Name: Irresistible Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts with Sweet Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 66 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (Properly measured by spooning it into the cup.); 1 teaspoon Baking Powder (Acts as a leavening agent.); 0.25 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt (Enhances flavor.); 0.75 cup Granulated Sugar (Adds sweetness.); 4 tablespoons Salted European Butter (Melted, can use unsalted.); 0.5 cup Buttermilk (Can substitute with milk and vinegar.); 1 large Egg (Binds ingredients.); 0.25 cup Sour Cream (Enhances moisture.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Bean Paste (Imparts deep vanilla flavor.); 1 cup Frozen Wild Blueberries (Avoid fresh blueberries.); 3 inches Neutral Frying Oil (For frying.); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (For sweetness.); 2 tablespoons Freeze-Dried Blueberry Powder (Intensifies flavor.); 2 tablespoons Whole Milk (Adjust for desired consistency.); Blueberry Emulsion or Extract (Optional for extra flavor.)

As the aroma of warm donuts fills the air, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia wash over me. Imagine delighting in a batch of Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze, each one a little piece of heaven reminiscent of the best bakery treats. These delightful bites are not only easy to whip up but also perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own as a sweet escape from the everyday rush. With a crispy exterior and a moist, fluffy interior, they bring joy to any morning or afternoon snack. Plus, you’ll love how customizable they are—feel free to swap in strawberries for a fun twist! Ready to embrace the whimsy of homemade donuts? Let’s get started!

Why are these donuts so irresistible?

Crispy and Soft: The perfect balance of a crispy exterior and moist, fluffy interior makes these Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts a delightful treat for your senses. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up these bakery-style donuts effortlessly. Customizable Flavors: Don’t stop at blueberries—try strawberries or even create a zesty lemon glaze for a refreshing twist! Nostalgic Experience: Each bite is like a hug from your favorite bakery, bringing back sweet memories with every delicious munch. Enjoy them warm, as they make a fantastic breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up!

Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts Ingredients

For the Donuts

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the donuts; ensure proper measuring for best results by spooning it into the measuring cup.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent, creating a wonderfully light texture.
Fine Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the blueberries.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; can be substituted with a sugar alternative for a different sweetness profile.
Salted European Butter (melted) – Contributes a rich flavor; feel free to use unsalted butter if preferred, adjusting salt accordingly.
Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tenderness; you can substitute this with milk mixed with a bit of vinegar or yogurt for similar results.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together while adding moisture to the mixture.
Sour Cream – Enhances moisture and adds a slight tang; plain yogurt is a great substitute if you’re out of sour cream.
Vanilla Bean Paste – Imparts a deep vanilla flavor; extract works well as an alternative.
Frozen Wild Blueberries – Key for the classic flavor in these Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts; avoid fresh blueberries as they can bleed too much juice.
Neutral Frying Oil (vegetable, canola, or avocado) – Necessary for frying to achieve that delicious crispy texture.

For the Blueberry Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Gives sweetness and a smooth consistency to the glaze.
Whole Milk – Helps make the glaze pourable; consider using a non-dairy alternative if desired.
Freeze-Dried Blueberry Powder – Intensifies the blueberry flavor and color, but regular blueberry powder can substitute if you don’t have freeze-dried on hand.
Blueberry Emulsion or Extract – Adds an extra burst of flavor; can be omitted if you prefer a milder taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze

Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Ensure that the ingredients are well combined, creating a light and airy mixture that will form the base of your Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts. Set aside as you prepare the wet mixture to build the perfect donut batter.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 4 tablespoons of melted salted butter, ½ cup of buttermilk, 1 large egg, ¼ cup of sour cream, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste. Mix until smooth and creamy—this combination adds richness and moisture to your donuts. Make sure no sugar granules remain, creating a perfect consistency for the next steps.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula until almost combined, being careful not to overmix. Then, delicately fold in 1 cup of frozen wild blueberries. Allow the batter to rest for 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This brief chilling period enhances the moisture and ensures a fluffier texture in your Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts.

Step 4: Prepare for Frying
While the batter rests, heat about 3 inches of neutral frying oil in a heavy pot or deep fryer to 355°F (180°C). Prepare a wire rack over paper towels for draining the donuts after frying. This setup will allow for easy cooling and cleanup, ensuring your delicious Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts stay crispy and delightful.

Step 5: Fry Donuts
Using a spring-loaded scoop, carefully drop small amounts of batter into the hot oil. Fry the donuts for about 3 minutes per side, flipping them once until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried donuts to the prepared wire rack, allowing any excess oil to drain away for a perfect, non-greasy finish.

Step 6: Make Glaze
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of freeze-dried blueberry powder, and 2 tablespoons of whole milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and runny, adjusting the milk for desired consistency. If you have blueberry emulsion or extract, add it for an extra burst of flavor. This glaze will top off your Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts beautifully!

Step 7: Coat Donuts
Once the donuts have cooled slightly, dip each one into the blueberry glaze, ensuring it is fully coated. Allow any excess glaze to drip off before placing the donuts back on the wire rack. The vibrant glaze will set nicely, imparting a sweet sheen to each Mini Blueberry Cake Donut, ready to be savored by you and your loved ones.

