Baked donuts have taken the culinary world by storm as a healthier alternative to traditional fried desserts. Perfect for brunch or an indulgent snack, these easy-to-make goodies can be customized with various fillings and toppings, making them a hit with family and friends. During my testing, I discovered the beauty in their soft, fluffy texture and how quickly they disappear when served warm from the oven. The subtle sweetness of donut filling combined with a light glaze creates an irresistible treat that keeps you coming back for more!

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these donuts can be enjoyed by everyone—no frying mess involved! You’ll love experimenting with different fillings and toppings, creating your perfect treat right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, with simple ingredients.
A healthier option compared to traditional fried donuts.
Perfectly fluffy texture that melts in your mouth.
Easily customizable with your favorite fillings or glaze.
Great for meal prep and can be made ahead of time.
Fun to make with kids, allowing them to fill their own donuts!

Recipe 1: Fluffy Jam-Filled Donuts

Ingredients

1 large egg, yolk separated (keep the white for later)
1 1/4 cups (300 ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C)
2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
1 packet (7 g) dry yeast (instant or active)
4 heaping tablespoons (120 g) plain yogurt
1/2 cup (120 ml) vegetable oil
4 to 5 cups (650-750 g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup (about 80 g) strawberry marmalade (or your favorite)
1 tablespoon (15 ml) milk (for brushing egg yolk)
3 tablespoons (25 g) icing sugar
1 tablespoon (15 g) granulated sugar
1 packet (8 g) vanilla sugar
2 tablespoons melted butter, for brushing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm milk, sugar, and dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Mix the Dough: Add the yogurt, oil, egg yolk, and salt to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in 4 cups (500 g) of flour until a soft dough begins to form. You may need to add a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky.
Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Donuts: After rising, punch down the dough to release air. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick on a floured surface. Using a glass or donut cutter, cut out circles, and cut a smaller circle in the middle for traditional donut shapes.
Fill and Seal the Donuts: Spoon about a teaspoon of marmalade in the center of half of the circles. Brush water on the edges, then place the remaining circles on top. Press gently to seal.
Second Rise: Allow the filled donuts to rest on a baking sheet for 15 minutes.
Preheat the Oven: While the donuts are resting, preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C).
Prepare for Baking: Whisk the reserved egg white with the tablespoon of milk and brush the mixture over the tops of the donuts.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Finish with Glaze: While still warm, brush the donuts with melted butter and roll them in a mixture of icing sugar, granulated sugar, and vanilla sugar for a lovely sweet coating.

Pro Tips

Make sure your yeast is active by checking for bubbles after mixing with warm milk.
Don’t skip the resting time; it enhances the flavor and texture!
Experiment with different fillings like chocolate hazelnut spread or custard.

Common Mistake

Using milk that is too hot can kill the yeast, preventing your donuts from rising properly.

Tested Note

“I found that kneading the dough for a full 8 minutes makes a big difference in texture—light and fluffy is the goal!”

Variations

Chocolate Donuts: Add cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolate flavor; fill with chocolate ganache.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Before baking, roll the donuts in cinnamon sugar instead of icing sugar—delicious!
Fruit Glaze: Top with a glaze made from powdered sugar and fruit juice for a fruity twist.

Serving Suggestions

These donuts are perfect for brunch, served warm with a cup of coffee or tea. They can be plated on a decorative stand for a delightful afternoon treat or packed individually for a sweet snack on the go.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.

Reheating Tips

To enjoy your donuts warm, pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or microwave them for 15-20 seconds.

Nutrition Estimate

Calories: 200 per donut
Protein: 3 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 10 g

Recipe Summary Card

Prep Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Cuisine: American
Course: Dessert
Calories: 200

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk? Yes, almond milk works well, but consider adding a bit of extra sugar for sweetness.
What if I don’t have yogurt? You can substitute yogurt with sour cream or buttermilk.
Can I freeze these donuts? Absolutely! Freeze them after baking, then thaw and reheat when ready to serve.
How do I make chocolate-filled donuts? Simply substitute the marmalade with your favorite chocolate spread before sealing.
What is the best way to store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

In my experience testing this recipe, I found that varying the filling truly elevates the donuts—each bite can be a delightful surprise! Enjoy experimenting and making these incredible baked donuts your own.