Introduction to Baked Raspberry Donuts
How many times have I found myself racing against the clock, wishing for a delightful treat that doesn’t take hours to prepare? That’s when I discovered these Baked Raspberry Donuts. Soft, fluffy, and bursting with sweet raspberry jam, they are a little hug in donut form. Perfect for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe is not just quick but impressively elegant too. Whether you’re surprising your kids or treating yourself after a long workday, these donuts will surely put a smile on your face. And let’s be honest, who can resist the charm of homemade donuts?
Why You’ll Love This Baked Raspberry Donuts
These Baked Raspberry Donuts are a dream come true for anyone short on time but big on flavor. They come together in just a little over an hour, making them the perfect solution for a busy mom like me. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, which means they’re lighter and still incredibly tasty. Each bite is a delightful burst of raspberry that feels like an indulgence without the guilt!
Ingredients for Baked Raspberry Donuts
Gathering fresh and quality ingredients is a crucial first step in making these Baked Raspberry Donuts. Each component plays an important role in creating that fluffy texture and delightful taste. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Lukewarm water: This ingredient is essential for activating the yeast, so warm it to the touch, not hot!
- Large egg: Room temperature eggs help bind the donuts together, providing structure and moisture.
- Pure vanilla extract: To awaken those delicious flavors, this aromatic addition enhances the overall taste in every bite.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and cooled, it adds richness without overwhelming the sweetness of the donuts.
- All-purpose flour: The base of our dough, it gives the donuts their fluffy texture. You may need a bit more or less depending on humidity.
- Granulated sugar: This sweetener helps balance the tartness of the raspberry jam while giving a hint of sweetness to the dough.
- Instant yeast: Using instant yeast allows for faster fermentation, which is perfect for busy bakers like us!
- Salt: A pinch of salt enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the sugar.
- Vegetable oil: A dab of this helps to keep the dough moist and soft.
- Raspberry jam: The star of our show! Use high-quality raspberry jam for a burst of fruity flavor that complements the donuts.
- Powdered sugar: Perfect for the icing and dusting, it gives that classic sweet finish to each donut.
- Water: Needed for icing, use just enough to achieve your desired consistency.
- Extra powdered sugar: Dusting can add a picturesque touch before serving.
You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of this article for easy reference and printing!
How to Make Baked Raspberry Donuts
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into making these delightful Baked Raspberry Donuts. Remember, it’s all about the process, so let’s take it step-by-step. Follow along, and you’ll be enjoying these delicious treats in no time!
Step 1: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lukewarm water, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter. This mixture is the heart of the donut dough. Make sure the butter isn’t too hot, or it might cook the egg! The warm water helps to awaken the yeast, creating fluffy donuts.
Step 2: Mix and Form the Dough
Next, add two cups of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, instant yeast, and salt into the wet mixture. Stir until everything combines nicely into a sticky dough. Don’t worry if it looks a bit rough at first; that’s perfectly fine!
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Switch to a floured surface and sprinkle a bit more flour on your hands. Transfer the dough and knead it gently until it becomes smooth and elastic. I usually do this for about five minutes. It’s a great way to release stress! Add flour as needed if it feels too sticky.
Step 4: Let the Dough Rise
Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for 45 to 60 minutes in a warm spot. I love placing it near the oven while it’s preheating. It should double in size during this time, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma!
Step 5: Shape the Donuts
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to remove any air bubbles. Divide it into 8 to 12 equal pieces, rolling each piece into a ball. This step is where the fun begins! You can let the kids help shape the donuts if they’re around—cooking together is always a good time!
Step 6: Prepare for Baking
Place the shaped donut balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing them apart. Cover them with a towel and let them rise again for 30 to 45 minutes. It’s like giving them a little nap before their big moment in the oven!
Step 7: Bake the Donuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once your donuts have beautifully puffed up, it’s time to bake them! Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until they’re golden and the jam inside is bubbly. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overbake—nobody wants dry donuts!
Step 8: Make the Icing
While the donuts are cooling, mix together the powdered sugar, raspberry jam, and enough water to create a smooth icing. The sweetness of the sugar and the tartness of the jam will create a perfect balance. It’s a simple yet delicious finish for our already delightful donuts!
Step 9: Drizzle and Dust
Once your donuts are warm, drizzle the icing over the top. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar on top for a lovely presentation. They’ll look as amazing as they taste! Trust me, you won’t be able to resist diving right in.
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is cooled before adding it to the mixture; too hot can harm the yeast.
