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Homemade Baked Vanilla Donuts photo

Baked Vanilla Donuts

These Baked Vanilla Donuts are soft, fluffy, and bursting with rich vanilla flavor—perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day!
Print Recipe Save it
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Course Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 8 servings

Equipment

  • Donut Pan
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour optionally sifted for lighter donuts
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups confectioners' sugar sifted for best results
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for the glaze
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons milk, half-and-half, or cream
  • Food coloring, sprinkles, glitter optional
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This allows the donuts to rise perfectly as soon as they hit the hot oven.
  • Lightly grease your donut pan with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking. If you have a silicone pan, you can skip this step as they tend to be non-stick.
  • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Ensure there are no lumps, especially if you chose not to sift your flour.
  • In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Make sure the butter is not too hot, or it may cook the eggs.
  • Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and gently fold them together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
  • Using a piping bag or a spoon, carefully fill each cavity of the donut pan about 2/3 full with the batter. This will allow room for the donuts to rise without overflowing.
  • Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, gently transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
  • While the donuts cool, prepare the glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted confectioners' sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk (2-3 tablespoons) until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. If you want a thicker glaze, add less milk.
  • Once the donuts are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze, letting any excess drip off. If you’re feeling festive, sprinkle with food coloring, sprinkles, or glitter while the glaze is still wet.
  • For an extra touch of sweetness, you can melt some white chocolate chips and drizzle them over the glazed donuts. Allow the chocolate to set before serving.

Notes

  • If you prefer a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of buttermilk for the batter.
  • Sift your flour before measuring for an even lighter donut texture.
  • Do not overbake; donuts should be just golden to stay moist and tender.
  • Experiment with different extracts like almond or coconut to create unique flavors.
  • Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or freeze unglazed for up to 3 months.
Keyword Baked, Donuts, Easy, Quick, Vanilla