Tea Donuts

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Sweet and fragrant tea donuts with warm spices and lemon zest, perfect for a quick snack or breakfast that appeals to all ages and complements a cup of tea or coffee.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 c. flour
  • 1/4 tsp. salt
  • 2 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp. nutmeg
  • 1/2 c. sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 Tbsp. oleo
  • 1/2 c. milk
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • grated rind of 1 lemon

Instructions

  1. Combine flour, salt, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl.
  2. Beat in egg, sugar, and oleo until well mixed.
  3. Add flour and milk alternately, mixing after each addition.
  4. Beat the mixture until smooth.
  5. Fold in vanilla and lemon rind gently.
  6. Drop teaspoonfuls of batter into hot grease and fry until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, make sure not to overmix the batter once the flour is added. If you don't have oleo, unsalted butter can be substituted in the same quantity. Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or allspice for a unique twist. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose.

Serving Suggestions

These tea donuts are delightful served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze. Pair them with a cup of your favorite tea for a relaxing treat. They also make a great addition to a brunch spread alongside fresh fruit or a light salad such as Potato Fruit Salad.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave for 10-15 seconds. For a crispier exterior, you can also warm them in an oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Tea Donuts contains roughly 357 calories, with 5g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 889mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).

357 kcal 18% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.7g 9% DV
Total Fat 17.6g 23% DV
Carbs 46.8g 17% DV
Fiber 6.6g 24% DV
Sugar 18g 36% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 889.2mg 39% DV
Potassium 211.3mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 3.2mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 58.1mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 5.8mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 3% DV
Calcium 350.6mg 27% DV
Iron 3.5mg 19% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?

Yes, almond milk can be used as a substitute for regular milk in this recipe. However, keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the donuts.

What type of oil is best for frying the donuts?

A neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil is ideal for frying tea donuts. These oils have a high smoke point and won't impart any strong flavors, allowing the spices in the donuts to shine.

Can I make these donuts in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 hours. However, for the best texture, it's recommended to fry the donuts fresh right before serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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