Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts—an irresistible baked delight that brings together tender crumb, juicy berries, and a sunshine-bright glaze. These doughnuts capture everything we love about homemade treats: playful sweetness, lush strawberry flavor, and a gorgeous, bakery-style finish you can whip up right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re brewing your morning coffee or planning a special brunch, one bite of these Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts and you’ll see why they top the list of go-to, crowd-pleasing recipes.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these doughnuts is joyfully simple, yet each ingredient truly shines—from rich buttermilk and aromatic vanilla to the fresh strawberries that give each bite its signature pop. Here’s everything you’ll need, plus a few tips for getting the most out of your ingredients!

• All-purpose flour: Gives the doughnuts their soft, cakey structure—measure carefully for the best texture.
• Baking powder: Adds essential rise and lightness for that perfect, fluffy bite.
• Baking soda: Reacts with the buttermilk for extra tenderness.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavors—don’t skip it!
• Ground nutmeg: Just a touch brings a classic, nostalgic bakery aroma.
• Granulated sugar: Provides basic sweetness and a delicate crumb.
• Brown sugar: Offers moisture and a hint of caramel-like depth.
• Unsalted butter (melted): Makes the doughnuts rich and tender—use unsalted for better control of flavor.
• Large egg: Binds the ingredients and gives structure.
• Buttermilk: The secret to cakey, moist doughnuts with a subtle tang.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances aroma and rounds out the sweetness.
• Finely chopped fresh strawberries: The star of the show—adds juicy bursts of berry in every bite.
• Powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a smooth, silky glaze for that doughnut-shop look.
• Strawberry puree (for glaze): Infuses the glaze with real berry flavor and a naturally lovely blush.
• Vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds warmth and depth to the bright glaze.

How to Make Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Doughnut Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking from the get-go. Lightly grease a standard doughnut pan—making sure to coat every little groove—so your Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts effortlessly pop out beautiful and whole.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisking first prevents lumps and helps create super-tender, uniform doughnuts with every batch.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, large egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until completely smooth. The buttermilk brings a wonderfully light tang and moistness, while the butter adds a luscious richness for unbeatable flavor.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and gently stir until just combined—don’t overmix! This keeps the doughnuts delicate and soft. Fold in the finely chopped fresh strawberries, distributing those juicy bits evenly for bursts of berry in every bite.

Step 5: Fill the Doughnut Pan

Use a spoon or a piping bag to fill each doughnut pan cavity about three-quarters full. This allows the Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts to rise perfectly without spilling over, giving you that classic doughnut shape.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops spring back when lightly pressed and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The kitchen will fill with the most tantalizing aroma—like a little slice of strawberry summer!

Step 7: Cool and Glaze

Let the doughnuts cool in the pan for about five minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, strawberry puree, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip the tops of your cooled doughnuts in the glaze and set them back on the rack to let any excess drip away and the glaze set perfectly.

How to Serve Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts

Garnishes

Give the finishing touch to your Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts by dressing them up just the way you like. Fresh strawberry slices, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even a handful of freeze-dried strawberry crumbles add flair and flavor—plus, they make these treats look stunning on any brunch or dessert table.

Side Dishes

Pair your doughnuts with a creamy vanilla latte, tangy Greek yogurt, or fresh fruit salad for a complete breakfast spread. For a more decadent treat, try serving them alongside whipped cream or a cold glass of sparkling lemonade—perfect for weekend get-togethers or celebratory mornings.

Creative Ways to Present

Don’t be afraid to have fun with presentation! Stack Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts donut-shop style on a cake stand, pop them onto skewers for a playful brunch centerpiece, or create a colorful doughnut “board” with fresh berries and dips. However you serve them, these doughnuts steal the spotlight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep your Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps retain their softness and keeps the glaze from becoming too sticky.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze these doughnuts! Place unglazed doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a resealable bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and glaze just before serving for bakery-fresh results every time.

Reheating

For that just-baked treat, warm leftover doughnuts in the microwave for about 10 seconds, or in a 300°F oven for 3–4 minutes. This revives their fluffy texture and brings out those cozy, homemade aromas—even after a day or two.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain them thoroughly before chopping—this prevents excess moisture from seeping into the batter and ensures soft, fluffy Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts.

What if I don’t have a doughnut pan?

No worries—you can use a muffin tin and bake your batter as mini muffins! They won’t have a hole in the center, but all the flavor and joy of Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts will still shine through.

How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

If your glaze is too thick, add a splash more strawberry puree; if it’s too thin, mix in a bit more powdered sugar. Adjust until you’ve got that dreamy, drip-perfect consistency.

Can I make these doughnuts gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Just be aware that texture may vary a little, but they’ll still be absolutely delicious.

Why are my doughnuts dense instead of fluffy?

Overmixing the batter is usually the culprit—mix gently and stop as soon as the ingredients are combined. Using fresh baking powder and not overbaking will also keep your Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts moist and tender.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to take your first bite into these Strawberry Buttermilk Doughnuts—there’s nothing quite like the combination of tangy buttermilk, juicy strawberries, and a sweet, vibrant glaze. Whether you bake them for a relaxing brunch, a special occasion, or just because you’re craving something fantastic, these doughnuts are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen. Give them a try and share the joy!

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