π© Oven Doughnuts Recipe β Fluffy, Baked & Irresistibly Delicious π©
π Introduction:
Thereβs something undeniably comforting about a warm, sweet doughnut β soft, fluffy inside with a golden exterior and a perfect glaze. Traditionally deep-fried, doughnuts have undergone an evolution that brings us to this healthier and equally indulgent oven-baked version. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an anytime treat, these oven doughnuts offer the joy of homemade bakery-style sweets without the excess oil.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying this for the first time, these Oven Doughnuts will be a favorite in your home β and theyβre so versatile with toppings that every bite is a new adventure.
π Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup whole milk, warmed (110Β°F/43Β°C)
- 2 1/4 tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Vegetable oil (for greasing pans, not for frying)
Optional Toppings:
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla glaze
- Cinnamon sugar
- Chocolate ganache
- Sprinkles, crushed nuts, or shredded coconut
π½οΈ Instructions & Methods:
1. Activate the Yeast:
- Warm the milk to around 110Β°F (lukewarm, not hot).
- Add the yeast and 1 tablespoon of sugar to the milk. Stir and let it sit for 5β10 minutes until frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, remaining sugar, softened butter, and salt.
- Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until combined.
- Gradually add flour, one cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead & Rise:
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 6β8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1β1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
4. Shape the Doughnuts:
- Punch down the dough and roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness.
- Use a doughnut cutter (or two round cutters: one 3-inch and one 1-inch) to cut out doughnuts and holes.
- Place on a parchment-lined baking tray. Cover and let rise again for 30β45 minutes.
5. Bake the Doughnuts:
- Preheat the oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C).
- Bake for 8β10 minutes or until puffed and lightly golden (do not overbake β they should remain soft).
- Remove and let cool slightly before glazing.
6. Add Toppings:
- Dip warm doughnuts in glaze, cinnamon sugar, or dust with powdered sugar.
- Let set on a wire rack.
π°οΈ History of Doughnuts:
Doughnuts are believed to have originated with Dutch settlers in early America, who made βolykoeksβ (oil cakes). Over time, doughnuts evolved from fried balls of dough into ring-shaped treats, made popular in the U.S. by the 20th century. Baked doughnuts are a modern, health-conscious twist that gained popularity in the early 2000s as more people sought alternatives to deep-fried foods.
π Benefits of Baked Doughnuts:
- Less Oil, Less Guilt β Lower fat and calories compared to deep-fried versions.
- Homemade Freshness β No preservatives or additives.
- Versatile Flavors β Easily customizable with countless toppings and glazes.
- Kid-Friendly Activity β Fun to shape, bake, and decorate with family.
- Less Mess β No splattering oil or deep fryer clean-up.
π οΈ Formation & Serving Ideas:
- Classic Rings β Traditional doughnut shape.
- Filled Doughnuts β Skip the center hole, bake, and inject with jam, custard, or Nutella.
- Mini Doughnuts β Use a mini cutter for bite-sized treats.
- Doughnut Holes β Bake the cut-out centers as poppable snacks.
Serve warm with coffee, tea, or cold milk for the ultimate comfort experience.
π§ Nutrition (Per One Doughnut with Glaze Estimate):
- Calories: 220β260
- Carbs: 35g
- Sugar: 14g
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
(values vary depending on topping and size)
π Conclusion & Lovers of This Recipe:
This recipe is a dream come true for doughnut lovers who want the indulgence of a bakery treat without frying. Whether youβre a health-conscious baker, a weekend treat enthusiast, or a parent making fun desserts for your kids β these oven doughnuts deliver.
π Lovers Will Include:
- The Classic Sweet Tooth β Obsessed with soft, sugary bites.
- The Home Baker β Looking for simple, rewarding recipes.
- The Health-Conscious β Enjoying treats with fewer calories.
- The Creative Soul β Loves customizing glaze and toppings.
- The Morning Brunch Host β Serving smiles with every bite.
π© Final Method Recap:
Make β Rise β Shape β Rise Again β Bake β Glaze β Devour.
Would you like a version with chocolate dough, jam-filled centers, or maybe even gluten-free? Just ask, and letβs keep baking magic together! π©β¨