There’s a certain joy in creating warm, sweet bites that never fail to bring a smile — and these Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes are the perfect way to elevate your treat game. Picture this: a soft, fluffy interior bursting with juicy blueberries, all enveloped in a sweet, tangy lemon glaze that dances on your taste buds. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water!
On a recent Sunday morning, as the sun streamed through my kitchen window, I decided to forgo the drive-thru and whip up a batch of these delightful donut holes instead. Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also banish any cravings for fast food by adding a homemade touch that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re impressing guests or indulging in a little self-care, this recipe will quickly become your go-to weekend ritual. Let’s dive into how you can bring these little bites of heaven to your table!
Why You'll Love This Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes
- These Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious treat in no time at all.
- The burst of flavor from the juicy blueberries combined with the tangy lemon glaze creates an irresistible taste sensation that will leave everyone wanting more.
- They are also wonderfully versatile, making them perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack at any gathering.
- With their vibrant colors and delightful presentation, these donut holes are sure to impress your guests and brighten up any table.
Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Donut Holes
- All-purpose flour – provides the perfect base for these fluffy bites.
- Granulated sugar – balances the tartness of the blueberries and lemon.
- Baking powder – helps the donut holes rise to that heavenly fluffiness.
- Baking soda – adds a little extra lift for a light, airy texture.
- Salt – enhances all the flavors, making each bite even more delicious.
- Buttermilk – keeps the donut holes moist and tender; you can substitute with milk plus a squeeze of lemon juice!
- Greek yogurt or sour cream – adds creaminess and tang; feel free to use low-fat versions for a lighter treat.
- Salted butter (melted) – contributes rich flavor and moisture to the batter.
- Vanilla extract – infuses a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with the blueberries.
- Fresh or frozen blueberries – the star ingredient that adds juicy bursts of flavor throughout.
- Avocado oil – perfect for frying, it has a high smoke point and a mild flavor.
For the Glaze
- Salted butter (melted) – delivers a luscious richness that envelops each donut hole.
- Fresh lemon juice – brightens the glaze with a tangy kick, complementing the blueberry flavor.
- Granulated sugar – sweetens the glaze to perfection; adjust to taste!
- Lemon zest – intensifies the lemon flavor, making the glaze irresistibly aromatic.
- Powdered sugar – adds the ideal sweetness and a silky texture to the glaze.
- Cultured buttermilk – adjust for consistency to achieve a drizzle-worthy glaze.
- Vanilla extract or paste – a final touch that enhances the glaze’s flavor profile.
Now, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying these delightful Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes!
How to Make Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well mixed. This creates a solid base for your donut holes.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, blend the buttermilk, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy to ensure a delightful texture in the batter.
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Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones, mixing just until combined. It’s important not to overmix to keep your donut holes light and airy.
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Fold in Blueberries: Carefully add the blueberries to the batter, folding them in with a spatula. This ensures that each bite has a burst of juicy fruit flavor.
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Heat Oil: In a deep frying pan, heat avocado oil over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F. To check if it’s ready, drop a small amount of batter into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
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Fry Donut Holes: Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, being careful not to crowd the pan. Fry them until they are golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
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Drain Oil: Once golden, remove the donut holes and let them drain on paper towels. This step helps eliminate excess oil for a lighter treat.
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Make the Glaze: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, granulated sugar, lemon zest, powdered sugar, cultured buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency with more buttermilk if needed.
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Glaze Donut Holes: Dip each warm donut hole into the lemon glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Set them aside on a wire rack to let the glaze set for a few minutes.
Optional: Sprinkle with extra lemon zest for an added flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes
Room Temperature: Store donut holes in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep them cool and away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you want to extend their shelf life, keep the donut holes in the fridge for up to 5 days. Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking and maintain texture.
Freezer: Freeze donut holes by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months!
Reheating: For the best results, reheat frozen donut holes in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Glaze after reheating for that fresh-baked flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine them and refrigerate. To keep the blueberries from sinking, fold them in just before frying. Additionally, you can make the lemon glaze ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry the donut holes as directed and glaze them while warm for irresistible, fresh-from-the-kitchen flavor that’s just as delightful as when made from scratch!
Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes Variations
Feel free to get creative with these simple twists that will take your donut holes to the next level!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these donut holes friendly for gluten-sensitive diets. They’ll still turn out tender and delicious!
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Berry Medley: Swap out blueberries for a mix of fresh raspberries, blackberries, or even chopped strawberries. Each berry adds its unique burst of flavor.
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Citrus Kick: For a zesty variation, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter. The extra citrus will elevate the flavors beautifully!
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Maple Glaze: Replace the lemon glaze with a maple syrup glaze by mixing powdered sugar with pure maple syrup until smooth. This gives a cozy, autumn twist to the classic.
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Coconut Bliss: Fold in unsweetened shredded coconut into your batter for a tropical flair. The coconut adds a lovely chewiness that pairs wonderfully with the blueberries.
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Chili Heat: For an adventurous kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the glaze. The subtle heat complements the sweetness in a surprising way.
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the glaze for added texture and a nutty flavor that enhances the overall experience.
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Mini Doughnut Shape: Use a mini doughnut maker instead of frying for bite-sized versions that are perfect for snacking. You’ll get those delightful donut holes in a unique shape!
Each of these variations brings a delightful twist and can make your Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes even more special and personalized. Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes?
Savoring these delightful treats is just the beginning—complement them with simple sides that elevate your experience even further.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits enhances the sweetness of the donuts, offering a burst of color and flavor.
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Creamy Greek Yogurt: Silky and tangy, a dollop of Greek yogurt served alongside adds a perfect contrast to the sweet glaze.
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Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea balances the sweetness, making for a cozy afternoon snack or breakfast.
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Honey Drizzle: A light drizzle of honey on top adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the lemon.
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Crispy Bacon: The salty, smoky flavor of crispy bacon creates a delightful savory contrast to the sweet donut holes.
Indulging in these pairings not only amplifies the flavors of the Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes but also transforms them into a complete meal experience, perfect for any occasion!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the perfect texture in your Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes, make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined to avoid overmixing which can lead to dense donut holes.
- When folding in the blueberries, do so gently to prevent them from breaking and releasing too much juice into the batter.
- It’s important to monitor the oil temperature and keep it consistent around 350°F to ensure even cooking and a golden-brown exterior.
- Lastly, after frying, allow the donut holes to cool slightly on paper towels before glazing to ensure the glaze adheres properly and adds a delightful finish.
Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
What type of blueberries should I use?
Absolutely! Fresh blueberries are ideal for these Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes, as they offer the best flavor and juiciness. If fresh berries aren’t available, feel free to substitute with frozen blueberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture in the batter.
How should I store leftover donut holes?
To keep your delicious donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for about 5 days. Layer them with parchment paper to help them maintain their delightful texture!
Can I freeze Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes?
Yes, you can! To freeze, first place the donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How can I reheat frozen donut holes?
To enjoy your frozen donut holes, preheat your oven to 350°F. Arrange the donut holes on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes. This method ensures they warm through while retaining their soft and fluffy texture. Remember to glaze them after reheating for the perfect finish!
Are these donut holes safe for pets or people with allergies?
While Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes are safe for human consumption, they may not be suitable for pets, particularly due to ingredients like sugar and butter. For those with allergies, always check the labels of your ingredients—substituting almond milk for buttermilk or using egg replacements can help accommodate various dietary needs.
What if my batter is too thick or too runny?
Very good question! If your batter is too thick, you can gently stir in a little more buttermilk—add a tablespoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached. Conversely, if it’s too runny, consider adding a touch more flour, about 1 tablespoon at a time, until it thickens enough to hold its shape when dropped into the oil. Remember, the goal is to achieve a dough that’s thick enough to hold its form while still being able to easily drop spoonfuls into the frying oil!
Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well mixed.
- In a separate bowl, blend the buttermilk, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones, mixing just until combined.
- Carefully add the blueberries to the batter, folding them in with a spatula.
- In a deep frying pan, heat avocado oil over medium heat until it reaches approximately 350°F.
- Drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil, frying them until golden brown for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Once golden, remove the donut holes and let them drain on paper towels.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, lemon juice, granulated sugar, lemon zest, powdered sugar, cultured buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dip each warm donut hole into the lemon glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Set aside on a wire rack to let the glaze set for a few minutes.
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