Baked Strawberry Donuts Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that perfectly balances fruity freshness with tender, cakey goodness, these Baked Strawberry Donuts are about to become your new favorite. Soft, moist, and bursting with real strawberries both in the dough and glaze, they bring a sunshine-bright pop of flavor to every bite. Thanks to the addition of sour cream, these donuts have an irresistible texture that makes them feel like a cozy hug from the inside out. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or sharing them at brunch with friends, these strawberry donuts are sure to make your day a little sweeter.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is a breeze and the key to achieving those perfectly tender Baked Strawberry Donuts. Each component plays an essential role in creating that delicate crumb, subtle sweetness, and vibrant strawberry flavor that make this recipe shine.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the right structure without weighing donuts down.
• Baking soda: Helps the donuts rise lightly and keeps them fluffy.
• Kosher salt: Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
• Sour cream: Adds creaminess and moistness, resulting in tender donuts.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the donuts just right without overpowering.
• Oil: Keeps the texture soft and ensures no dryness.
• Egg: Binds ingredients and contributes richness.
• Vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor with warmth and depth.
• Fresh strawberries: Both folded into the batter and pureed for the glaze, they’re the star ingredient bringing natural fruity vibrance.
• Powdered sugar: For the smooth, glossy strawberry glaze that crowns each donut.
• Lemon zest: Adds a bright hint of citrus to perfectly compliment the strawberries.

How to Make Baked Strawberry Donuts

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Donut Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350° F. Lightly mist a donut pan with non-stick spray to make sure your donuts come out effortlessly once baked. Proper prep here will save you from any sticky mishaps later!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. These dry ingredients create the base structure for your donuts and ensure even rising and tenderness.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the sour cream, sugar, oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and homogenous. This mixture brings creaminess and flavor, making your donuts moist and rich.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently fold them just until combined. Overmixing can toughen the batter, so go easy. Then, fold in the diced fresh strawberries delicately to evenly distribute their juicy bursts without breaking them down too much.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts

Transfer the batter evenly into your prepared donut pan. Bake for about 14 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the thickest part of a donut comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Don’t rush this step; the bake time is perfect for getting that tender crumb you crave. Let the donuts cool completely before glazing.

Step 6: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze

For the glaze, combine powdered sugar, fresh strawberries, and lemon zest in a food processor or blender and pulse until smooth and creamy. This luscious pink glaze adds an irresistible tangy sweetness and a stunning finish that begs for a second donut.

Step 7: Glaze and Enjoy

Finally, dip or drizzle your cooled donuts with the strawberry glaze. Allow it to set slightly so each bite has that perfect balance of soft cake and sweet, fruity icing.

How to Serve Baked Strawberry Donuts

Garnishes

Add a few extra slices of fresh strawberries or a sprinkle of finely chopped pistachios on top for a pop of color and texture. A light dusting of powdered sugar also elevates their beauty and adds an elegant touch for any gathering.

Side Dishes

Serve these donuts alongside a cup of your favorite morning coffee or a chilled glass of milk for a comforting combo. For brunch, pair them with creamy yogurt or fresh berries to complement and enhance their fruity essence.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond just a plate—present your Baked Strawberry Donuts stacked on a pretty cake stand or arranged in a colorful basket lined with parchment paper. You can also skewer mini donuts on sticks for a fun, party-friendly treat that’s easy to grab and go.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Strawberry Donuts keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their soft texture and keeps the glaze fresh and luscious.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these donuts later, freeze them without glaze by wrapping each donut tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw at room temperature before glazing.

Reheating

Reheat donuts gently in a microwave for about 10 seconds to bring back that warm, tender sensation. Add the glaze after warming for the best texture and flavor experience.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh for Baked Strawberry Donuts?

While fresh strawberries give the best texture and vibrant flavor, frozen strawberries can work if thawed and drained well to avoid excess moisture that could affect the donut batter.

Do I have to use sour cream in this recipe?

Sour cream is key to achieving the soft and tender crumb in these donuts, but you can substitute with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar effect.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that can be substituted cup for cup. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for binding.

How do I store glazed donuts to keep the icing from melting?

Store glazed donuts in the refrigerator to keep the icing firm, but bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Are these donuts suitable for kids’ lunchboxes?

Absolutely! They’re a fun and fruity treat that’s not overly sweet, making them a delightful addition to kids’ lunches or after-school snacks.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Strawberry Donuts truly are a slice of happiness you can make at home. Their tender texture, fresh strawberry flavor, and sweet glaze make for such a special treat whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or anytime you crave a little indulgence. So grab those fresh strawberries and get baking—your taste buds will definitely thank you!