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Key Lime Pie Donuts

Key Lime Pie Donuts

These Key Lime Pie Donuts offer a tangy, sweet, and irresistibly fluffy treat that combines the iconic citrus punch of Key lime pie with a soft donut base. Perfect as a unique breakfast, afternoon snack, or refreshing dessert, these baked donuts deliver a bright, balanced flavor with a luscious cream cheese glaze, making them a delightful and memorable indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option)
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 cup buttermilk (or plant-based milk with 1 tbsp vinegar for dairy-free)
  • 1/4 cup melted butter (or dairy-free butter substitute)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup fresh Key lime juice
  • 1 tbsp Key lime zest

Cream Cheese Glaze

  • 4 oz softened cream cheese
  • 1 to 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp fresh Key lime juice
  • 1 to 2 tbsp milk (adjust for desired glaze consistency)

Optional Toppings

  • Lime zest
  • Crushed graham crackers
  • Powdered sugar dusting
  • Toasted shredded coconut

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt. In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: eggs, buttermilk, melted butter, vanilla extract, fresh Key lime juice, and zest. Slowly pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the batter light and fluffy.
  2. Bake the Donuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or lightly oil a donut pan and fill each cavity about three-quarters full with the batter. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the tops spring back when gently pressed. Remove from oven and allow the donuts to cool slightly before glazing.
  3. Make the Cream Cheese Glaze: Beat the softened cream cheese in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, fresh Key lime juice, and a splash of milk. Adjust the milk amount to reach your desired glaze consistency—thicker for dipping or thinner for drizzling.
  4. Glaze the Donuts: While the donuts are still warm, dip them into the glaze or spoon glaze over the tops. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack to allow the excess glaze to drip off. Optionally, sprinkle with lime zest or crushed graham crackers immediately after glazing for additional texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use fresh Key limes for authentic tartness and aroma.
  • Do not overmix the batter to maintain light, fluffy donuts.
  • Use room temperature ingredients for smooth blending and even baking.
  • Glaze donuts while warm for better absorption and an even coating.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to four days.
  • Freeze wrapped donuts for up to one month and thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Reheat gently to avoid drying out and refresh glaze if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: Key Lime Pie Donuts, gluten-free donuts, baked donuts, citrus dessert, cream cheese glaze, lime donuts