Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Donut Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure the donuts don’t stick while baking. If you don’t have a donut pan, you can make donut holes by using a muffin tin.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using). Stir the dry ingredients until they are well combined.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in dense donuts. The batter should be thick but pourable.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Using a spoon or piping bag, evenly divide the batter into the donut pan, filling each mold about 3/4 of the way full. This will allow the donuts to rise and puff up beautifully as they bake.
Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The donuts should be golden brown on top.
Step 7: Cool the Donuts
Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. While the donuts are cooling, you can prepare the strawberry glaze.
Step 8: Prepare the Strawberry Glaze
To make the strawberry glaze, place the fresh strawberries in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk to thin it out. Once smooth, pour the strawberry puree into a bowl and whisk in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar if you prefer a thicker glaze or more milk for a thinner glaze.
Step 9: Glaze the Donuts
Dip each cooled donut into the strawberry glaze, ensuring the entire top is covered. Allow any excess glaze to drip off and place the glazed donuts on a wire rack. You can also drizzle the glaze over the donuts using a spoon if you prefer a less immersive glaze.
Step 10: Optional Garnishes
For extra flair, you can top the glazed donuts with some sprinkles, chopped nuts, or even a few extra strawberry pieces. These add texture and make the donuts even more visually appealing.
Step 11: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the glaze has set, your Strawberry-Glazed Donuts are ready to be served! They’re perfect for a morning treat with a cup of coffee or as a dessert at any summer gathering. Enjoy the sweet, fruity glaze that pairs perfectly with the soft, fluffy donuts.
Tips for Perfect Strawberry-Glazed Donuts
- Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor. Frozen strawberries can be used but may give the glaze a slightly different texture.
- Donut Pan: If you don’t have a donut pan, you can also use a muffin tin to make donut holes or simply bake them as round cakes.
- Glaze Consistency: Adjust the glaze to your liking by adding more powdered sugar for thickness or milk to thin it out.
- Store and Serve: These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. If desired, reheat them slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to warm them up.
Why You’ll Love These Strawberry-Glazed Donuts
These Strawberry-Glazed Donuts are perfect for adding a fruity twist to your usual donut recipe. They are sweet, soft, and perfectly complemented by the fresh strawberry glaze. Whether you’re looking for a weekend breakfast treat or a dessert for a gathering, these donuts are sure to become a family favorite!