Baked Raspberry Donuts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Baked Raspberry Donuts are the perfect balance of sweetness and fruitiness, with a soft and fluffy interior. The addition of raspberry jam both inside the donut and in the icing adds a burst of flavor that complements the light, cake-like texture. The best part is that they are baked rather than fried, making them a slightly healthier choice without sacrificing flavor or texture. Whether you’re craving a treat for brunch or want to enjoy a sweet snack, these donuts are sure to satisfy your cravings!

Ingredients

For the Raspberry Donuts:

• 1 cup (240 mL) lukewarm water (body temperature, see notes)
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 6 tablespoons (90 g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 3 to 4 cups (360 g – 480 g) all-purpose flour, plus more for kneading and shaping
• ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons instant yeast (see notes for using active dry yeast)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ⅔ cup raspberry jam

For the Raspberry Icing:

• 1 cup (130 g) powdered sugar (plus more for dusting on top if desired)
• 2 teaspoons raspberry jam
• 1 to 2 tablespoons water

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the lukewarm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the instant yeast over the top and stir gently. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. If you’re using active dry yeast, follow the same process, but you may need to let it sit for a few extra minutes to activate.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter. Add the activated yeast mixture and vegetable oil. Stir to combine.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour (starting with 3 cups) and salt to the wet ingredients. Mix to form a dough. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a little at a time, until you can knead it without it sticking to your hands.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if necessary.
5. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Shape the Donuts:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan or lightly coat it with cooking spray.
2. Shape the Donuts: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out to about ½-inch thickness. Using a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large, one small), cut out the donut shapes. Place the donuts into the prepared donut pan.
3. Let the Donuts Rise Again: Cover the shaped donuts with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes.

3. Bake the Donuts:

1. Bake the Donuts: Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are lightly golden on the edges and spring back when touched.
2. Cool: Once baked, remove the donuts from the pan and let them cool on a wire rack.

4. Make the Raspberry Icing:

1. Prepare the Icing: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, raspberry jam, and 1 tablespoon of water. Add more water, one teaspoon at a time, if you need to reach your desired icing consistency. The icing should be thick but still pourable.
2. Dip the Donuts: Once the donuts are completely cooled, dip the tops of each donut into the raspberry icing, ensuring it is evenly coated. If desired, dust the tops with extra powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Let the icing set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these delicious Baked Raspberry Donuts fresh or store them in an airtight container for later!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe makes approximately 12 donuts.
• Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus rise time)
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 2 to 2.5 hours (including rise times)

Variations

• Fruit Filling: Swap out the raspberry jam for another fruit jam or preserve, such as blueberry, strawberry, or blackberry, to create a different flavor.
• Glazed Donuts: If you prefer a simple glaze, you can make a glaze using powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice instead of raspberry jam.
• Vegan Version: Use a flax egg or another egg substitute and dairy-free butter to make these donuts vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the donuts in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to bring back their soft texture, or place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast. Just make sure to activate it in lukewarm water with sugar before adding it to the dough.

2. Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate it after the first rise. In the morning, shape the donuts and let them rise before baking.

3. Can I use frozen raspberries for the jam?

Yes, you can use frozen raspberries. Just thaw and drain them before using to prevent excess moisture in the jam.

4. Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?

Yes, you can form the donuts by hand and bake them on a baking sheet. Just shape the dough into rounds and bake for the same amount of time.

5. How do I know when the donuts are done baking?

The donuts should be golden around the edges and spring back when lightly touched. You can also insert a toothpick into the center of one donut to check for doneness—it should come out clean.

6. Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes, you can freeze the baked donuts before icing them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer bag. Thaw before icing and serving.

7. Can I make the icing without raspberry jam?

Yes, you can substitute raspberry jam with other fruit jams, or use lemon juice and powdered sugar for a simple glaze.

8. How do I make the donuts fluffier?

Ensure the dough has enough rise time and is kneaded well for a smooth texture. Adding a bit more flour if the dough is too sticky will also help create fluffier donuts.

9. Can I add filling to the donuts?

You can add raspberry jam or other fillings to the center of the donuts before baking by making a small indent in the dough and spooning in the jam.

10. Can I make mini donuts?

Yes, you can use a mini donut pan for smaller-sized donuts. Adjust the baking time to 7-9 minutes.

Conclusion

Baked Raspberry Donuts are a wonderfully sweet and flavorful treat, perfect for any occasion. The combination of soft, fluffy donut dough, sweet raspberry jam, and a luscious raspberry icing makes for a delicious and satisfying snack. These donuts are easy to make and perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea. Whether you’re making them for breakfast, brunch, or a special treat, these Baked Raspberry Donuts are sure to be a hit!

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