Vanilla Sugar Baked Donuts Recipe

If you’ve been hunting for a dessert that’s airy, subtly sweet, and absolutely delightful, you’ve got to try these Vanilla Sugar Baked Donuts. They are light as a cloud, infused with a tender vanilla essence, and finished with a sparkling vanilla sugar coating that adds just the right touch of sweetness and crunch. These donuts bring that classic bakery joy right into your kitchen without any deep-frying hassle, making them a perfect treat for breakfast, afternoon tea, or a cozy dessert craving.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind Vanilla Sugar Baked Donuts is in their simple, wholesome ingredients that each play an important role in delivering texture, flavor, and that irresistible donut charm. From the fluffiness created by the baking powder to the buttery richness and fragrant vanilla, every addition counts.

• Flour (250 g): The foundation, giving your donuts structure and that classic tender crumb.
• Sugar (60 g): Sweetens gently and helps with browning for a golden finish.
• Baking powder (1 tsp): Ensures a soft, airy rise without heaviness.
• Baking soda (1/2 tsp): Adds a light lift and balances acidity.
• Salt (1/4 tsp): A pinch to enhance all the flavors beautifully.
• Egg (1): Binds ingredients and adds richness for a tender bite.
• Milk (125 ml): Moistens the batter and helps achieve a delicate texture.
• Melted butter (50 g): Brings buttery flavor and moistness to every donut.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): The star flavor, giving a warm, aromatic depth.
• Coating – sugar + vanilla: A sparkling vanilla sugar mix for that perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Vanilla Sugar Baked Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by setting your oven to 180°C to ensure it’s fully heated when your batter is ready. This step is crucial because the hot oven helps your donuts rise perfectly and develop a tender crust.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents so each donut rises evenly and has consistent flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Take a separate bowl and beat the egg lightly. Then add the milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, stirring until everything is well combined. The melted butter adds moisture and richness, while the vanilla infuses the batter with that signature warmth.

Step 4: Fold Wet into Dry

Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together. Be careful not to overmix; you want to combine until just blended to keep the donuts light and airy rather than dense.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts

Carefully spoon the batter into a greased or silicone donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until they are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Resist the temptation to overbake so they remain tender.

Step 6: Coat with Vanilla Sugar

As soon as the donuts come out of the oven, keep them warm and roll each one in a mix of sugar and vanilla powder. This extra step adds a dazzling sparkle and enhances the delicate vanilla flavor you’ll love in every bite.

How to Serve Vanilla Sugar Baked Donuts

Garnishes

While the sparkling vanilla sugar coating is magnificent on its own, adding a few fresh garnishes like edible flowers, a dusting of powdered sugar, or even a drizzle of vanilla glaze can raise the presentation and flavor to a festival-worthy level. A sprinkle of cinnamon also pairs wonderfully with the vanilla notes.

Side Dishes

Vanilla Sugar Baked Donuts shine as a sweet treat alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. For an indulgent brunch, serve them with fresh berries, yogurt, or a dollop of whipped cream. The light texture balances beautifully with creamy or fruity sides without overwhelming the palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful by stacking the donuts as a mini tower dusted with powdered sugar or stringing them on a festive donut garland for a party. You can also slice and layer certain fillings or jams inside the donut holes for a surprise bite. These donuts truly invite creativity and fun in presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Vanilla Sugar Baked Donuts left, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them sealed prevents them from drying out and helps maintain their softness. Avoid the fridge, which can stiffen the delicate crumb.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the donuts by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can keep well frozen for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature when ready, and they’ll taste just as fresh.

Reheating

To bring those Vanilla Sugar Baked Donuts back to life, warm them in the oven at 150°C for about 5 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This gentle warming refreshes their softness and revives the vanilla sugar coating’s sparkle.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of flour for these donuts?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend if needed, but the texture might slightly change. Be sure to check that your blend contains xanthan gum or similar for structure.

Is it possible to make these donuts vegan?

To make these donuts vegan, replace the egg with a flax or chia egg and use plant-based milk and butter alternatives. The texture will remain soft, but a slight change in flavor is expected due to ingredient differences.

How do I prevent my baked donuts from being dense?

Overmixing the batter can cause dense donuts. Mix just until ingredients are combined, and make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the proper rise.

Can I add other flavors to the vanilla sugar coating?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cinnamon, nutmeg, or even citrus zest with the sugar and vanilla to customize your coating according to your taste preference.

What’s the best way to make sure the donuts come out of the pan cleanly?

Grease the donut pan thoroughly with butter or oil, or use a non-stick spray. Let the donuts cool slightly before removing, and gently loosen the edges with a butter knife if needed to keep their perfect shape.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope these Vanilla Sugar Baked Donuts become your new go-to treat when you want something light, cozy, and sweet. They’re easy enough for beginners but special enough to impress any guest. So roll up your sleeves, enjoy the aroma of vanilla in your kitchen, and bring a batch of these delightful donuts to your table soon!