Lemon Lavender Sourdough Donuts Recipe

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Indulge in the delightful flavors of lemon and lavender with these charming sourdough donuts. This recipe combines the tangy taste of lemon zest and the delicate aroma of lavender buds to create a unique and elegant treat. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these homemade lemon lavender doughnuts are full of natural flavoring. Let’s dive into the recipe!

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Health Benefits of Sourdough

One of the great aspects of making these lemon lavender sourdough donuts is the health benefits that come from using a sourdough starter. Sourdough is known for its easier digestibility compared to regular bread due to the fermentation process, which helps break down gluten and makes nutrients more bioavailable.

Additionally, the natural fermentation process enhances the flavor and provides a unique tang that complements the sweetness of the lemon and the floral notes of lavender. Using a sourdough starter also means you’re incorporating beneficial bacteria into your diet, which can support gut health. So, while you’re indulging in these delicious treats, you’re also enjoying some of the health benefits that come with sourdough baking.

Ingredients Needed for Lemon Lavender Sourdough Donuts

For the Dough

• 1.5 cups milk
• 5 cups all purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 cup active sourdough starter
• 1 tbsp dried culinary lavender buds
• 1 tsp salt
• Oil for frying (tallow, avocado oil, or coconut oil)

For the Glaze

• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1-2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh lemon juice is best)

Instructions for Lemon Lavender Sourdough Donuts

Prepare the Dough

Heat Wet Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine 1.5 cups of milk, 3/4 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of butter, and 1 tablespoon of dried lavender buds over low-medium heat. Stir continuously until the sugar is fully dissolved. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the lavender infuse into the liquid.

Cool Mixture

Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly until it is warm but not hot to touch.

Mix Dough

In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, add 5 cups of flour. Pour the cooled milk mixture into the flour. Attach the dough hook to the stand mixer and begin mixing on low speed.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Slowly add 2 eggs, 1 cup of active sourdough starter, and 1 teaspoon of salt to the bowl. Continue mixing until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Knead the Dough

Increase the mixer speed to medium and knead the dough for about 10 minutes or until the dough pulls away from the edges of the bowl and becomes smooth and elastic.

First Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp tea towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for 6-8 hours, or until it has doubled in size. After this initial rise, place the dough in the refrigerator to rest overnight.

Shape the Doughnuts

Roll Out Dough

The next day, flour a clean work surface and use a rolling pin to roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick.

Cut Doughnuts

Use a cup or biscuit cutter to cut the dough into circles. To create the classic doughnut shape, poke a hole through the center of each circle and gently stretch it to form a ring.  We like to use the leftover dough for doughnut holes. 

Second Rise

Place the cut doughnuts on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Cover them with a damp towel and allow them to rise for another 2 hours, or until they have puffed up.

Fry the Doughnuts

Heat Oil

In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat your chosen oil (tallow, avocado oil, or coconut oil) to medium heat, about 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil maintains a consistent temperature.

Fry Doughnuts

Carefully place a few doughnuts at a time into the hot oil, making sure each donut has enough room and you aren’t overcrowding the pan. Fry each side for about 2 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Drain and Cool

Use a slotted spoon to remove the doughnuts from the oil and place them on a cooling rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Prepare the Lemon Glaze

Combine Ingredients

In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over low heat. Add 2 cups of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Dip Doughnuts

Once the doughnuts are cool enough to handle, dip one side of each doughnut into the glaze. Place them back on the cooling rack to allow the glaze to set. For extra flavor and presentation, garnish with lemon zest or additional dried lavender flowers if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Elegant Gathering

Serve these lemon lavender sourdough donuts at elegant gatherings, garden parties, or brunches to impress your guests with their unique flavor combination.

Breakfast or Brunch

Enjoy this special treat as a delightful breakfast or brunch option, paired with a cup of coffee or tea.

Dessert

These donuts make a fantastic dessert option. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Snack

Perfect for a sweet afternoon snack on a breezy summer’s day, these donuts are great on their own or with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Storage Tips

Airtight Container

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed fresh but can be kept for up to two days.

Refrigeration

If you prefer, you can refrigerate the donuts to extend their shelf life. When ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven at a low temperature to regain their softness.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the doughnuts. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven before serving.

Customizing Your Donuts

One of the best parts about making homemade lemon lavender sourdough donuts is the ability to customize them to your liking. You can experiment with different flavors and toppings to suit your taste. Try adding a hint of vanilla bean paste to the dough for an extra layer of flavor or swap the lavender buds for dried culinary rose petals for a floral twist. For a more indulgent treat, drizzle melted white chocolate over the glazed donuts or sprinkle them with crushed pistachios. You can also play around with the glaze by using different citrus juices, such as orange or lime, to change up the flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create many delicious recipes that are uniquely yours.

Conclusion

Making these lemon lavender sourdough donuts is a wonderful way to bring a touch of elegance to your baking skills. We are lovers of all things lavender and the combination of delicious lemon and aromatic lavender creates a delightful flavor that is sure to impress. Enjoy these fluffy doughnuts and share them with loved ones for a truly special experience.

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