No-Knead Baked Donuts

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Fluffy, Golden, and Healthier Than Fried—With Minimal Effort!

Introduction

These No-Knead Baked Donuts offer all the soft, pillowy texture of traditional donuts without the hassle of kneading or deep-frying. Made with a rich, buttery dough sweetened with honey and vanilla, they bake up light and airy with a delicate crumb. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack, these donuts are easy to shape and customizable with glazes, sprinkles, or cinnamon sugar.

Unlike fried donuts, this version is lighter yet equally satisfying, thanks to a slow-rise dough that develops flavor naturally. The recipe requires just 10 minutes of active prep, making it ideal for busy bakers or those new to yeast doughs.

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 3¾ cups (575g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp instant yeast
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ¾ cup (200ml) warm milk (110°F/45°C)
  • ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • ¼ cup (80g) honey
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Topping (Optional)

  • Powdered sugar glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp milk)
  • Cinnamon sugar (½ cup sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon)
  • Chocolate ganache or sprinkles

(Makes 12–14 donuts)

Instructions

1. Mix the Dough

  1. In a large bowl, whisk flour, yeast, and salt.
  2. Add warm milk, melted butter, eggs, honey, and vanilla. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms (it will be sticky).
  3. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 2 hours, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.

2. Shape the Donuts

  1. Turn the risen dough onto a floured surface. Gently pat into a 1-inch thick rectangle.
  2. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (3-inch and 1-inch) to shape donuts.
  3. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

3. Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bake donuts for 10–12 minutes until golden.
  3. Cool on a wire rack before glazing.

4. Decorate

  • Dip in powdered sugar glaze, roll in cinnamon sugar, or drizzle with melted chocolate.

Why This Recipe Works

No-Knead Magic

  • The long, slow rise develops gluten without kneading, yielding a tender crumb.
  • Butter and eggs add richness, while honey provides subtle sweetness.

Baking vs. Frying

  • Baking eliminates the mess of oil while keeping the donuts light and fluffy.
  • The high oven heat creates a golden exterior similar to fried donuts.

Tips for Success

✔ Chill the dough overnight for easier handling and better flavor.
✔ Don’t over-flour when shaping—stickiness ensures softness.
✔ Storage: Keep in an airtight container for 2 days or freeze unglazed donuts for 1 month.

Serving Suggestions

  • With fresh berries and whipped cream for a dessert twist.
  • As mini donuts for parties (adjust baking time to 8–10 minutes).
  • Paired with coffee or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.

Conclusion

These No-Knead Baked Donuts prove that homemade donuts can be easy and wholesome. Their cloud-like texture and customizable toppings make them a versatile favorite for all ages.

Perfect for lazy weekends or impromptu gatherings!

Variation: Add lemon zest to the dough or fill with jam after baking.

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