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Glazed Lemon Poppy Seed Donuts

Deliciously light and vibrant donuts with zesty lemon flavor and delightful crunch of poppy seeds, topped with a sweet, tangy glaze.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Donuts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour This light, airy base gives the donuts a perfect texture.
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder Essential for that airy lift.
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda Helps with the rise.
  • 1 Tablespoon poppy seeds Adds a unique crunch and visual appeal.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances the flavors beautifully.
  • 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Provides richness and moisture.
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature Binds the ingredients together.
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar Sweetens up the batter.
  • 1/4 cup milk Adds creaminess.
  • 1/4 cup sour cream Ensures extra moisture and a tender crumb.
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Infuses a warm aroma.
  • 1 Tablespoon lemon juice Brightens the flavor.
  • 1 Tablespoon lemon zest Amplifies the citrus aroma.
For the Glaze
  • 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted Smooths the glaze.
  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar Sweetens and thickens.
  • 1-2 Tablespoons milk Adjust for desired consistency.
  • 1 Tablespoon lemon juice Adds a zesty kick.
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Complements the glaze beautifully.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and generously spray your donut pan with non-stick spray.
Combine Dry Ingredients
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, poppy seeds, and salt.
Mix Wet Ingredients
  1. In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, sugar, milk, sour cream, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and lemon zest until fully combined.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
  1. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined.
Fill the Donut Pan
  1. Spoon the batter into the donut cavities or use a zipped-top bag to pipe the batter into each donut cup until they are about 2/3 to 3/4 full.
Bake
  1. Bake for 9-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Allow to cool for about two minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Prepare the Glaze
  1. While the donuts cool, whisk together the glaze ingredients: melted butter, confectioners’ sugar, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract.
Glaze the Donuts
  1. Once the donuts are cool enough, dip each one into the glaze and place them back on the wire rack.
Serve and Enjoy
  1. These donuts are best served immediately and will stay fresh for up to two days when covered tightly.

Notes

Zest with care; only zest the yellow part of the lemon peel. Don't overmix; mix just until combined for fluffy donuts. Experiment with flavors by adding almond extract or food coloring for the glaze.