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Cranberry Cornmeal Donuts

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These cranberry cornmeal donuts are soft, lightly sweet, and filled with tart cranberry flavor and warm spices. The subtle crunch of cornmeal and bright orange zest make them a cozy baked treat perfect for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup fine cornmeal
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup melted butter or oil
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fresh or dried cranberries
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • Optional glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp orange juice
  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a donut pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and sugar.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
  4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  5. Fold in the cranberries and orange zest gently.
  6. Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full.
  7. Bake for 13–16 minutes, or until the donuts are lightly golden and spring back when touched.
  8. Let the donuts cool in the pan for several minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  9. If using the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, orange juice, and vanilla extract until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled donuts.
  10. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Frozen cranberries can be used without thawing.
  • Fine cornmeal creates the best tender texture.
  • Buttermilk may be substituted for regular milk for extra richness.
  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months and thaw before serving.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the donuts soft and tender.
  • Mini donut pans can be used with a slightly shorter baking time.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cranberry-cornmeal-donuts-2/