Light & Fluffy Strawberry Cake Donuts for a Spring Treat

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Kacper Recipes Team

When the first hints of spring begin to warm the air, my thoughts drift toward delightful brunch gatherings filled with laughter and good food. That s when I pull out this recipe for Strawberry Cake Donuts, and let me tell you, they re a hit every time! These baked wonders are light and fluffy, steering clear of the heaviness that often accompanies traditional fried donuts.

Imagine biting into one of these tender delights, bursting with the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries and finished off with a simple, glossy glaze. They re not just easy to make requiring minimal kitchen prowess but also a treat that feels special without the fuss. Perfect for Mother s Day celebrations or any sunny Saturday morning, these Strawberry Cake Donuts will have everyone asking for seconds. So, let s embrace the season and whip up a batch that will sweeten your springtime moments!

Why are Strawberry Cake Donuts a must-try?

Light and Fluffy: These baked treats offer a cloud-like texture that makes each bite ethereal and satisfying.
Fresh Flavor: The use of ripe strawberries creates a naturally sweet, summery taste that s hard to resist.
Simple to Make: With easy-to-follow steps, anyone regardless of skill can transform their kitchen into a mini bakery.
Versatile Delight: Customize with chocolate chips or lemon zest for unique variations that fit any palate.
Perfect for Gatherings: Serve them at brunch, and watch as they disappear, delighting guests of all ages.

Elevate your spring gatherings with these delicious Strawberry Cake Donuts!

Strawberry Cake Donuts Ingredients

For the Batter
Butter (unsalted) Provides richness and moisture; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
Sugar Adds sweetness; feel free to adjust the amount for a less sweet donut.
Egg Acts as a binder; use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor; opt for pure extract to achieve the best taste.
Buttermilk Adds moisture and tang; replace with plant-based milk plus vinegar for a vegan version.
Cake Flour Ensures a tender crumb; all-purpose flour can be used but may alter texture.
All-Purpose Flour Provides structure; can be substituted with a gluten-free flour blend if needed.
Baking Soda Acts as a leavening agent, helping donuts rise.
Baking Powder Provides additional leavening for an extra fluffy result.
Salt Balances the sweetness.
Strawberries (pureed) The star ingredient for flavor; use fresh strawberries for optimal taste as frozen may change the texture.

For the Glaze
Powdered Sugar Adds sweetness and a smooth texture; adjust liquid for desired thickness.
Milk Helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency; use plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.

Now that you have the ingredients ready, let s gather your loved ones and start creating these scrumptious Strawberry Cake Donuts to bring spring joy to your table!

How to Make Strawberry Cake Donuts

1. Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to a warm 400 °F (200 °C). This ensures even baking, resulting in perfectly cooked donuts.

2. Prepare Strawberries: Trim the stems off your fresh strawberries and toss them into a food processor. Puree until chunky, capturing that beautiful berry flavor ready to marry with the batter.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, blend together the unsalted butter, sugar, and egg using a mixer at medium-high speed for about 2 minutes. Incorporate the vanilla extract, buttermilk, and strawberry puree, mixing until it s all combined and smooth.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in cake flour, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt to your wet mixture. Mix on low speed just until incorporated this helps avoid any overmixing that could toughen your donuts!

5. Fill Donut Molds: Grab a piping bag (or just a plastic bag with one corner cut off) to make filling the molds easier. Lightly grease your donut tins, then fill each mold halfway with the delicious batter.

6. Bake Donuts: Slide these beauties into the preheated oven and bake for about 7-8 minutes. They should spring back lightly when touched this means they re done!

7. Prepare Glaze: While the donuts cool down, whisk together powdered sugar and milk until you achieve the desired glaze consistency. It should be smooth and pourable.

8. Glaze Donuts: Once the donuts are cool, dip them in the glaze and let them sit for about 20-30 minutes to allow the glaze to set perfectly before serving.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Cake Donuts

Room Temperature: Store your Strawberry Cake Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their light and fluffy texture.

Fridge: If you want to keep them a bit longer, you can refrigerate the donuts for up to a week. Be sure to seal them tightly to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts right after cooling. Wrap individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag, where they can be kept for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To enjoy frozen donuts, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to bring back their fluffy goodness.

What to Serve with Strawberry Cake Donuts?

When it comes to creating a delightful brunch spread, these baked donuts are just the beginning of a flavorful and vibrant scene.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of berries, melons, and citrus adds a refreshing brightness, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the donuts.

• Smoothie Bowls: Creamy and nutritious, a berry smoothie bowl complements the strawberry flavor, elevating your breakfast experience.

