Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts

There’s something incredibly special about the aroma of fresh doughnuts wafting through the air, and when I think of my favorite indulgence, Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts comes to mind. These delightful treats have a unique twist that combines the creamy richness of ricotta with the bright zing of lemon, creating an unforgettable flavor profile that just screams comfort. I can still recall the first time I made them; it was a rainy afternoon, and my kitchen transformed into a haven of warmth and sweetness. Each bite of a freshly glazed doughnut was like a hug from the inside out, perfect for those cozy moments spent with loved ones.

As I rolled out the dough, laughter echoed in the kitchen. I remember my friends and I playfully debating the best toppings, but honestly, the tangy glaze made from fresh Meyer lemons and mascarpone was unbeatable. These doughnuts have a way of bringing people together, whether it’s for brunch, a dessert table, or even just a sweet snack at the end of a long day. Trust me, there’s no wrong time for Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts.

So, whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice just starting, I promise that this recipe will fill your home with joy and create memories that last a lifetime. The beauty of these doughnuts lies in their simplicity and their ability to cater to the sweet tooth in all of us. So, let’s dive in and whip up a batch of happiness!

Ingredients You’ll Need for Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts

The ingredients for Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts are not only simple but also work beautifully together to create a perfect balance of flavor and texture. The star players include eggs, which provide structure; ricotta cheese, which adds moisture; and lemon, which gives that refreshing, zesty kick. Each component plays a vital role in crafting a delectable treat that can brighten any occasion.

• 2 eggs – These will provide the necessary moisture and help bind the ingredients together.
• 3/4 cup whole milk ricotta cheese – This gives the doughnuts a rich, creamy texture that is simply delightful.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor profile with a warm sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and flavor.
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – The base of our doughnuts, providing structure.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – This will help our doughnuts rise and become fluffy.
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar – For that perfect touch of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
• zest of 1 Meyer lemon – This adds a fresh citrusy aroma.
• 2 cups powdered sugar – Essential for our sweet glaze.
• juice of 2 Meyer lemons – For the tangy glaze that complements the doughnuts.
• 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese at room temperature – Adds creaminess to our glaze.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – For flavoring the glaze.

How to Assemble Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts

Ready to dive into the deliciousness? Making Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts is a fun and satisfying experience. Let’s get started with the step-by-step guide to creating these delightful treats that will make your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds dance.

1. In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, ricotta, vanilla, and butter until smooth. You’ll want to ensure everything is well combined, achieving a creamy consistency. The mixture should be thick yet pourable, so don’t be afraid to mix for a minute or two.
2. Add the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and lemon zest to the egg mixture. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Cover the bowl and let the batter sit for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Meanwhile, heat two inches of oil in a deep pot to 350 degrees F. It’s crucial to reach the right temperature so your doughnuts can fry perfectly without becoming greasy.
4. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use your favorite doughnut or cookie cutters to cut out rounds of dough. If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, you can use two different-sized round cutters to create the classic shape.
5. Working in batches, carefully place the doughnuts into the hot oil using a slotted metal spoon or spatula. Fry them for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side, watching closely until they turn a light golden brown and puff up. This step is where the magic happens!
6. Once fried, drain the doughnuts on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess grease. This will ensure they maintain a light and fluffy texture.
7. To make the glaze, in a medium bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, mascarpone, and vanilla until smooth and combined. If your glaze is too thick, feel free to thin it by adding water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Invert each doughnut into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place them on a wire rack to set for about 5 minutes. This is the hardest part—waiting for that glaze to set!
9. Enjoy your Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts while they are fresh and warm. They are best eaten the day they are made, but trust me, they’ll still taste great the next day!

Substitutions and Tips

Here’s a collection of helpful tips and tricks to ensure your Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts turn out delicious every time. Each point offers insights into storage, freezing, and making the most of your doughnut experience.

• Storage: Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to one week.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unglazed doughnuts for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature and glaze before serving.
• Pairing: These doughnuts pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect afternoon treat.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment with different glazes, such as a chocolate glaze or a simple sugar glaze, for variety.
• Serving Ideas: Serve these doughnuts at brunch, parties, or as a delightful dessert to impress your guests.

What to Pair With Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts

Serving Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts can be a delightful experience, especially when you think about what to pair them with. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience:

• Fresh Berries: A side of mixed fresh berries adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the doughnuts.
• Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee complements the sweetness of the doughnuts and is a classic pairing.
• Tea: Herbal or black tea can serve as a lighter option to enjoy alongside these treats.
• Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt can balance the sweetness and add a creamy texture.
• Brunch Buffet: Serve these doughnuts as part of a brunch buffet with a variety of other breakfast items, such as pancakes and fruit salads.
• Seasonal Celebrations: They can be a sweet addition to your seasonal gatherings, from spring picnics to cozy winter holidays.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts truly stand out with their unique flavor and comforting texture. Making them is not just about enjoying a sweet treat; it’s about creating special moments in your kitchen. I encourage you to try this recipe and share the joy of these delightful doughnuts with your family and friends. Happy baking!

Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Lemon Ricotta Old Fashioned Doughnuts are fluffy, tangy, and irresistible. Their unique flavor, enriched by creamy ricotta and zesty lemon, makes them perfect for brunch or dessert. You'll crave these easy-to-make doughnuts that will brighten any occasion!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Servings 12 doughnuts

Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing Bowl

Ingredients

  

• 2 whole eggs
• 3/4 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 whole zest of 1 Meyer lemon
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 whole juice of 2 Meyer lemons
• 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• In a medium mixing bowl, beat together the eggs, ricotta, vanilla, and butter until smooth. Add the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and lemon zest and beat until just combined. Cover and let sit 10-15 minutes.
• Heat 2 inches of oil to 350 degrees F.
• Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the dough to a 1/2-inch thickness. Using doughnut or cookie cutters, cut out round of dough.
• Working in batches, use a slotted metal spoon or spatula to carefully place the doughnuts in the hot oil. Fry, flipping once, until light golden brown and puffed, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Drain on a paper towel lined plate.
• To make the Glaze. In a medium bowl, beat together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, mascarpone, and vanilla until smooth and combined. If needed, thin the glaze by adding water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
• Invert the doughnut into the glaze. Allow to set 5 minutes or so. Enjoy! These are best eaten the day of making, but taste great the next day too!

Notes

These doughnuts are best when fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for a day or two. Freezing is an option, too!

Keyword Easy Doughnut Recipe, Homemade Doughnuts, Lemon Doughnuts, Ricotta Doughnuts