If you’re searching for a cheerful, citrusy treat that captures the taste of sunshine year-round, you absolutely must try these Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze. Imagine a soft, fluffy donut delicately infused with vibrant lemon flavor, dunked in a zesty, tangy glaze that leaves you smacking your lips for more. These beautiful little rounds are the perfect pick-me-up for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon treat, offering a delightful balance of sweet and puckery goodness. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, you’ll love how easy and rewarding it is to whip up a batch of Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze in your own kitchen!

Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients list for Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze is refreshingly simple, making it easy to pull together a batch whenever a craving strikes. Each component brings something unique to the table, whether it’s moisture, tang, or that show-stopping golden hue.

1 large egg: Adds structure and keeps the donuts tender inside.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps create a lovely, light crumb.
6 ounces Greek yogurt (or sour cream): Rich and creamy, this boosts moisture and imparts a tender bite.
1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil: Ensures every donut bakes up soft instead of dry.
1 tablespoon lemon zest: Intensifies the citrus punch with bright, aromatic flavor.
1 tablespoon lemon extract (not juice or oil): Gives a robust lemon flavor that truly stands out.
Few drops yellow food coloring (optional): Turns your donuts a happy, lemony yellow—eye-catching and fun!
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the donuts, creating structure without heaviness.
1/2 teaspoon baking powder: Lifts the donuts for extra fluffiness.
1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Gives an additional rise and helps with browning.
1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Brightens and balances the flavors.
1 cup confectioners’ sugar: The base for your addictive lemon glaze.
3 tablespoons lemon juice (for the glaze): Brings that bright, fresh zing to every bite.

How to Make Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze

Step 1: Prep Your Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350F. Lightly spray a 6-count non-stick donut pan and a mini muffin pan with cooking spray (or grease them with a little oil or butter if you prefer). This makes sure your donuts and “donut holes” slide out easily, looking gorgeous and picture-perfect.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, granulated sugar, Greek yogurt, oil, lemon zest, lemon extract, and, if you’re feeling playful, a few drops of yellow food coloring. This combo not only creates a smooth, creamy mixture but also infuses your donuts with that irresistible sweet-citrusy aroma even before baking.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt straight into your wet mixture. Gently fold everything together with a spatula or large spoon just until it comes together—you don’t want to overmix, as this can lead to dense donuts instead of that pillowy soft texture!

Step 4: Fill the Pans

Spoon the batter into your prepared pans, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. If you want super tidy donuts, scoop the batter into a large zip-top bag, snip off a corner, and pipe it neatly into the pans. For donut holes, use a 2-tablespoon cookie scoop or just heap a tablespoon of batter into each mini muffin cup.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Pop both pans into the oven and bake for 13 to 16 minutes. Donuts are ready when they’re lightly golden, set, and spring back when gently pressed. Keep an eye on them—the baking time can vary based on pan size and oven quirks. Donut holes may finish a bit sooner than full-size donuts.

Step 6: Cool Before Glazing

Let your donuts and donut holes cool in the pan for a few minutes, which helps them firm up and makes removing them easier. While they cool, you can whip up that magical lemon glaze!

Step 7: Make the Lemon Glaze

In a small bowl, stir together the confectioners’ sugar with the lemon juice, adding the juice gradually until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Don’t be shy about adjusting—add a touch more sugar for a thicker glaze or a splash more juice for an extra-drippy finish.

Step 8: Glaze and Enjoy!

Dip the tops of each donut (and donut hole, if you made them) right into the lemon glaze, letting the excess drip off for that lush, bakery-style look. Let them set for a minute or two, then dive in! Each bite of your Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze will feel like a bite of pure sunshine.

How to Serve Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze

Garnishes

These donuts are already stunning, but a few special touches go a long way. Sprinkle with extra lemon zest, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a scattering of edible flowers for a truly show-stopping presentation. If you’re entertaining, these little additions make a big impression—nobody can resist a platter of beautifully dressed Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze!

Side Dishes

Pairing your donuts with other treats brings the whole experience together. Try serving them alongside fresh berries, a fruit salad, or even a creamy vanilla yogurt parfait. For brunch or a leisurely breakfast, offer coffee, tea, or a bright glass of iced lemonade—the tart flavors play perfectly off these donuts and their lemon glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with your presentation! Stack the donuts tall on a cake stand, arrange donut holes in pretty cupcake liners, or skewer them for a fun, party-ready treat. You can even make a DIY donut bar—set out lots of glazes, sprinkles, and toppings so everyone can style their own Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze just the way they love them.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze taste freshest the day they’re made, but you can store any extras in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Just be sure they’re completely cool before packaging, so the glaze stays set and the texture remains dreamy.

Freezing

These donuts freeze beautifully! Place cooled, unglazed donuts in a zip-top bag or airtight container and freeze for up to two months. When craving strikes, simply thaw at room temperature, then whip up a quick batch of lemon glaze to dip and enjoy fresh flavor anytime.

Reheating

To bring donuts back to life, warm them in the microwave for just 10–15 seconds. This revives their soft texture and brings out their lemony aroma. If you’ve frozen the donuts, let them thaw before reheating, then glaze for the best taste and texture.

FAQs

Can I use plain yogurt or sour cream instead of Greek yogurt?

Absolutely! Sour cream works beautifully and plain yogurt is a fine substitute. Both make the donuts exceptionally tender. Just stick to full-fat or 2% for the richest flavor and texture.

Is lemon extract really necessary for Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze?

Yes, lemon extract is key for a bright, pronounced flavor. Lemon juice or lemon oil won’t have the same power. If you love all things lemon, using the extract will guarantee that bold citrus essence in every bite.

Do I have to use food coloring?

Not at all—food coloring is purely optional. It gives your donuts a cheerful yellow hue, but without it your Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze will still taste just as amazing with a more subtle natural color.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

No problem! Mini muffin pans work wonderfully to create “donut holes” with the same texture and flavor. The shape changes, but the delicious factor totally remains.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. This recipe doubles easily, just use a larger bowl and batch your batches if you’re short on pans. It’s perfect for brunch parties, holiday mornings, or any occasion where you want to impress with a platter of Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so joyful about sharing a treat as bright and happy as Baked Lemon Donuts with Lemon Glaze. Whether you’re a lemon lover at heart or just craving something fresh and different, these homemade donuts deliver pure comfort with every bite. Give them a try—you might just find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again!