Name: Lemon Donuts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened oat milk or almond milk (regular milk will also work); ½ cup lemon juice; 1 cup sugar; ¼ cup melted regular or vegan butter; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional); 2 cups regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour (If gluten-free, use King Arthur Measure for Measure gluten-free flour); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon unsweetened almond milk or oat milk (regular milk will also work); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 22 reviews

If you’re craving something bright, zesty, and just downright irresistible, this Lemon Donuts Recipe is going to become your new go-to treat. These donuts are soft and fluffy with a perfect citrusy punch that wakes up your taste buds. The glaze adds a sweet tangy finish that makes every bite melt in your mouth. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, these lemon donuts bring sunshine to your table in the most delightful way.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a close-up of a stack of glazed donuts with four visible donuts. Each donut has a soft, light golden-brown base covered by a thick, shiny, white glaze that drips slightly down the sides. The texture of the donuts looks soft and fluffy, contrasted by the smooth and glossy finish of the glaze. The donuts are stacked on a white marbled surface, with some glaze reflecting light, giving a fresh and appetizing look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Lemon Donuts Recipe lies in its simplicity — every ingredient is chosen to enhance flavor, texture, and that lovely golden color. From the creamy milk to the zingy lemon juice, everything works together to create donuts that are light, moist, and full of personality.

1 cup unsweetened oat or almond milk: Adds creaminess without overpowering the lemon flavor, but regular milk works just as well.
½ cup lemon juice: The star player for that fresh and tangy citrus bite.
1 cup sugar: Balances the tartness and helps create a tender crumb.
¼ cup melted regular or vegan butter: Brings richness and moisture, critical for soft muffins like texture.
1 ½ teaspoon baking powder: A rising agent that makes these donuts fluffy and light.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the lemon juice to give that perfect lift and lightness.
1 teaspoon lemon extract (optional): Boosts the lemon kick if you want an extra punch of citrus aroma.
2 cups regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour: The base of the donuts; if gluten-free, King Arthur Measure for Measure is recommended for best results.
Lemon Glaze Ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon unsweetened almond or oat milk (regular milk also works), 1 tablespoon lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon vanilla to top off the tangy sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Lemon Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Begin by combining the lemon juice, melted butter, your choice of milk, and sugar in a bowl. Stir gently, and you’ll notice a bit of fizzing owing to the reaction between baking soda and acidic lemon juice — that’s a great sign! Feel free to add the lemon extract here if you want your donuts to have a more pronounced citrus aroma. This wet mix sets the stage for the perfect flavor base.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

Next, whisk together the baking powder, baking soda, and flour right into your wet mix. Careful not to overmix — just blend until everything comes together in a thick, luscious batter. Overmixing can make the donuts dense, and we definitely want to keep them light and airy.

Step 3: Prepare and Bake

Grease your silicone donut molds lightly so nothing sticks, and carefully fill each mold — remember not to overfill, as the batter will rise. Slide the tray into your preheated oven set at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, and let these beautiful donuts bake for about 25 minutes. They should come out golden, fluffy, and perfectly springy to the touch.

Step 4: Whip Up the Lemon Glaze

While the donuts are baking, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, lemon juice, and vanilla extract for the glaze. Stir until smooth and glossy. This glaze will be the sweet, tangy crowning glory that makes these lemon donuts truly irresistible.

Step 5: Glaze and Cool

Once the donuts have cooled enough to handle, gently pop them out of the molds and spoon or drizzle your homemade lemon glaze over the top. This finishing touch adds that beautiful sheen and bursts of flavor in every bite.

How to Serve Lemon Donuts Recipe

The image shows a stack of glazed doughnuts on a white plate with a white marbled surface in the background. The doughnuts have a soft and fluffy texture with a light golden-brown color, covered by a shiny white glaze that looks smooth and slightly translucent. The top doughnut is missing a bite, revealing a moist and spongy inside that is pale yellow. The glaze appears evenly coated, dripping slightly at the edges, highlighting the round shape and central hole of the doughnuts. The lighting captures the glossy surface of the glaze and the soft interior clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle some finely grated lemon zest or crushed pistachios over the glaze while it’s still wet. These little accents not only add color and texture but also enhance the fresh, citrus charm of your lemon donuts.

Side Dishes

Serve these donuts alongside a cup of hot tea, sparkling lemonade, or even chilled iced coffee for a refreshing contrast. Light, fruity sides like fresh berries or a citrus fruit salad play wonderfully alongside the bright notes of these donuts.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking a few lemon donuts on a pretty plate with edible flowers around the edges for a charming brunch centerpiece. Alternatively, cut them in half and spread a dollop of lemon curd or cream cheese frosting between slices for delightful mini lemon donut sandwiches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Lemon donuts store beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh without drying out the delicate crumb.

Freezing

Want to make these in advance? Freeze unglazed donuts by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months, ready for whenever your lemon craving hits.

Reheating

To enjoy your lemon donuts fresh after freezing or storage, warm them gently in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. This revives their softness perfectly, just like freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of oat or almond milk?

Yes! Regular cow’s milk works just fine and will still give you moist and tender donuts with that lovely lemon flavor shining through.

Is it possible to make these donuts vegan?

Absolutely. Using plant-based milk and vegan butter is all you need to keep this recipe vegan-friendly without sacrificing taste or texture.

What if I don’t have lemon extract — should I skip it?

The lemon extract is optional but highly recommended if you want a more intense lemon aroma. If you don’t have it, your donuts will still be delicious, thanks to the fresh lemon juice.

Can I substitute another type of flour?

For best results, stick with regular or King Arthur Measure for Measure gluten-free flour. Other flours like almond or coconut will change the texture and won’t give the same light, fluffy lemon donuts.

How do I prevent donuts from sticking to the molds?

Lightly greasing silicone molds with a bit of butter or non-stick spray usually does the trick. Make sure to let the donuts cool slightly before trying to unmold them to keep their beautiful shape intact.

Final Thoughts

This Lemon Donuts Recipe is a bright burst of joy that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or treating yourself anytime you need a little pick-me-up. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a batch of warm, zesty donuts that feel special but come together so easily. I can’t wait for you to try making these and delight in the sunshine flavor of homemade lemon donuts.