Name: Coffee Cake Donuts with Vanilla Glaze for Sweet Mornings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 31 min
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons Cold unsalted butter (Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.); 1 cup Granulated sugar (Can be replaced with brown sugar for deeper flavor.); 2 cups All-purpose flour (Use gluten-free flour as an alternative.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Nutmeg can be used if desired.); 1/2 cup Light brown sugar (White sugar can be substituted in a pinch.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Enhances flavor; don't omit.); 1 tablespoon Baking powder (Ensure it’s fresh for best results.); 1 cup Full-fat sour cream (Greek yogurt can be a suitable alternative.); 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted) (For a lighter option, use applesauce.); 1 large Egg (Use a flax egg for a vegan option.); 1 cup Confectioners' sugar (Can be substituted with powdered erythritol for low-sugar version.); 2 tablespoons Whole milk (Almond milk or any milk substitute can be used.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract (Use pure vanilla for best flavor.)

As I rifled through my pantry one rainy afternoon, the sweet aroma of cinnamon and coffee cake came to mind, sparking a delightful craving. That’s when I decided to create these Baked Coffee Cake Donuts with Vanilla Glaze. In less than 30 minutes, you can whip up soft, fluffy donuts that bring the comforting flavors of coffee cake straight to your kitchen. The best part? Not only are they incredibly quick to prepare, but they also transform any busy morning into a moment of joy. Whether enjoyed with your morning brew or as a jovial snack while lounging at home, these donuts are sure to bring a smile to your face. Curious to see how simple ingredients can create such blissful treats? Let’s get baking!

Why are these donuts a must-try?

Quick Preparation: In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have freshly baked goodness that’s perfect for busy mornings.
Irresistible Flavor: The delightful combination of coffee cake flavors and sweet vanilla glaze makes each bite heavenly.
Baked, Not Fried: These donuts offer a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste, making them a guilt-free treat.
Versatile Base: Feel free to mix in chocolate chips or seasonal fruits like blueberries to elevate your donut experience.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack that everyone will love! Whether you’re a fan of baked goods or simply looking for a new breakfast idea, these Coffee Cake Donuts with Vanilla Glaze are sure to delight.

Coffee Cake Donut Ingredients

For the Donuts
Cold unsalted butter – Adds richness to the crumb topping; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
Granulated sugar – Sweetness for the crumb topping; can be replaced with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
All-purpose flour – Provides structure for both crumb topping and donuts; use gluten-free flour as an alternative.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice to the crumb topping; nutmeg can be used if desired.
Light brown sugar – Sweetness for the donuts, contributing to moisture; white sugar can be substituted in a pinch.
Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; don’t omit.
Baking powder – Helps donuts rise and become fluffy; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
Full-fat sour cream – Provides moisture and tanginess; Greek yogurt can be a suitable alternative.
Unsalted butter (melted) – Adds richness to the donut batter; for a lighter option, use applesauce.
Large egg – Binds ingredients together, adding structure; use a flax egg for a vegan option.
For the Glaze
Confectioners’ sugar – Sweet base for the glaze; can be substituted with powdered erythritol for a low-sugar version.
Whole milk – Thins the glaze to the right consistency; almond milk or any milk substitute can be used.
Vanilla extract – Enhances the glaze’s flavor; use pure vanilla for best taste.

With just these simple ingredients, you can create delectable Coffee Cake Donuts with Vanilla Glaze that bring joy to any occasion!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Coffee Cake Donuts with Vanilla Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease a 6-mold donut pan generously with non-stick spray. This ensures that your Coffee Cake Donuts come out easily after baking. Having your oven ready will help achieve perfect fluffy donuts in no time!

Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon to form the crumb topping. Cut in the cold unsalted butter using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse meal. Chill this topping in the freezer for about 10 minutes while you prepare the batter, which will enhance its texture.

Step 3: Prepare the Donut Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, light brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. In a separate bowl, mix the wet ingredients, including full-fat sour cream, melted butter, and the egg. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined, ensuring not to overmix to keep your donuts tender.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan
Using a spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cavity of the prepared donut pan with the batter, stopping just below the rim. This will allow enough space for the donuts to rise as they bake. Once filled, evenly sprinkle the chilled crumb topping over each donut for that signature coffee cake crunch.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-11 minutes. You’ll know the Coffee Cake Donuts are done when they spring back lightly when pressed and turn a lovely golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake.

Step 6: Cool the Donuts
After baking, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This will help them firm up and make it easier to transfer them. Then, carefully remove the donuts from the pan and place them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Vanilla Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, whole milk, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, pourable glaze. If the glaze is too thick, add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. This sweet glaze will be the finishing touch to your Coffee Cake Donuts.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve
Once the donuts are completely cooled, generously drizzle the vanilla glaze over each one. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving. These delightful Coffee Cake Donuts with Vanilla Glaze are now ready to be enjoyed alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea!

