Name: Fluffy Strawberry Baked Donuts That Kids Will Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 32 min
Ingredients: 1 box strawberry cake mix (or chocolate/funfetti cake mix as alternatives); 1 large egg (binds the ingredients together); 1/4 cup vegetable oil (can substitute with melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce); 3/4 cup water (or milk for a creamier flavor); 1 cup fresh strawberries (chopped; blueberries can be an alternative); 1 cup confectioners sugar (or powdered monk fruit for a low-calorie option); 2 tablespoons milk (non-dairy options like almond or oat milk work well)

The aroma of strawberries mingling with warm, fresh dough was enough to pivot my afternoon into something extraordinary. Enter these Easy Strawberry Baked Donuts, the sweet concoction that transforms simple ingredients into bubbly delight. Perfect for both kitchen novices and seasoned home chefs, this recipe is not only quick and easy but also invites the whole family to join in the fun. With a bright pop of flavor and a fluffy, cake-like texture, these donuts are an ideal choice for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat any time of day. Plus, they’re versatile—substituting with chocolate cake mix means you’re never far from your next chocolate fix! Curious to see just how delicious homemade donuts can be? Let’s dive into this berry delight!

Why are These Donuts So Irresistible?

Light and Fluffy: These donuts are a delightful treat that feels like biting into a cloud of sweetness, offering a perfect breakfast or snack option.
Quick and Easy: Made with just a cake mix, you can whip these up in no time, making them ideal for busy mornings or spontaneous cravings.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the little ones in the kitchen, as they’ll love helping to mix and decorate—great for memorable family moments!
Versatile Options: Whether you stick to strawberries or mix it up with different cake flavors, the possibilities are endless [Cucumber Strawberry Salad](https://quickeasydishes.com/cucumber-strawberry-salad-refreshing-recipe/) for creativity!
Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the burst of flavor from fresh strawberries, providing a natural sweetness that’s far superior to store-bought pastries.
Perfect for Any Occasion: These donuts shine at brunches or birthday parties, ensuring they please everyone, making them a go-to recipe in your collection.

Strawberry Baked Donuts Ingredients

• For the Batter

Strawberry Cake Mix – Provides the delicious base for your donuts; you can also use chocolate or funfetti cake mix for a tasty twist.
Large Egg – Binds the ingredients together, ensuring a moist texture; no substitutes recommended for the best results.
Vegetable Oil – Keeps your donuts tender; feel free to swap with melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce for a lighter option.
Water – Hydrates the batter perfectly; you might try milk for a creamier flavor profile instead.

• For the Topping

Fresh Strawberries (chopped) – Adds delightful freshness and sweetness; blueberries can be a lovely alternative, too!
Confectioners Sugar – Used to create icing with a sweet finish; consider powdered monk fruit for a low-calorie alternative.
Milk – Helps to achieve a smooth icing texture; non-dairy options like almond or oat milk work well here.

Indulge in these Strawberry Baked Donuts and warm your heart and home with every bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Strawberry Baked Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for ensuring that your Strawberry Baked Donuts rise perfectly and bake evenly. Allow about 10 to 15 minutes for the oven to reach the desired temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Pan
While the oven heats up, take your donut pan and generously coat it with cooking spray. This will prevent the donuts from sticking, allowing them to pop out easily once baked. Make sure each cavity is well coated for a smooth release.

Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the strawberry cake mix, one large egg, vegetable oil, and water. Use a whisk or a spatula to mix until the batter is smooth and well blended, about 2 to 3 minutes. The final mixture should be thick yet pourable, filled with vibrant strawberry flavor.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan
Transfer the prepared batter into a ziplock bag and cut off one corner to create a makeshift piping bag. Pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity halfway. This allows ample room for your Strawberry Baked Donuts to rise beautifully without overflowing.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts
Carefully place the filled donut pan into the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The donuts are done when they spring back lightly to the touch, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!

Step 6: Cool the Donuts
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. After cooling, carefully turn the pan upside down to release the donuts onto a cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely—this will help the icing set better later.

Step 7: Prepare the Icing
In a medium bowl, mix the confectioners sugar with milk until smooth and creamy. The icing should be pourable but thick enough to stay on top of the donuts without running off. Adjust the consistency by adding more sugar or milk as needed for your preferred texture.

Step 8: Ice and Garnish the Donuts
Once the donuts are completely cool, drizzle the prepared icing over each one generously. For an extra delightful touch, top them with sprinkles or additional chopped strawberries. Allow the icing to set for a few minutes before serving these delightful Strawberry Baked Donuts!