Expert Tips for Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts

Oil Temperature: Maintain the frying oil at 355°F. If the temperature is too low, the donuts might turn out greasy.
Uniform Size: Use a spring-loaded scoop for evenly sized donuts. This ensures consistent cooking and helps achieve that perfect golden-brown hue.
Chill Batter: Refrigerate the batter for 30 minutes to enhance moisture retention, yielding fluffier Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts.
Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to denser donuts.
Measure Flour Properly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level off. Scooping directly can compact the flour, resulting in heavy donuts.

How to Store and Freeze Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts

Room Temperature: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days to maintain their delightful freshness.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the donuts for up to a week; just be aware they may lose some of their crispness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes, to revive their soft texture.

Make Ahead Options

These Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix dry and wet ingredients, fold in the blueberries, and refrigerate the batter until you’re ready to fry. To maintain the donuts’ delightful texture, avoid frying until you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can fry the donuts and glaze them, storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Just warm them gently in the oven for a few minutes before serving to restore their fresh-baked taste!

What to Serve with Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze

Warm and gooey, these delightful mini donuts are just begging to be paired with other treats that elevate your breakfast or snack experience.

Fresh Berries: Serve a medley of raspberries and strawberries alongside the donuts for a refreshing contrast in flavor and texture.
Coffee or Espresso: A rich cup of coffee perfectly balances the sweetness of the donuts, making each bite more gratifying.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with crunchy granola and fruit for a delightful breakfast option that complements the donuts beautifully.
Lemon Zest Scones: The citrus notes of lemon scones provide a zesty kick that harmonizes with the sweetness of the blueberry glaze.
Milkshake: A thick, luscious blueberry milkshake enhances the fruity theme, bringing an exciting twist to your treat moment.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a dreamy, velvety texture—a match made in dessert heaven.
Mimosa: For a celebratory breakfast, enjoy your mini blueberry cake donuts with a fresh orange mimosa; the bubbly adds a festive touch.
Cinnamon Roll Bites: These tender bites offer a cozy sweetness that pairs wonderfully, complementing the flavors of your mini donut experience.
Iced Tea: A refreshing cup of iced tea, particularly fruity or herbal blends, can cleanse the palate, making the donuts even more delightful.
Chocolate Fondue: For the adventurous, a side of chocolate fondue provides a fun and interactive dessert experience, perfect for dipping bites of donut bliss.

Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts Variations

Explore the world of flavors with these delightful options that can elevate your mini blueberry cake donuts!

Strawberry Sensation: Swap the blueberries for fresh or frozen strawberries for a fruity twist. Just be sure to slice larger berries for a better texture.
Lemon Zing: Add zest from one lemon to the batter for a refreshing hint of citrus that brightens every bite. A lemon glaze would also be a delightful finish!
Chocolate Bliss: Incorporate cocoa powder into the batter to create a rich chocolate cake donut. Top with a chocolate glaze to take it to the next level of indulgence!
Nutty Delight: Stir in some chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to add texture and a delightful crunch. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the donuts.
Spiced Autumn: Mix in seasonal spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to the batter for a cozy autumn flavor. These donuts will feel like a warm hug on chilly days.
Coconut Cream: Substitute a portion of the buttermilk with coconut milk and add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist. This will leave you dreaming of sunny days!
Maple Magic: Replace granulated sugar with maple syrup for a subtle maple flavor in your donuts. Top them with a maple glaze to enhance the sweetness.
Heat Things Up: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the batter or a bit of chili powder to the glaze. It’s a fun way to tantalize the taste buds!

As you experiment with these variations, consider pairing your donuts with a refreshing drink like this Homemade Pancakes Elevates recipe for a perfect breakfast combo!

Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts with Blueberry Glaze Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe blueberries for the donuts?
Absolutely! When choosing blueberries, look for plump, firm berries that are deep blue in color. Avoid any with dark spots or shriveling, as these indicate overripeness. Fresh, quality berries will not only taste better but also retain their shape during baking, ensuring your donuts have that delightful burst of flavor.

How should I store leftover Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts?
After you’ve enjoyed your delicious donuts, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you find that they lose their freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. However, keep in mind that refrigeration may slightly affect their texture, making them less crispy.

Can I freeze Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts?
Certainly! To freeze the donuts, start by laying them on a baking sheet in a single layer and placing them in the freezer until they are firm, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer the donuts to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored this way for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore their delightful warmth.

What if my donuts turn out greasy?
If your donuts are coming out greasy, it could be due to oil that’s not hot enough. Maintaining the frying oil temperature at 355°F is crucial. Invest in a kitchen thermometer to check the oil’s temperature accurately. Also, avoid overcrowding the pot, as this can lower the oil temperature, leading to greasy results. Fry them in batches for the best outcome!

Are these donuts safe for pets or those with allergies?
While these Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts are delicious for humans, it’s best to keep them away from pets, particularly dogs, due to ingredients like chocolate or sugar, which can be harmful. For allergy considerations, be cautious with any substitutes. Ensure that any sugar alternatives or dairy substitutes you use are safe for those with specific dietary needs. Always check labels to avoid cross-contamination with allergens.

Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Very much! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use almond milk or oat milk mixed with a splash of vinegar as a buttermilk substitute. For a gluten-free version, you can try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly. And remember, personalizing your Mini Blueberry Cake Donuts with substitutions can yield tasty results while accommodating dietary needs!