- Use high-quality raspberry jam for a more intense flavor that elevates these Baked Raspberry Donuts.
- Adjust your flour based on the humidity; sometimes, you might need a bit more or less.
- Don’t rush the rising time; it’s essential for achieving that fluffy texture.
- Try to dust with powdered sugar just before serving for a delightful finish!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: A large one is ideal, but any bowl will do for the initial mix.
- Whisk: Perfect for blending wet ingredients; a fork can also get the job done.
- Rolling pin: If you have one, great! Otherwise, a sturdy bottle works in a pinch.
- Parchment paper: Essential for lining your baking sheet; foil is a good alternative.
- Baking sheet: A regular baking sheet or muffin tin works—just arrange donut balls carefully!
Variations of Baked Raspberry Donuts
- Chocolate-Glazed Donuts: Swap raspberry jam for melted chocolate or add cocoa powder to the dough for a rich twist.
- Lemon Zest: Brighten the flavor by adding lemon zest to the dough or icing for a refreshing citrus kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free version of these Baked Raspberry Donuts.
- Vegan Twist: Replace the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce and use almond milk instead of water for a delightful vegan treat.
- Mixed Berry Jam: Get creative and try other jams, like blueberry or strawberry, for different flavor profiles while keeping that delightful sweetness.
Serving Suggestions for Baked Raspberry Donuts
- Coffee: Pair these donuts with a freshly brewed cup of coffee for a delightful breakfast treat.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad brightens the plate and makes for a refreshing balance.
- Ice Cream: Serve warm donuts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delightful dessert.
- Presentation: Display your donuts on a pretty cake stand or platter for an eye-catching centerpiece.
- Family Snack: Perfect for sharing, set them out for family gatherings or playdates!
FAQs about Baked Raspberry Donuts
As we dive into the delicious world of Baked Raspberry Donuts, I know you might have a few questions. Let’s tackle some common ones that pop up, so you can whip these treats up with confidence!
Can I use frozen raspberries instead of jam?
Absolutely! You can use frozen raspberries instead of jam. Just thaw them, mash them up, and sweeten to taste. This creates a fruity filling that’s fresh and delightful!
How do I store leftover donuts?
To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. You can also freeze them tightly wrapped for up to a month—just reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead and let it rise for the first time. Simply punch it down, cover it tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.
What can I substitute for powdered sugar in the icing?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can blend sucanat or coconut sugar into a fine powder and use it as a substitute. It gives you sweetness without the refined sugar!
Can I add sprinkles or nuts to the icing?
Definitely! Adding sprinkles or chopped nuts to your icing gives your Baked Raspberry Donuts a fun and festive flair. It’s a great way to let your creativity shine!
Final Thoughts
Making these Baked Raspberry Donuts is more than just following a recipe; it’s about creating sweet memories. I cherish the moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones, experimenting with new flavors and sharing the end results. Each donut carries a piece of joy, whether enjoyed during a busy breakfast rush or savored with a warm cup of tea in the afternoon. Trust me, the satisfaction of pulling these fluffy, sweet delights out of the oven is unparalleled. So roll up your sleeves and let your creativity flow! Your family will surely appreciate these delicious treats.
Print
Baked Raspberry Donuts
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 8-12 donuts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Baked Raspberry Donuts are soft, fluffy, and filled with delicious raspberry jam, topped with a sweet icing for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240mL) lukewarm water
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 6 tbsp (90g) unsalted butter (melted, cooled)
- 3 to 4 cups (360g–480g) all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2/3 cup raspberry jam (for filling)
- 1 cup (130g) powdered sugar (for icing, plus more for dusting)
- 2 tsp raspberry jam (for icing)
- 1–2 tbsp water (for icing)
Instructions
- Whisk water, egg, vanilla, and melted butter in a large bowl.
- Add 2 cups flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Mix into a sticky dough.
- Gradually add remaining flour until dough forms a ball. Knead until smooth and elastic.
- Shape into a ball, oil the top, and let rise (covered) for 45–60 mins until doubled.
- Punch down dough, divide into 8–12 pieces, and roll into balls.
- Place on parchment-lined sheet, cover, and let rise another 30–45 mins.
- Make an indent in each ball, fill with jam.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 mins until golden and jam is bubbly.
- Mix icing ingredients until smooth.
- Drizzle icing over warm donuts and dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is cooled before adding to the mixture.
- Adjust the amount of flour depending on the humidity and dough consistency.
- For a more intense raspberry flavor, use high-quality jam.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg