Description
These Glazed Orange Poppy Seed Donuts are a delightful twist on classic baked donuts, featuring a zesty orange flavor paired with crunchy poppy seeds. Light, fluffy, and coated in a sweet orange glaze, they make a perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack. Baked instead of fried, these donuts are easier to prepare and less greasy, delivering a tender crumb with vibrant citrus notes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 Tablespoons poppy seeds
- 1 pinch of salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons (30g) butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) milk*
- 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 Tablespoon (15 ml) orange juice, freshly squeezed
- 1 Tablespoon orange zest
Glaze
- 2 Tablespoons butter, melted
- 3/4 cup (90g) icing sugar
- 2 Tablespoons milk
- 1 Tablespoon orange juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Spray a donut pan with non-stick spray and set aside to ensure the donuts do not stick during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, poppy seeds, and a pinch of salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and seeds.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk melted butter, egg, granulated sugar, milk, sour cream, vanilla extract, freshly squeezed orange juice, and orange zest until fully combined. This mixture provides moisture and flavor to the donuts.
- Make the Batter: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the batter thick but tender for a light texture.
- Fill the Donut Pan: Transfer the batter into a large piping bag, cut off the tip, and pipe the batter into each cavity of the donut pan until about 3/4 full. This helps achieve uniform donuts without spilling batter.
- Bake the Donuts: Bake for 9–10 minutes or until edges turn lightly golden. After baking, allow donuts to cool in the pan for about two minutes before transferring to a wire rack set over parchment paper to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze: Whisk together melted butter, icing sugar, milk, freshly squeezed orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined. The glaze adds a smooth, sweet citrus coating on the donuts.
- Glaze the Donuts: Dip each cooled donut into the glaze fully, then place back on the wire rack to let the glaze set before serving. Enjoy donuts fresh, preferably the same day for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh orange juice and zest for maximum citrus flavor.
- If you prefer a dairy-free version, substitute milk and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
- Do not overmix the batter to avoid dense donuts; a few lumps are fine.
- Use a piping bag for neat donut shapes; alternatively, spoon the batter carefully into the pan.
- These donuts are best enjoyed the same day as the glaze is freshest then.