A tropical twist on a classic treat, these Key Lime Coconut Donuts are fluffy, zesty, and perfectly sweet. Baked instead of fried, they’re infused with fresh lime juice and topped with a rich coconut glaze. Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, these donuts deliver island-inspired flavor in every bite.
FULL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup full-fat Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons key lime juice (or regular lime juice)
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1.For the glaze:
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1 tablespoon coconut milk (or regular milk)
- 1 tablespoon key lime juice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup sweetened shredded coconut (toasted, optional, for topping)
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a donut pan and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine yogurt, buttermilk, melted butter, egg, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Spoon the batter into a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe the batter evenly into the prepared donut pan.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until donuts spring back when lightly pressed.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, coconut milk, lime juice, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Dip cooled donuts into the glaze and sprinkle with toasted coconut if desired. Allow glaze to set before serving.
Nutritional Information
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 120mg
Flavor Profile and Inspiration
The Key Lime Coconut Donuts combine the zesty brightness of key lime with the sweet, nutty essence of coconut. The tart lime juice balances the sweetness of the glaze while the coconut adds a tropical flair. Inspired by classic key lime pie and coconut desserts, this recipe brings a refreshing twist to traditional baked goods.
Texture and Mouthfeel
These donuts have a soft, tender crumb due to the Greek yogurt and buttermilk in the batter. They’re baked rather than fried, resulting in a light, fluffy texture. The glaze adds a smooth, slightly sticky finish, and the shredded coconut provides a delightful chew and crunch when toasted.
Why Use Key Lime Juice
Key limes have a more intense, aromatic flavor compared to regular limes. Their unique citrusy tang brings authenticity and complexity to the donuts, making them stand out among ordinary lime-flavored baked goods.
Greek Yogurt Benefits
Greek yogurt is used not only to add moisture and tenderness but also to boost the protein content of the donuts. It contributes a mild tang that complements the lime flavor and helps achieve a creamy, rich batter without extra fat.
Buttermilk’s Role
Buttermilk contributes to the donuts’ airy texture by reacting with baking soda to create a rise. It also adds a subtle tanginess that deepens the overall flavor profile without overpowering the lime or coconut notes.
Coconut Glaze Secrets
The glaze features both lime juice and coconut milk, providing a balance between sweet and citrusy. This fusion of flavors enhances the donut’s tropical appeal. The glaze is thick enough to coat without being overly heavy and sets beautifully once applied.
Toasted Coconut as a Topping
Toasting the shredded coconut intensifies its flavor and adds a golden, slightly crisp finish. It not only elevates the visual appeal but also contributes texture, making each bite dynamic and satisfying.
Healthier Baked Alternative
Unlike traditional fried donuts, these are baked, making them a lighter option. Baking cuts down on oil and calories while still delivering a satisfying treat. It’s a great way to enjoy indulgent flavors without the guilt.
Perfect for Brunch
Key Lime Coconut Donuts are a standout addition to any brunch spread. Their bright, tropical flavor pairs well with coffee, tea, or mimosas. They’re elegant enough for entertaining but simple enough to make ahead for casual gatherings.
Ideal for Summer Desserts
This donut recipe captures the essence of summer with its citrus and coconut flavors. It’s a perfect dessert for warm weather, barbecues, or beach-themed parties, offering a refreshing break from chocolate-heavy treats.
Kid-Friendly Treat
Kids love the sweet glaze and fun presentation of these donuts. The mild tartness is balanced enough for younger palates, and the bright glaze can be easily decorated with colorful sprinkles or edible flowers for extra fun.
Freezing and Storage Tips
These donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. They also freeze well—simply freeze them unglazed and apply the glaze after thawing for best texture and taste.
Gluten-Free Adaptation
To make a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain the donut’s structure and softness.
Dairy-Free Substitution Options
For a dairy-free version, swap out the buttermilk with almond or oat milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar. Replace Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt and use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative instead of regular butter.
Customizing the Glaze
The glaze can be customized with added zest, a touch of honey, or even a drop of coconut extract to intensify the tropical notes. For a different aesthetic, add a tiny bit of green food coloring for a pastel look or top with crushed nuts for texture.
Using Regular Lime Juice
If key limes are unavailable, regular lime juice works well as a substitute. Though less aromatic, it still provides enough tanginess and freshness to maintain the donut’s citrus-forward identity.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
Serve these donuts on a white platter to highlight the contrast of the green-tinted glaze and golden coconut. Garnish with extra lime zest or edible flowers for a stunning, Instagram-worthy finish at parties or events.
Small-Batch Friendly
This recipe is easily halved for a small-batch treat, making it ideal for cozy weekends or solo baking. It’s also a great recipe for first-time donut bakers because of its simplicity and forgiving batter.
Fun Baking Activity
These donuts are fun to make with kids or friends. Piping the batter and glazing the donuts can be a hands-on activity. They’re quick to prepare and offer creative freedom in decorating and presentation.
Conclusion
Key Lime Coconut Donuts are a fresh, vibrant take on traditional donuts that celebrate tropical flavors in a balanced and approachable way. With their soft texture, zesty glaze, and customizable toppings, they offer a delightful experience from start to finish. Whether served at brunch, given as gifts, or enjoyed as a weekday treat, these donuts bring a burst of sunshine to every bite. Their adaptability to various dietary needs and easy preparation make them a staple recipe to revisit throughout the year.