Soft Blueberry Baked Donuts

This homemade blueberry baked donut recipe transforms a typically fried indulgence into a healthier breakfast option without sacrificing flavor. The donuts emerge from the oven with a tender crumb studded with juicy blueberries, making them perfect for weekend brunches or an elevated everyday breakfast.

I discovered this recipe during a rainy Sunday morning when my family was craving something special but I wanted to avoid the heaviness of store bought donuts. Now these blueberry baked treats have become our weekend tradition, with everyone gathering in the kitchen to decide on toppings.

Ingredients

• Milk of choice: Provides moisture and works with any variety you prefer, dairy or plant based
• White or apple cider vinegar: Creates a reaction with the baking powder for perfect rise
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds that warm aromatic quality essential to good baked goods
• Pure maple syrup, agave, or honey: Sweetens naturally without refined sugar
• Oil: Creates tenderness but can be substituted with applesauce or banana for fat-free version
• Flour: Works with all-purpose, spelt, or gluten-free blends, making this recipe adaptable for dietary needs
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness
• Baking powder: Provides the perfect rise for fluffy donuts
• Optional cardamom or cinnamon: Adds a subtle warmth that complements the blueberries beautifully
• Fresh or frozen blueberries: Burst with flavor and create pretty purple streaks throughout

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Wet Ingredients:

Combine milk, vinegar, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and oil in a bowl and set aside to allow the vinegar to slightly curdle the milk, which improves texture. This mixture creates the moist base for your donuts, ensuring they stay tender.

Prepare Baking Equipment:

Thoroughly grease your donut pan or mini muffin pan if you don’t have a donut-specific pan. Preheat your oven to 350°F, which is the perfect temperature for even baking without over-browning the exterior.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a separate bowl, stir together flour, salt, baking powder, and your optional spice. Whisking these together ensures even distribution of the leavening agents for consistent rise throughout all your donuts.

Combine Wet and Dry:

Once the oven has reached temperature, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir just until evenly mixed, being careful not to overmix, which would develop gluten and make tough donuts. The batter should look just combined with no flour streaks.

Add Blueberries:

Either fold the blueberries in very gently to prevent breaking or press them into the batter after you’ve portioned it into the pan. If using frozen berries, ensure they’re completely thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in the batter.

Bake to Perfection:

Place in preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the donuts have risen and the batter is no longer wet when lightly touched. Different flours may require slight adjustments to baking time.

Cool and Remove:

Allow donuts to rest in the pan for exactly 5 minutes. This cooling period helps them set up enough to remove cleanly but not so long that they stick to the pan. Gently remove and place on a cooling rack.

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The blueberries are undoubtedly the star of this recipe. I discovered through many test batches that folding them in at the very end produces the prettiest results. My daughter loves helping press the berries into the batter, claiming she creates "blueberry constellations" in each donut.

Freezer Friendly Storage

These blueberry donuts freeze beautifully for up to three months. Cool them completely, then wrap individually in plastic wrap before placing in a freezer bag. To enjoy later, simply thaw at room temperature for about an hour or microwave for 20 seconds. This make-ahead option is perfect for busy mornings when you want something special without the work.

Smart Substitution Ideas

The versatility of this recipe allows for endless variations. Replace blueberries with raspberries, chocolate chips, or diced apples. For a zestier version, add lemon zest to the batter and top with lemon glaze. Those avoiding gluten find that a one-to-one gluten-free flour blend works seamlessly in this recipe without any additional adjustments needed.

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Topping Suggestions

While these donuts are delicious plain, they reach new heights with the right topping. Try a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk, or go tropical with the suggested coconut butter. For a breakfast-worthy option, a light cream cheese frosting with a touch of maple syrup creates a decadent yet not-too-sweet finish that pairs perfectly with morning coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, both fresh and frozen blueberries work well in this recipe. If using frozen, ensure they are thawed before mixing them in.

→ What flour can I use?

This recipe works with all-purpose, spelt, or gluten-free flour. Choose the one that suits your dietary needs.

→ How do I avoid overmixing the batter?

To avoid overmixing, gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can result in dense donuts.

→ Can I make these donuts without oil?

Yes, you can replace the oil with applesauce or mashed banana for a fat-free version.

→ How long should I bake them?

Bake the donuts for 10-12 minutes at 350°F, or until they have risen and the batter is no longer wet.