Cherry Donuts Recipe

Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy cherry donut, the sweet fruit oozing through the light, airy dough. You might think making such a treat requires extensive baking skills or fancy ingredients, but that’s not the case. This simple recipe guarantees you can whip up a batch in just 25 minutes, using what you likely have on hand. As you consider how to customize these donuts, whether with a fruity glaze or a sprinkle of your favorite cereal, you’ll find yourself enthusiastic to explore the delightful possibilities ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you try this Cherry Donuts recipe, you’ll quickly discover why it’s a favorite among home bakers. First, these donuts are delicious and flavorful, made with fresh or canned cherries that bring natural sweetness.

You’ll love that they’re baked instead of fried, offering a healthier alternative. Plus, you can customize them with toppings like Fruity Pebbles for added texture.

The recipe is easy to prepare, requiring only common household ingredients. You won’t need any special frying equipment, as standard baking pans work perfectly. In just about 25 minutes, you can go from mixing to enjoying these tasty treats.

Nutritionally, these donuts are lower in fat and calories compared to traditional versions. You can even make them healthier by using whole wheat pastry flour or a vegan option with plant-based milk. Additionally, the use of dark-sweet cherries enhances the overall taste of the doughnuts.

Finally, the versatility in flavors and toppings makes this recipe exciting. You can experiment with different types of cherries, flavors like almond or cinnamon, and creative glazes.

Whether you fill them with jam or add a streusel topping, the possibilities are endless. This Cherry Donuts recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire!

History

The history of donuts is as rich and varied as their many flavors. You might be surprised to learn that Dutch settlers introduced fried dough to the Americas in the 17th century. Initially, this dough sometimes contained fillings of fruits and nuts, which led to the term “doughnuts.”

A popular story is that of Hanson Gregory, who’s often credited with inventing the modern donut by cutting a hole in the center for better cooking. Over time, the name “doughnut” was Americanized to “donut,” reflecting a shift in language. The spelling “donut” became common in the early 20th century, popularized by Dunkin’ Donuts.

As the donut evolved, it became a definitive American delicacy, especially in the early 20th century when chains like Dunkin’ Donuts made the name ubiquitous. Local donut shops sprang up across the country, each developing unique styles and flavors.

Some towns, like Batesville, Indiana, created special traditions, such as Schmidt Bakery’s cherry thing-a-lings.

Donuts have also inspired local cultures and seasonal festivities, contributing to both community traditions and local economies. With global influences, new types like mochi donuts from Japan have broadened the variety, showcasing how donuts continue to evolve and delight people everywhere.

Recipe

Cherry Donuts Recipe

Indulging in homemade cherry donuts is a delightful way to enjoy a treat that bursts with flavor and a hint of sweetness. These soft and fluffy donuts are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack throughout the day. With the combination of fresh cherries or cherry jam, these donuts offer a juicy surprise in every bite, making them an irresistible option for cherry lovers. Additionally, these donuts are a healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts, making them a guilt-free indulgence.

Making cherry donuts at home is easier than you might think. With a few simple ingredients and some straightforward steps, you can whip up a batch that rivals any bakery. Whether you choose to glaze them with a cherry glaze or sprinkle them with cinnamon sugar, these donuts are sure to impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups of flour
– 3/4 cup of sugar
– 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional)
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Chopped cherries or cherry jam (for flavor)
– Nonstick spray (for the donut pan)

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (or 425°F for a different texture) and prepare a standard donut pan by spraying it with nonstick spray.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Whisk together until well blended.
In another bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Fold in the chopped cherries or cherry jam to the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each cavity of the donut pan about 3/4 full with the batter.
Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 10-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, apply your desired toppings, such as cherry glaze, cinnamon sugar, or any other toppings you prefer.

For the best results, remember to measure your ingredients accurately, as baking is a precise science.

Also, feel free to experiment with different flavorings or add-ins, such as chocolate chips or nuts, to personalize your cherry donuts. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!

Final Thoughts

Homemade cherry donuts aren’t just a delicious treat; they’re a canvas for your creativity in the kitchen. You can customize them with various toppings or glazes to enhance both flavor and appearance.

Remember, the baking time can vary between 10 to 18 minutes, depending on your recipe and oven settings. Using fresh or maraschino cherries will give your donuts a rich cherry flavor, while incorporating cherry jam or preserves into the batter can add even more depth. Additionally, the baking time for these donuts typically ranges from 12 to 16 minutes at 375˚F for optimal results.

Avoid overmixing the batter to guarantee your donuts come out light and fluffy. Proper cooling and glazing techniques are key to achieving a smooth finish. Consider using a piping bag for even batter distribution and adding toppings immediately after glazing for a festive look.

Baked donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store them unglazed for up to two days at room temperature. If you choose to freeze them after glazing, thaw them at room temperature or overnight.

Finally, maintaining the correct oven temperature is essential for even baking, so pay close attention to your settings. Enjoy the process and let your creativity shine through with each batch!

FAQ

If you’re new to making cherry donuts, you might’ve some questions about the process. One common concern is how to prevent donuts from sticking to the pan. To solve this, grease your donut pans well or use non-stick spray.

If your donuts turn out undercooked inside, it’s likely due to an incorrect oven temperature or not baking them long enough. Misshapen donuts can happen if your batter consistency is off or if you fill the donut pans improperly. To achieve the right shape, fill the pans about 3/4 full and maintain correct baking conditions. Typically, baking time ranges from 12 to 18 minutes, depending on your recipe.

Keep in mind that if you notice flat donuts, it could be due to insufficient leavening or incorrect frying temperature if you’re frying them. Always allow your donuts to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a cooling rack. Additionally, ensure you use baking powder and baking soda to achieve the perfect rise for your donuts.

Finally, remember to fold in cherries gently to distribute them evenly throughout the batter. These tips will help guarantee your cherry donuts turn out delicious and beautifully shaped!