronounced lemon flavor, add extra zest to the sugar coating.

Avoid overmixing batter to keep donuts light and fluffy.

Optional glaze or toppings can enhance flavor and presentation.