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Key Lime Pie Donuts

Key Lime Pie Donuts

Key Lime Pie Donuts are a delightful fusion of the tangy zest and sweetness of classic Key lime pie with the soft, fluffy texture of freshly baked donuts. Perfectly balanced and easy to make at home, these baked donuts offer a refreshing, bright flavor ideal for brunch, dessert, or a snack. The recipe combines simple pantry ingredients to create a unique treat that’s moist, tender, and irresistibly flavorful.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup fresh Key lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon Key lime zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Glaze and Topping

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 12 tablespoons fresh Key lime juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Additional lime zest or crushed graham crackers (optional for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and granulated sugar. In a separate bowl, mix the eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, Key lime juice, Key lime zest, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until you achieve a smooth, thick batter.
  2. Shape the Donuts: Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a zip-top plastic bag with a corner cut off. Carefully pipe the batter into a greased donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full to allow room for rising during baking.
  3. Bake to Perfection: Place the donut pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the donuts turn golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
  4. Make the Glaze: Combine the powdered sugar with a splash of fresh Key lime juice and vanilla extract to create a smooth glaze. Drizzle this mixture over the cooled donuts to add sweetness, shine, and a signature citrus punch.
  5. Garnish and Serve: For extra flavor and texture, sprinkle additional lime zest or crushed graham crackers on top of the glaze to mimic the pie crust. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh Key limes for the brightest, most authentic flavor.
  • Mix batter only until just combined to avoid tough donuts.
  • Check your oven temperature with a thermometer to ensure even baking.
  • Allow donuts to cool completely before glazing to prevent meltdown.
  • Consider adding finely chopped nuts or toasted coconut flakes for texture variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: Key Lime Pie Donuts, baked donuts, citrus dessert, Key lime dessert, homemade donuts, tangy donuts, spring dessert