Storage Tips for Coffee Cake Donuts

Room Temperature: Store leftover coffee cake donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature to retain their fluffy texture.
Fridge: If you prefer chilled donuts, they can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container, although this may slightly alter their texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unglazed donuts in a single layer for up to 3 months. Wrap them well to prevent freezer burn and glaze just before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy donuts warm, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Coffee Cake Donuts

Chill Crumb Topping: Ensure the crumb topping is chilled before adding it to the donuts for the best texture and crunch.
Avoid Overmixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined to keep your Coffee Cake Donuts fluffy and tender.
Test for Doneness: Use the spring back test; if the donuts spring back when pressed lightly, they’re done! This prevents overbaking.
Piping the Batter: For cleaner and easier filling of the donut pan, pipe the batter into the molds instead of spooning it.
Let Cool: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack for proper cooling and easier handling.

Coffee Cake Donuts with Vanilla Glaze Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delightful donuts and make them truly your own! Here are some inspiring ideas to customize your treats.

Dairy-Free: Substitute full-fat sour cream with coconut yogurt for a creamy, plant-based version.
A swap like this ensures everyone can enjoy these treats without missing out on flavor!
Chocolate Delight: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, chocolatey experience.
The melted chocolate creates a decadent surprise inside, making each bite irresistible.
Seasonal Spices: Incorporate pumpkin spice or nutmeg in the crumb topping to awaken cozy flavors.
This twist brings a warm, inviting aroma that’s perfect for fall, enticing everyone nearby.
Fruit-Fusion: Gently fold in fresh blueberries or diced apples into the batter for added sweetness and moisture.
This fruity addition not only brightens the flavor but also adds a delightful burst in every bite.
Sugar Substitutes: Use powdered erythritol in the glaze to reduce sugar without sacrificing taste.
Perfect for health-conscious friends, this option keeps the indulgent vibe while being kinder to the waistline!
Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make these donuts accessible to all.
With a good gluten-free mix, you won’t miss the traditional flour, and everyone can join in on the fun!
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Instead of icing, roll freshly baked donuts in cinnamon and sugar for a nostalgic touch.
This option gives a sweet twist reminiscent of childhood fair treats, perfect for a fun gathering!
Coffee Glaze: Replace whole milk in the glaze with brewed coffee for an intensified coffee flavor.
This indulgent choice pairs divine with your morning cup, creating a comforting and energizing way to start the day.

Explore these variations to find what resonates with your taste buds, and don’t hesitate to mix and match! If you’re feeling adventurous, check out these delightful recipes for Crispy Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon and Peach Cake Brown to complement your coffee moments with equally divine flavors. Happy baking!

What to Serve with Coffee Cake Donuts with Vanilla Glaze?

These delightful treats are perfect for enhancing a cozy breakfast—or any moment that calls for a sweet indulgence!

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the donuts.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and berries offers a delightful crunch and creamy balance alongside the donut’s softness.
Steamy Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage is a classic pairing that beautifully complements the rich flavors of coffee cake, making each bite feel even more special.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Warm maple syrup poured over the donuts enhances the sweet profile, enriching the overall experience of flavor.
Savory Bacon Strips: Crispy bacon provides a lovely salty contrast, creating an exciting combination of flavors that will please everyone at the table.
Glazed Nuts: A handful of honey-roasted or spiced nuts brings a satisfying crunch and a touch of sweetness, elevating your snacking moment.
Chocolate Milk: For those who cherish a sweeter treat, pairing these donuts with chocolate milk adds a delightful indulgence that turns any morning into a special occasion.

By thoughtfully choosing these accompaniments, you can transform a simple treat into an enchanting experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Coffee Cake Donuts with Vanilla Glaze are perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix your dry and wet ingredients separately, and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. The crumb topping can also be made ahead and refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days—just remember to chill it in the freezer for about 10 minutes before adding it to the donuts. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients, fill the donut pan, and bake as directed. Rest assured, these make-ahead steps ensure your Coffee Cake Donuts remain just as delightful and fresh-tasting!

Coffee Cake Donuts with Vanilla Glaze Recipe FAQs

How should I select ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When picking items like eggs and dairy, opt for those with a fresh sell-by date. Make sure the sour cream isn’t past its date; it should be creamy and not overly watery. When it comes to butter, go for cold, unsalted butter for the topping. If you can, check for good vanilla extract—pure vanilla offers a much richer flavor than imitation!

How should I store my leftover coffee cake donuts?
For sure! You can store leftover coffee cake donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember that refrigeration may alter their fluffy texture slightly.

Can I freeze these donuts for later?
Certainly! For freezing, I recommend freezing the unglazed donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet for about 2 hours until solid. Then wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just glaze them fresh right before serving for the best taste!

What should I do if my donut batter is overmixed?
The more the merrier when it comes to light, fluffy donuts! If you’ve overmixed your batter and it seems dense, don’t worry too much. While the texture might not be as tender, you can still make delicious donuts. Next time, remember to mix just until combined—this way, your donuts will rise beautifully!

Are there any dietary considerations for these donuts?
Absolutely! If anyone in your household has allergies, be mindful of substitutions. You can make a dairy-free version by using plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream and coconut oil in place of butter. For vegan options, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes) instead of the egg, and opt for almond milk in the glaze. Just ensure everyone can enjoy these delightful baked treats!