Fresh Strawberry Donuts with Strawberry Glaze Recipe

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The Comfort of Fresh Strawberry Donuts with Strawberry Glaze Recipe

There’s something truly magical about biting into a freshly baked donut that’s bursting with the flavor of ripe strawberries. I’m talking about that golden, velvety crumb with just the right hint of sweetness and a strawberry glaze that’s lightly crisped on top. When I first tried making this Fresh Strawberry Donuts with Strawberry Glaze Recipe, I was instantly captivated by how achievable it was and how much joy it brought to my weekend mornings. You’ll notice immediately that these donuts are a comforting blend of soft and slightly snappy textures. The fresh strawberry puree swirls through the batter like a fragrant summer breeze, while the glaze adds just enough sticky sweetness to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting started, I promise this recipe will feel like a warm hug straight from your kitchen. Making these donuts is about slowing down, savoring the process, and allowing simple, honest ingredients to shine. You might even find that these become your go-to weekend treat or a charming way to brighten up any brunch with friends and family. Ready to dive in and create something truly special? Let’s start!

Ingredient Guide

• Unsalted butter (1 tbsp): Adds richness and tenderness; softened to blend smoothly.
• Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the batter; you can reduce slightly if you prefer a less sweet donut.
• Large egg (1): Gives structure and helps bind everything together.
• Pure vanilla extract (¾ tsp): Enhances the warm flavors—feel free to go up to 1 tsp for extra aroma.
• Buttermilk (½ cup): Adds tang and moisture, keeping the donuts tender; regular milk plus a splash of lemon juice works in a pinch.
• Cake flour (¾ cup) + All-purpose flour (¾ cup): Cake flour ensures a softer crumb while all-purpose adds structure—together they balance perfectly.
• Baking soda (½ tsp) & Baking powder (1 tsp): Provide lift and lightness for those fluffy donuts.
• Salt (¼ tsp): Essential to round out sweetness and flavor depth.
• Fresh strawberries (12-15, about 1 cup pureed): The star ingredient—vibrant, juicy, and natural sweetness that shines through in both the batter and glaze.

Prep Before You Begin

When coming up to this Fresh Strawberry Donuts with Strawberry Glaze Recipe, one of my best tips is to have everything prepped and ready before you start mixing. Wash and hull those strawberries first—you’ll want that puree smooth and vibrant. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s perfectly hot when you’re ready to bake. Don’t forget to grease your donut pans thoroughly for easy removal of those golden beauties.

• Donut pans: Essential for shaping your donuts perfectly and baking them evenly without frying.
• Mixing bowls: One for wet ingredients, another for dry, keeps everything organized.
• Blender or food processor: To puree those fresh strawberries into smooth, luscious liquid.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise balance of flavors and rise.
• Cooling rack: So your donuts cool properly and the glaze sets without becoming soggy.

How to Make Fresh Strawberry Donuts with Strawberry Glaze Recipe

1. Prepare the strawberry puree. Wash and hull 12-15 fresh strawberries, then blend them until perfectly smooth. Set this aside to use in both the batter and glaze. I love how the aroma intensifies as you puree—so fresh!
2. Cream butter and sugar. In a large bowl, beat together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You’ll notice the texture becoming almost cloud-like; this helps create that tender crumb in your donuts.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until fully incorporated. This step gives the donuts body and a lovely vanilla warmth.
4. Add buttermilk. Gradually mix in the buttermilk—this adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.
5. Whisk dry ingredients. In another bowl, combine cake flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisking aerates them for an even rise.

6. Combine dry and wet ingredients. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing here to keep your donuts tender. Then carefully fold in the strawberry puree. The batter should be thick yet pourable—thick enough to hold shape but smooth enough to pipe.
7. Prepare your pans and bake. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if not already done. Grease your donut pans thoroughly. Spoon or pipe the batter into each cavity, filling about two-thirds full—this prevents spilling and gives you that classic donut ring.
8. Bake the donuts. Bake for 12-15 minutes, watching for a golden hue and that classic springy feel when lightly pressed. Insert a toothpick into one donut—if it comes out clean, they’re ready. Let them cool in the pans for 5-10 minutes, then carefully invert them onto a wire rack to cool completely. This little cooling break is key to keep the donuts from getting soggy under the glaze.
9. Mix the glaze. Combine reserved strawberry puree with powdered sugar until you achieve a thick but pourable consistency. If it’s too thick, add a teaspoon of milk or water. Stir in vanilla extract if you like an extra flavor punch.
10. Glaze the donuts. Once your donuts are completely cool, dip the tops into the strawberry glaze. Set them back on your rack and allow the glaze to set for 15-20 minutes. The glaze will lightly crisp up, balancing the soft interior perfectly.

Creative Variations for Fresh Strawberry Donuts with Strawberry Glaze Recipe

• Add a handful of finely chopped fresh mint or basil to the batter for a refreshing herbal twist.
• Season your glaze with a splash of lemon juice or zest to brighten the strawberry flavor.
• Swap the strawberry puree for blueberry or raspberry puree for a different berry experience.
• Sprinkle the glaze with toasted coconut flakes or crushed pistachios for texture and a nutty finish.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a warm, subtly spiced donut.
• Top glazed donuts with tiny fresh strawberry slices for an elegant, fruity presentation.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

• Storage: Keep your glazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
• Refrigeration: If you prefer, store leftover donuts in the fridge for up to 5 days, but note the glaze may soften.
• Freezing: Wrap donuts individually in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag—freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thawing & reheating: Let frozen donuts thaw at room temperature, then warm gently in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for 5-7 minutes to revive softness without melting the glaze.

Fresh Strawberry Donuts with Strawberry Glaze Recipe FAQs

• Can I make these donuts without a donut pan? You can use a muffin tin lined with parchment or silicone molds, but the shape won’t be as classic. Adjust baking time accordingly.
• What’s the best way to hull strawberries quickly? Use a small paring knife or a strawberry huller tool by gently twisting at the green top to remove the stem and core cleanly.
• Can I substitute buttermilk? Yes! Use regular milk mixed with 1 tbsp of lemon juice or white vinegar, left to sit for 5 minutes before using to mimic buttermilk’s tang.
• Why is my glaze too runny or too thick? Add more powdered sugar if it’s too thin; add a little milk or water in very small amounts if it’s too thick. The goal is a consistency that clings but still drips slowly.
• Can I fry these donuts instead of baking? This recipe is designed for baking. Fried donuts need different batters and handling due to oil absorption and frying temperatures.

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