Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze

Fried until golden and dunked in sweet blueberry glaze, these Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze bring all the nostalgic, bakery-style goodness home. Perfect for breakfast or as a delightful dessert, these donuts are sure to impress at any gathering or brunch. Their tender cake-like texture and vibrant blueberry flavor make them a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these donuts are perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of fresh blueberries and sweet glaze creates a mouthwatering treat that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a breakfast option, a brunch centerpiece, or a sweet snack any time of day.
• Perfect for Sharing: Yielding 25 servings, these donuts are great for gatherings, parties, or just sharing with friends and family.
• Fun to Customize: Feel free to experiment with different types of fruit glazes or additions like nuts or spices for unique flavor twists.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your delicious blueberry cake donuts, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Wire rack
• Paper towels
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Slotted spoon
• Spring-loaded scoop

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: Ideal for frying as it retains heat well and ensures even cooking.
• Wire rack: Allows excess oil to drain off your donuts while keeping them crisp instead of soggy.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without making a mess.

Ingredients

Fried until golden and dunked in sweet blueberry glaze, these blueberry cake donuts bring all the nostalgic, bakery-style goodness home. They’re best enjoyed warm and fresh from the fryer!

For the Donuts

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (See notes below for measuring)
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 4 tablespoons salted European butter (melted)
• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
• 2/3 cup frozen wild blueberries
• Neutral frying oil, like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil

For the Glaze

• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup + 2-3 tablespoons whole milk
• 1/4 cup freeze-dried blueberry powder
• 1 teaspoon blueberry emulsion or extract

How to Make Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, buttermilk, egg, sour cream, and vanilla until smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Mixtures

Fold the dry ingredients into the bowl of wet ingredients until almost combined. Then gently fold in the frozen wild blueberries until just combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Step 4: Heat the Oil

Fill a Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with about 2 inches of oil. Heat it to 355°F (180°C).

Step 5: Set Up for Frying

Place a wire rack over a paper towel-lined baking sheet to catch excess oil from fried donuts. Set aside.

Step 6: Fry the Donuts

Using a spring-loaded two-tablespoon scoop, carefully drop dough into hot oil. Fry for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Use a slotted wooden spoon to transfer them to the wire rack. Fry in batches of about 6 to 8 at a time.

Step 7: Make the Glaze

In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, freeze-dried blueberry powder, milk, and blueberry emulsion or extract until smooth. Microwave for about 1 minute until warm and runny.

Step 8: Glaze the Donuts

Dip each donut in the glaze until fully covered. Use a slotted spoon to remove it from the glaze; tap off any excess glaze before returning them to the wire rack. Enjoy your freshly made Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze!

How to Serve Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze

Blueberry cake donuts with blueberry glaze are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these donuts shine in any setting. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

For Breakfast

• Pair these donuts with a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with a cup of coffee or tea to enhance the rich flavors.

As a Dessert

• Top with whipped cream or ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Drizzle additional blueberry sauce over the top for extra sweetness.

At a Brunch Gathering

• Arrange them on a beautiful platter alongside other pastries for a stunning display.
• Provide assorted toppings like sprinkles or crushed nuts for guests to customize their donuts.

As Party Favors

• Package individual donuts in clear bags tied with ribbons for an adorable takeaway.
• Include recipe cards so guests can recreate the magic at home.

How to Perfect Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze

To achieve the best blueberry cake donuts with blueberry glaze, follow these essential tips that will help you master this delicious recipe.

• Chill the dough: Refrigerating the dough helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to handle when frying.
• Use cold ingredients: Cold buttermilk and eggs lead to fluffier donuts. Let them sit out briefly before mixing.
• Maintain oil temperature: Ensure your frying oil stays at 355°F for even cooking and perfect texture.
• Do not overcrowd the fryer: Fry only a few donuts at a time to avoid lowering the oil temperature and uneven cooking.
• Whisk glaze thoroughly: Mix the glaze until smooth and free of lumps for a perfect finish on each donut.
• Enjoy fresh: These donuts are best served warm, right after glazing for that delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze

These blueberry cake donuts pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some options that complement their sweetness beautifully.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the donuts.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and berries for a healthy contrast to the sugary treats.
3. Scrambled Eggs – Lightly seasoned scrambled eggs provide protein and make for a hearty brunch option.
4. Hash Browns – Crispy hash browns create a satisfying crunch that complements soft donuts perfectly.
5. Maple Syrup – Offer pure maple syrup on the side as an alternative dipping sauce for added sweetness.
6. Coffee Cake – A slice of coffee cake enhances your brunch spread while echoing the blueberry theme.
7. Tea Selection – Provide an assortment of herbal or black teas to balance out the sweetness of your meal.
8. Cinnamon Rolls – For those who love sweet treats, cinnamon rolls can be a delightful addition to your dessert table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making blueberry cake donuts at home can be delightful, but a few common mistakes can hinder your success. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not measuring flour correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for the best texture. Use the spoon-and-level method to prevent dense donuts.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the donuts tough. Mix until just combined and fold in blueberries gently.
• Incorrect frying temperature: Ensure oil is at 355°F for even frying. A thermometer is helpful; if it’s too hot or cold, the donuts may not cook properly.
• Skipping refrigeration time: Chilling the dough helps it firm up, leading to better-shaped donuts. Don’t skip this step!
• Ignoring glaze consistency: The glaze should be smooth and slightly runny. Adjust with milk or powdered sugar until you achieve the right consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover donuts in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 2 days in the fridge.

Freezing Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze

• Place cooled donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat donuts for about 5 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one donut at a time for about 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making blueberry cake donuts with blueberry glaze:

How do I ensure my Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze are fluffy?

To keep them fluffy, avoid overmixing your batter and ensure your baking powder is fresh.

Can I use fresh blueberries instead of frozen?

Yes, you can use fresh blueberries. Just make sure they are well-coated in flour to prevent sinking during baking.

How do I customize my Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze?

You can add lemon zest or almond extract for extra flavor or substitute different fruits based on your preference.

Why are my donuts greasy?

Greasy donuts may result from frying oil that’s not hot enough. Always check the temperature before frying.

Final Thoughts

These blueberry cake donuts with blueberry glaze are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them by adding different flavors or toppings. Try making them today for breakfast or as a sweet treat!