• Coffee or Tea: The warm, inviting notes of a freshly brewed cup provide a cozy accompaniment, helping enhance the flavors of each bite.

• Yogurt Parfaits: Layering tangy yogurt with granola and fruit not only looks beautiful but creates a crunchy contrast to the fluffy donuts.

• Savory Quiche: A slice of savory quiche offers a delightful textural and flavor balance, ensuring your meal feels complete and satisfying.

• Lemonade or Iced Tea: Refreshing beverages like homemade lemonade or iced tea round out your spread, offering a zesty lift that pairs wonderfully with sugary treats.

• Nut Butter Dips: A dollop of almond or peanut butter adds a nutty twist and protein boost, making each bite of donut even more indulgent.

Choose your favorites and create a joyful table that embodies the essence of spring and good company!

Helpful Tricks for Strawberry Cake Donuts

Don t Overmix: To maintain that light and fluffy texture, mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts.

Fresh is Best: Use ripe, fresh strawberries for a delightful flavor boost. Frozen strawberries may alter the texture and moisture content of your donuts.

Grease Well: Properly grease your donut tins to prevent any sticking. You want to achieve that perfect, beautiful donut shape when they come out.

Glaze Magic: For a thicker glaze, dip the donuts twice or wait until the first layer sets before adding a second coat this adds richness and depth to the flavor.

Customize Flavors: Get creative! Experiment by adding chocolate chips or mixing in citrus zest for a refreshing twist on your Strawberry Cake Donuts.

Make Ahead Options

These Strawberry Cake Donuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Additionally, you can puree and store the strawberries in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you re ready to bake, just fill your donut molds and pop them in the oven for about 7-8 minutes. For the glaze, prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge as well, whisking it back to a smooth consistency before dipping the donuts. This makes for effortless cooking, ensuring your Strawberry Cake Donuts are just as delicious while saving you precious time on busy mornings!

Strawberry Cake Donuts Variations

Feel free to make these delightful donuts your own with a few simple swaps and additions!

• Chocolate Chip: Add semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter for an irresistible sweet twist. The combination of chocolate and strawberries is pure magic!

• Lemon Zest: Incorporate a tablespoon of freshly grated lemon zest for a bright, citrusy zing that complements the strawberries beautifully. This twist perfectly balances sweetness with refreshing flavor.

• Coconut Flakes: Mix in unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flair. It will add texture and a hint of sweetness, transporting your taste buds to a sunny beach!

• Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat that everyone can enjoy without missing out on taste or texture.

• Almond Extract: Replace vanilla extract with almond extract for a nutty, delightful variation that pairs well with strawberries, creating a unique depth of flavor.

• Berry Blend: Use a mix of pureed berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, instead of strawberries to create a colorful, fruity assortment of donuts that adds visual appeal and taste.

• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, comforting flavor that adds coziness to your spring brunch.

• Nutty Crunch: Top the glazed donuts with crushed nuts, such as pistachios or pecans, for an added crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft donuts. It s a texture delight!

Let your creativity shine through and personalize these Strawberry Cake Donuts to suit your flavorful desires!

Strawberry Cake Donuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe strawberries for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Look for strawberries that are vibrant red with a natural sheen. They should feel firm but slightly soft to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or signs of mold. Ripe strawberries will be sweeter and more flavorful, making your donuts even more delightful!

How should I store my Strawberry Cake Donuts?
I recommend storing your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them light and fluffy. If you d like to extend their shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week, ensuring they re sealed well to prevent drying.

Can I freeze Strawberry Cake Donuts, and how?
Certainly! To freeze your donuts, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap once they ve cooled completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last for up to 3 months. When you re ready to enjoy them, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for just a few seconds to refresh their texture.

What should I do if my donuts come out dense?
Very good question! If you find that your donuts have turned out dense, it s likely due to overmixing the batter. Make sure to mix the dry ingredients into the wet just until combined to maintain that fluffy texture. Also, ensure you re measuring flour correctly too much can lead to heaviness.

Are these donuts suitable for my gluten-sensitive friends?
Yes, you can easily make a gluten-free version of Strawberry Cake Donuts! Simply substitute the all-purpose and cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend you choose has a leavening agent in it to ensure they remain fluffy and delightful.

Can pets eat these donuts?
While these Strawberry Cake Donuts are delicious for humans, they contain ingredients like sugar and butter that are not ideal for pets. It s best to keep these sweet treats for yourself and find a pet-friendly recipe if you want to share a snack with your furry friends!