Ingredients:
For the Donuts:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup whole milk
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons lemon zest
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Lemon Glaze:
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon milk (more if needed to thin the glaze)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Donuts
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or line a donut pan with non-stick spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, and melted butter until fully combined.
Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. The batter should be thick but smooth.
Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 of the way full.
Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
Step 2: Make the Lemon Glaze
Whisk the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
Step 3: Glaze the Donuts
Coat the Donuts: Once the donuts have cooled slightly, dip the top of each donut into the lemon glaze, allowing any excess glaze to drip off. For extra flavor, drizzle the glaze over the sides of the donuts as well.
Enjoy your Fluffy Lemon Donuts!