Indulging in these Lemon Blueberry Donuts isn’t just a culinary experience; it’s a guilt-free journey into the realm of balanced and mindful eating, especially for those adhering to the W-W program. With a mere 1 Smart Point per serving, these donuts redefine the concept of healthy treats, proving that you don’t have to compromise flavor for a nutritious choice.
The recipe begins with a careful selection of ingredients that strike a harmonious balance between taste and wellness. All-purpose flour provides the classic donut texture, while a sugar substitute like Stevia or monk fruit imparts sweetness without the added calories. Baking powder and baking soda ensure the perfect rise, creating a light and fluffy donut base. The addition of a pinch of salt elevates the overall flavor profile.
What sets these donuts apart is the ingenious use of unsweetened applesauce, which not only contributes to the moistness of the batter but also replaces traditional sources of added sugars. The choice of unsweetened almond milk further reduces the calorie count, delivering a subtle nutty undertone that complements the other ingredients. A single egg binds the mixture, and a splash of vanilla extract adds a touch of warmth.
The star players, however, are the lemon zest and blueberries. The zest, with its citrusy aroma, infuses the donuts with a burst of freshness, awakening the taste buds with every bite. The blueberries, whether fresh or frozen, introduce a juicy sweetness that’s punctuated by delightful bursts of color. Folding these plump berries into the batter ensures an even distribution throughout each donut.
As the donuts bake, the kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma, a prelude to the delightful experience that awaits. The result is a batch of golden-hued, perfectly baked donuts with a delicate crispness on the outside and a tender crumb within. Allowing them to cool slightly in the pan ensures they maintain their shape before transferring to a wire rack, where they cool to perfection.
These Lemon Blueberry Donuts are not just a breakfast option; they serve as a versatile treat suitable for any time of day. Whether enjoyed with a morning coffee, as a midday snack, or as a guilt-free dessert, these donuts offer a tantalizing escape into the world of balanced indulgence. The fusion of zesty lemon and sweet blueberries creates a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate, making every bite a celebration of mindful and delicious eating.
Lemon Blueberry Donuts – 1 WW Smart Point!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar substitute (such as Stevia or monk fruit)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar substitute, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine the applesauce, almond milk, egg, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix well.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the blueberries.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.