Helpful Tricks for Strawberry Baked Donuts

Oven Temperature: Always ensure your oven is fully preheated, as this helps achieve that perfect fluffy texture in your strawberry baked donuts.
Donut Pan Care: Generously coat the donut pan with cooking spray to easily release the baked donuts without breaking.
Batter Filling: Fill the donut cavities halfway to allow room for rising; overfilling can lead to messy spills over the edges.
Icing Consistency: Adjust the milk and confectioners sugar mixture to achieve your desired icing thickness; a thicker icing will stay nicely on top.
Cooling Time: Let the donuts cool completely before icing to keep the icing from melting and losing its texture.
Storage Tips: Store your leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness; they’re best enjoyed within two days at room temperature.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Baked Donuts

Room Temperature: Store your strawberry baked donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Fridge: For extra freshness, refrigerate the donuts for up to 4 days. Just make sure they’re sealed tightly to avoid becoming dry.

Freezer: If you need to keep them longer, freeze the donuts for up to 2 months. Wrap each donut in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating: Thaw frozen donuts in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Reheat in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked taste!

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Strawberry Baked Donuts are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; this ensures your donuts remain just as delicious when baked fresh. Additionally, you can slice the fresh strawberries for topping and keep them in a sealed container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your treats, simply pipe the batter into the donut pan and bake as directed—this way, you save time without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, having these ready to go makes busy mornings a breeze!

Strawberry Baked Donuts Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine and customize these donuts to match your family’s taste preferences!

Chocolatey Twist: Swap the strawberry cake mix for chocolate or devil’s food cake mix for a rich indulgence. Imagine warm chocolate donuts drizzled with strawberry icing—pure bliss!
Mini Muffin Magic: Use mini muffin pans instead of a donut pan for bite-sized treats perfect for little fingers. They’re just the right size for an adorable snack!
Add Spices: Sprinkle in a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor and elevate your donut experience with a warm, cozy twist.
Fruit Fusion: Instead of fresh strawberries, try substituting with blueberries, raspberries, or even diced peaches for a surprise flavor sensation. Each bite will offer a different fruity delight.
Healthier Icing: Replace confectioners sugar with powdered monk fruit for a delicious and guilt-free icing. Your sweet tooth will thank you, while keeping it light!
Nutty Crunch: Top your donuts with chopped nuts, like pecans or almonds, for added crunch and a delightful texture contrast. It’s a deliciously unexpected surprise!
Dairy-Free Delight: Swap regular milk with almond or oat milk in your icing for a dairy-free option that’s equally creamy and delicious, perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Citrus Zest: Add some lemon or orange zest to your batter for a refreshing brightness that pairs delightfully with strawberries, bringing a zing to each fluffy bite.

You can also explore other delightful recipes like the refreshing [Cucumber Strawberry Salad](https://quickeasydishes.com/cucumber-strawberry-salad-refreshing-recipe/) or make cheerful memories with your kids in the kitchen as you whip up these versatile treats!

What to Serve with Strawberry Baked Donuts?

Experience a delightful meal by combining these fluffy, sweet treats with complementary flavors and textures that will warm your heart.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and colorful, a mix of berries and citrus balances the sweetness, creating a refreshing side.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer your donuts with yogurt and granola for a delightful texture contrast and protein boost to your breakfast.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup offers a cozy pairing, enhancing the delightful strawberry flavors and providing a comforting start to your day.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Add a sweet touch by drizzling pure maple syrup over the donuts, which harmonizes beautifully with their flavor.
Scrambled Eggs: The savory taste of scrambled eggs alongside sweet donuts creates a well-rounded breakfast that pleases everyone.
Chocolate Milk: For a kid-friendly twist, serve with a glass of chocolate milk that pairs deliciously with the strawberry sweetness.

Strawberry Baked Donuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe strawberries for the donuts?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are firm, vibrant red, and free from any dark spots or bruising. The sweeter the strawberries, the more flavorful your donuts will be! When selecting, make sure they have a sweet fragrance, which indicates ripeness.

What is the best way to store strawberry baked donuts?
Store your strawberry baked donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh. If you want to extend their life, refrigerate them for up to 4 days—but make sure they are well-sealed to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze my strawberry baked donuts?
Yes! To freeze your donuts, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw them in the fridge overnight or at room temperature, and reheat them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked taste!

What should I do if my donut batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick or dry, it may be due to variations in cake mix brands or measuring discrepancies. Simply add a tablespoon of water or milk at a time, mixing well, until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. This will help ensure fluffy, light donuts that you’ll love!

Can I make substitutions for dietary restrictions?
Very much! If you have specific dietary needs, you can swap the vegetable oil for melted coconut oil or unsweetened applesauce. You can also use gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free version. For non-dairy alternatives, almond or oat milk work perfectly well in the icing. Plus, if anyone has allergies to strawberries, feel free to use blueberries or raspberries for that fresh, fruity taste!

Is it okay for my pets to eat strawberry baked donuts?
No, it’s not safe for pets. While strawberries are safe for dogs in moderation, baked goods often contain sugar and other ingredients that can upset their stomachs or even be toxic. Always keep these delicious strawberry baked donuts out of the reach of your furry friends!