Strawberry Cake Donuts

Strawberry cake donuts are a tasty treat that can brighten up any day. Imagine waking up to the sweet scent of freshly baked donuts, with the delightful flavor of strawberries swirling through the kitchen. These donuts are light, fluffy, and oh-so-moist, making them the perfect pick-me-up for breakfast or an afternoon snack. If you’ve never made donuts before, don’t worry! You don’t need a deep fryer or any complicated techniques. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a batch of delicious strawberry cake donuts that will have everyone asking for seconds. So, grab your apron and let’s get started on this delightful recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is designed to create delightful strawberry cake donuts that come out moist, light, and fluffy every single time. By using fresh strawberries and baking rather than frying, we ensure a treat that’s not only healthier but also incredibly flavorful. The combination of cake flour and all-purpose flour balances texture, while the buttermilk adds a rich depth to the flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Cake Donuts

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these strawberry cake donuts are effortless to make and perfect for sharing. They’re bursting with fresh strawberry flavor, ideal for breakfast or a sweet snack. Plus, the easy-to-follow instructions mean that anyone can enjoy making—and eating—their own batch at home.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• ¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk
• ¾ cup cake flour
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 12-15 fresh strawberries (about 1 cup pureed)

Preparing the Strawberry Puree

Blend Strawberries

Start by trimming the fresh strawberries to remove the green tops, then place them in a food processor. Pulse until you achieve a chunky puree. Try not to over-pulse; you want small pieces, not a liquid.

Mixing the Donut Batter

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter and sugar. Mix on medium-high speed for about 2 minutes until creamy and fluffy.

Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add the egg, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and strawberry puree to the bowl. Mix again until all the ingredients are fully blended.

Adding Dry Ingredients

Incorporate Flours and Leavening Agents

Now, sift in the cake flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir on low speed until just combined; be careful not to overmix this batter, as it can change the texture of your donuts.

Filling the Donut Pan

Prepare the Piping Bag

To make filling easier, transfer the donut batter into a piping bag or a clean freezer bag. Position the bag in a large cup, which makes it simpler to scoop the batter inside.

Fill Donut Tins

Grease the donut molds generously with butter or non-stick spray. When ready, carefully squeeze the batter into each tin, filling them no more than halfway to allow for rising.

Baking the Donuts

Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the donuts on the middle rack for 7-8 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Preparing the Glaze

Make the Glaze

In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and a splash of milk until smooth and pourable. Set this aside for when the donuts are ready.

Glazing the Donuts

Glaze and Cool

Once the donuts are baked, gently transfer them to a wire rack. Pour the glaze over each donut or, for fun, dip the tops in the glaze individually. Let them sit for 20-30 minutes until the glaze hardens a bit.

Serving Suggestions

These strawberry cake donuts are best served fresh and warm. Pair them with a cup of coffee or a soothing tea for a simple yet delicious breakfast or afternoon treat. You can even enjoy them as a dessert with whipped cream or fresh fruit on the side.

Tips for Success

To ensure your baking stars shine bright, keep these tips in mind:
– Select ripe strawberries for maximum flavor and sweetness.
– Avoid overmixing the batter; this keeps your donuts fluffy.
– Halfway through baking, consider rotating the pan for even cooking on all sides.

Variations

Feel free to play around with your ingredients! Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
– Swap out strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a different flavor twist.
– Add mini chocolate chips for a little richness.
– Create a lemon glaze for a refreshing citrusy twist.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftover donuts, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating or freezing them, but keep in mind that the glaze might lose its perfect texture when thawed.

Pairing Ideas

Don’t stop at just enjoying them plain. Elevate your strawberry cake donuts by serving them with whipped cream, fanned fresh fruit, or even a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries work too! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before pureeing.

2. How do I know when my donuts are done?
Insert a toothpick into a donut; if it comes out clean, they’re ready to be taken out of the oven.

3. Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Sure! Simply substitute the flours with a gluten-free blend that’s designed for baking.

4. How should I store my donuts?
Keep your donuts stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 days.

5. Can I add frosting instead of glaze?
Absolutely! Feel free to frost them with your favorite icing for an extra sweet touch.

Strawberry cake donuts make for a fun family baking activity and are sure to bring joy to any occasion. Their delightful strawberry flavor and fluffy texture are irresistible, making them a hit among kids and adults alike. Whether enjoyed on a quiet morning or served at a gathering, these donuts are sure to become a beloved recipe in your baking repertoire.

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