Packed with zesty orange flavor, these delightful donuts are a refreshing weekend treat or holiday breakfast. Freshly baked and bursting with citrus, they’re too delicious to resist. The best part? No special fryer equipment needed!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1¼ cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon orange zest (from Hale Groves Navel Oranges or Valencia Oranges)
- 1 tablespoon fresh orange juice
Optional Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
- ½ teaspoon orange zest
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease two standard donuts pans thoroughly (or use non-stick spray).
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry: Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The mixture should still be slightly lumpy.
- Add citrus: Fold in orange zest and orange juice. Mix gently until incorporated. Do not overmix or donuts will be tough.
- Fill pans: Spoon or pipe batter into prepared donuts pans, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
- Bake: Bake for 15-17 minutes until donuts spring back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool: Let donuts cool in pan for 5 minutes, then carefully remove to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Glaze (optional): Whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and zest until smooth. Dip cooled donuts in glaze or dust with powdered sugar.
Tips for Success
Which oranges to use? Both Navel Oranges and Valencia Oranges work beautifully in this recipe. Navels are sweeter with thicker skin (easier to zest), making them ideal for baking. Valencias have a more tart, bright flavor and are perfect if you prefer a tangier donuts. Use what’s in season or what you have on hand!
Don’t overmix: Lumpy batter is okay! Overmixing develops gluten, which makes donuts dense instead of tender.
No donut pan? Use a muffin tin instead and make orange muffins. Bake for 18-20 minutes.
Ready to bake? Shop Hale Groves Navel Oranges or Valencia Oranges
Perfect for weekend brunch, holiday mornings, or anytime you want a citrusy treat that fills your kitchen with the most amazing aroma!