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Key Lime Pie Donuts

Key Lime Pie Donuts

Key Lime Pie Donuts offer a zesty and creamy treat that captures the classic tangy lime flavor wrapped in a soft, cakey donut. Featuring a light, fluffy texture from buttermilk and a smooth key lime glaze, these baked donuts are perfect for any occasion. Garnished with graham cracker crumbs and lime zest, they provide a refreshing and portable dessert experience with customizable options like dairy-free or gluten-free versions.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 12 donuts 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 3/4 cup white granulated sugar

Wet Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup buttermilk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup freshly squeezed key lime juice

Glaze

  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons key lime juice (adjust for consistency)

Garnishes (optional)

  • Graham cracker crumbs
  • Lime zest
  • Toasted coconut flakes (alternative topping)
  • Melted white or dark chocolate (for drizzle)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Donut Batter: Whisk together the dry ingredients including flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sugar in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients— buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and freshly squeezed key lime juice. Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender.
  2. Fill the Donut Pan: Grease the donut pan well or spray with non-stick cooking spray. Spoon the batter into each cavity, filling about 3/4 full to allow room for rising during baking.
  3. Bake to Perfection: Bake the donuts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12 to 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The donuts should have firm, lightly golden tops.
  4. Prepare the Key Lime Glaze: Whisk the powdered sugar with key lime juice until you achieve a smooth, pourable glaze. Adjust consistency by adding more powdered sugar or lime juice as needed to coat the donuts evenly.
  5. Glaze and Garnish: Once the donuts are slightly cooled but still warm, dip or drizzle them with the glaze. Immediately sprinkle graham cracker crumbs and lime zest on top before the glaze sets, to replicate the classic pie crust texture.

Notes

  • Use fresh key limes for the most vibrant and authentic flavor.
  • Do not overmix the batter to ensure tender, soft donuts.
  • Test donut doneness with a toothpick to avoid drying them out.
  • Glaze the donuts while they are warm for a smooth, thin finish.
  • Add fresh lime zest just before serving to enhance aroma and visual appeal.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 donut
  • Calories: 220
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: key lime pie donuts, lime donuts, baked donuts, citrus dessert, glazed donuts, portable dessert