Classic Baked Donuts with Colorful Glaze

Introduction:
Baked donuts are a delightful and healthier alternative to their fried counterparts, and when topped with vibrant glazes, they become not just a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes as well. This classic baked donut recipe from Sugar Geek Show is perfect for those looking to enjoy a delicious, homemade sweet treat without the hassle of frying. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these baked donuts are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

Ingredients:

For the Donuts:

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 1/2 tablespoons (20g) unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Colorful Glaze:

• 2 cups (240g) powdered sugar, sifted
• 3-4 tablespoons (45-60ml) milk or water
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Food coloring (various colors)
• Sprinkles (optional)

Instructions:

Making the Donuts:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray.

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:

• In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

1. Combine Wet Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

1. Form the Batter:

• Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be slightly lumpy.

1. Fill the Donut Pan:

• Spoon the batter into a large ziplock bag and cut off one corner to create a piping bag. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.

1. Bake the Donuts:

• Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when touched and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

1. Cool:

• Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Colorful Glaze:

8. Prepare the Glaze:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk (or water), and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thick, add a bit more milk; if it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.

8. Add Color:

• Divide the glaze into separate bowls and add a few drops of food coloring to each bowl, mixing until you achieve the desired shades.

8. Glaze the Donuts:
   • Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off before placing them back on the wire rack. Add sprinkles on top, if desired.
9. Set the Glaze:
   • Let the glaze set for about 20 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Baked Donuts:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This ensures the batter mixes more evenly.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to dense, tough donuts.
• Proper Glaze Consistency: Achieve the perfect glaze consistency by adjusting the amount of liquid added.

Conclusion:

These classic baked donuts with colorful glaze are not just a treat for the taste buds but also a delightful visual treat. Easy to prepare and healthier than their fried counterparts, they are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or any festive occasion. Enjoy the process of making them and share the joy with family and friends. Happy baking!