Step-by-step instructions

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
In a separate bowl, mix together the buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
Gradually combine the wet and dry mixtures, stirring gently just until incorporated. Be cautious not to overmix. Carefully fold in the blueberries, taking care not to break them.
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches to avoid crowding.
Fry the donut holes for 2-3 minutes, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels.
Prepare the citrus glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, lemon juice, orange zest, and milk until smooth and pourable.
Dip each donut hole into the citrus glaze, then place on a wire rack to allow the glaze to set.
Fill each cooled donut hole with lemon curd by inserting a small piping bag fitted with a narrow tip and gently squeezing.
Serve fresh, and enjoy the delightful burst of flavors!

Best ways to enjoy it

These Blueberry Cake Donut Holes are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer, still warm and dripping with citrus glaze. Pair them with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful mid-morning treat, or present them at your next brunch gathering alongside fresh fruit and yogurt. Piling them in a beautiful serving dish garnished with more blueberries or lemon zest can elevate their presentation. You can also serve them with a side of extra lemon curd for those who crave a little more zing!

Keeping leftovers fresh

To keep your donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to preserve them for longer, consider freezing them. Place cooled donut holes in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain that delightful texture.

Helpful cooking tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying – you can test this by dropping in a small piece of batter; it should sizzle upon contact.
If you’re short on time, feel free to skip the lemon curd filling for a simpler treat, or opt for store-bought if you prefer.

Creative twists

Looking to mix things up? Here are some variations you might enjoy:

Swap blueberries for other berries like raspberries or blackberries.
Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for some crunch in the donut dough.
Experiment with flavored extracts, like almond or coconut, instead of vanilla for a unique twist.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some coarse sea salt over the glaze before it sets for a sweet-savory combination.

Common questions

How long does it take to prepare these donut holes?

The entire process, from mixing to frying, takes about 30-40 minutes, making them a quick treat.

Can I use frozen blueberries instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture from them before folding into the batter to avoid excess liquid.

Are they suitable for freezing?

Yes, these donut holes freeze well! Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in an airtight container.

Enjoy your baking adventure with these delightful Blueberry Cake Donut Holes! They’re sure to become a favorite recipe in your collection.