Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts Recipe
If you have a soft spot for fresh, fruity treats with just the right amount of sweetness and fluffiness, then you are absolutely going to adore this Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts Recipe. Imagine biting into a pillowy, golden doughnut infused with the natural juiciness of ripe strawberries and a hint of tangy buttermilk, all coated in a luscious strawberry glaze that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe turns simple ingredients into an irresistible breakfast or dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside, perfect for brightening up any day and sharing with your favorite people.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts Recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a very special role in creating a doughnut that’s tender, flavorful, and just sweet enough. From the flour that gives structure to the fresh strawberries that bring vibrant bursts of taste and color, these components harmonize perfectly for a home-baked delight you’ll want to make again and again.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for fluffy, tender doughnuts.
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder: Adds lift to make each bite light and airy.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to give that perfect rise and slight tang.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough just right without overpowering the strawberries.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Adds rich flavor and moistness to the dough.
- 1 large egg: Binds everything together for a smooth texture.
- ½ cup buttermilk: Brings tenderness and a subtle tang to the dough.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh strawberries: Fresh and juicy bursts that make these doughnuts truly special.
- Vegetable oil for frying: Essential for achieving that crispy, golden exterior.
- For the glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2–3 tablespoons mashed strawberries, ½ teaspoon lemon juice—all combined to create a sweet, fruity topping that perfectly complements the doughnuts.
How to Make Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This dry mix sets the structure of the doughnuts and ensures an even rise during cooking. Taking a little care here helps make sure your doughnuts come out light and airy every time.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, melted butter, egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract together until smooth. This mixture adds moisture, richness, and a lovely depth of flavor that balances the tangy and sweet notes in the doughnuts.
Step 3: Form the Dough
Gently fold your dry ingredients into the wet mixture, taking care not to overmix; just stir until combined. Then, carefully fold in the finely chopped fresh strawberries, making sure they’re evenly distributed without bruising them. This step ensures the dough has a tender crumb with little bursts of luscious strawberry in every bite.
Step 4: Shape the Doughnuts
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to about ½-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or a round cutter with a smaller cutter for the hole to cut out your doughnuts. This creates the classic doughnut shape that’s perfect for frying and glazing.
Step 5: Fry to Golden Perfection
Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the doughnuts in batches, about 1 to 2 minutes per side, until they are beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. This method gives you that delightful crispy outside and tender inside everyone loves.
Step 6: Glaze Your Masterpieces
Whisk together powdered sugar, mashed strawberries, and lemon juice until smooth to make the luscious glaze. While the doughnuts are still warm, dip them into the glaze or drizzle it generously over the top. Let them set for a few minutes so the glaze can harden slightly, sealing in all that juicy strawberry goodness.
How to Serve Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped fresh strawberries or a little dusting of powdered sugar adds an inviting finishing touch to these doughnuts. You can also toss on some edible flower petals or tiny mint leaves for an elegant, fresh twist that’s sure to impress your guests.
Side Dishes
Pair your strawberry buttermilk doughnuts with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a frothy cappuccino for a perfect morning treat. For a more indulgent option, serve alongside a bowl of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream infused with a hint of strawberry syrup. These pairings enhance the doughnuts without competing with their vibrant fruit flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch, arrange your Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts Recipe on a tiered cake stand with fresh berries and small bowls of assorted toppings like mini chocolate chips, crushed nuts, or coconut flakes. You can even thread skewers with mini doughnuts for a delightful party platter that invites everyone to grab and go.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any doughnuts leftover (which is rare, but it happens), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and flavorful, although they are truly at their best the day they are made.
Freezing
To enjoy these doughnuts later, freeze them without glaze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature and then add the strawberry glaze fresh for maximum flavor and freshness.
Reheating
Gently reheat your doughnuts in a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to revive their soft texture and bring back that freshly made warmth. Avoid microwaving, as that can make the doughnuts tough or rubbery.
FAQs
Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
Absolutely! For a lighter option, bake the doughnuts in a doughnut pan at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes until golden and cooked through. Baking results in a slightly different texture but still delivers fantastic flavor and tenderness.
What kind of strawberries work best?
Use very ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor and vibrant color in both the dough and the glaze. Fresh in-season strawberries will elevate the taste and make the doughnuts irresistibly fruity.
Can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
Yes, adjust the amount of mashed strawberries or powdered sugar to reach your desired glaze consistency. Add more powdered sugar to thicken, or a splash of lemon juice or mashed berries to thin it out and create a smoother finish.
How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature?
Using a candy or deep-fry thermometer is the easiest way to monitor oil temperature. You’re aiming for 350°F (175°C) for perfectly cooked, golden doughnuts. If the oil is too hot, the doughnuts will brown too quickly outside but remain raw inside; too cool, and they’ll soak up oil and become greasy.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
While fresh strawberries are ideal, you can use thawed frozen strawberries if needed. Make sure to drain any excess liquid well before chopping and adding them to the dough to prevent sogginess.
Final Thoughts
When you bake these Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts Recipe at home, you’re not just making doughnuts—you’re creating moments filled with warmth, joy, and delightful fruity sensations that spark smiles all around. Whether you’re enjoying them quietly with your morning coffee or sharing at a lively brunch, these doughnuts will quickly become a beloved recipe that makes any day special. Give it a try and watch your kitchen fill with the incredible aroma and flavor of homemade goodness!
Print
Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 doughnuts 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delight in these homemade Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts featuring a tender, fluffy dough infused with fresh strawberries and a sweet strawberry glaze. Perfect for breakfast or a dessert treat, these fried doughnuts boast a rich buttermilk flavor and a vibrant, fruity finish.
Ingredients
Doughnuts
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup finely chopped fresh strawberries
- Vegetable oil for frying
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons mashed strawberries
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the granulated sugar, melted unsalted butter, large egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine and Add Strawberries: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Carefully stir in the finely chopped fresh strawberries, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the dough.
- Shape the Doughnuts: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and roll it out to approximately ½-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or a round cutter with a smaller cutter for the center hole to cut out doughnuts.
- Heat Oil and Fry Doughnuts: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts in batches, cooking each side for 1–2 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Drain the Doughnuts: Remove fried doughnuts with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, mashed strawberries, and lemon juice until smooth and glossy.
- Glaze the Doughnuts: While the doughnuts are still warm, dip them into the strawberry glaze or drizzle the glaze over the top. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Notes
- Use very ripe strawberries for the best flavor and vibrant color in the glaze.
- These doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh on the day they’re made for optimal texture and taste.
- For a lighter alternative, bake doughnuts in a doughnut pan at 350°F for 12–15 minutes instead of frying.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
