The soft, muffled sound of baking in the kitchen is one of my favorite symphonies. Today, it’s accompanied by the enchanting aroma of floral notes drifting through the air, promising something truly special. Let me introduce you to Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts—a delightful treat that transforms simple ingredients into sweet, airy bites of happiness.
I discovered this recipe during a lovely spring afternoon, when our garden was bursting with vibrant Violas just waiting to be picked. These gluten-free donuts offer a unique blend of subtly sweet flavor and the understated elegance of edible flowers. They’re perfect for a cozy brunch with friends or a gentle pick-me-up on a quiet afternoon. Not only are they easy to make, but they bring a touch of whimsical charm to your table—making them the perfect antidote to any mundane meal.
Join me in crafting these light, floral delights that promise to elevate your dessert game and add a splash of color to your culinary repertoire!
Why are Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts special?
Unique Flavor: The infused floral notes from Violas create an extraordinary taste that elevates traditional donuts.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, these treats ensure everyone can indulge without worry.
Visual Appeal: The stunning lilac glaze makes these donuts not just a treat for the palate but a feast for the eyes, ideal for any gathering.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can whip these donuts up in no time, making them the perfect solution for unexpected guests!
Versatile Delight: Experiment with various edible flowers or flavored glazes to create your signature version of these charming donuts.
Crowd Favorite: Whether at brunch or an afternoon snack, they’re sure to impress family and friends, leaving everyone smiling after every bite!
Viola Gluten-Free Donut Ingredients
For the Batter
- 3 cups Cup 4 Cup gluten-free flour – Provides structure and body; substitute with any other gluten-free flour blend.
- 1 tsp baking powder – Ensures donuts rise properly; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- 1 tsp salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 3 large eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; use flax eggs for a vegan option.
- 1/4 cup honey – A natural sweetener that adds moisture; maple syrup can be a suitable replacement.
- 1 and 1/4 sticks butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture to the donuts; substitute with coconut oil for dairy-free.
- 2/3 cup Violas (fresh or dried) – Delivers fabulous floral flavor and visual appeal; replace with other edible flowers or omit for simpler taste.
- 1 tbsp fresh, chopped Violas – Enhances floral flavor and serves as a lovely garnish.
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweet glaze component that adds a delightful finish.
- 1 tbsp purple sweet potato powder (optional) – Adds color to the glaze; omit for a pale lilac hue.
- 1-2 tbsp leftover Viola tea – Provides a thin consistency and additional floral notes in the glaze; adjust to your taste preferences.
With these ingredients in hand, you can create Ashley Moore’s delightful Viola Gluten-Free Donuts, ensuring every bite is a celebration of flavor and fun!
How to Make Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Begin by preparing your silicone donut molds to ensure easy release after baking; greasing them lightly can help too.
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Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups of gluten-free flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt until well combined and fluffy.
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Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, beat 3 large eggs, then add 1 and 1/4 sticks of melted butter, 1/4 cup of honey, and the chopped Violas, mixing until smooth and well-combined.
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Incorporate wet and dry mixtures: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Be careful to mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to denser donuts.
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Fill molds: Spoon the batter into the donut molds, filling them about 3/4 full to allow for rising. A piping bag can help for a mess-free fill!
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Bake: Place the molds in your preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Watch closely to avoid overbaking.
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Cool: Remove from the oven and let the donuts cool in the mold for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Prepare glaze: In a bowl, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with purple sweet potato powder (if desired) and enough Viola tea to achieve a smooth, dipping consistency.
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Glaze donuts: Once cooled, dip the tops of your donuts into the glaze. Allow the excess to drip off, letting the glaze set on a cooling rack.
Optional: Garnish with extra chopped Violas for an added touch of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Viola Gluten-Free Donuts?
These enchanting donuts are perfect for a delightful spring brunch or a whimsical afternoon snack, pairing beautifully with a variety of complementing dishes.
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Earl Grey Tea: The floral notes in this tea echo the Violas, creating a fragrant experience that enhances the delicate flavors of the donuts.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Juicy berries and citrus offer a burst of freshness, balancing the sweetness of the donuts while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
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Lemon Curd: The tangy and zesty curd adds a wonderful contrast to the donuts’ sweetness, creating a delicious interplay of flavors on your palate.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of vanilla-infused whipped cream makes a creamy companion, enhancing the overall indulgence of each bite.
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Iced Lavender Latte: This refreshing drink harmonizes with the floral essence of the donuts, making it a delightful choice for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up.
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Poppy Seed Muffins: Their slightly nutty flavor and moist texture blend seamlessly with the donuts, creating an inviting array of baked treats perfect for sharing with friends.
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Honey-Infused Greek Yogurt: This creamy and subtly sweet yogurt provides a protein-rich addition, making for a satisfying side that pairs wonderfully with the donuts.
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Mint Tea: Offering a refreshing contrast, mint tea cleanses the palate, allowing you to savor each unique floral bite without overwhelming your taste buds.
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Lemonade: An ice-cold glass of homemade lemonade amplifies the bright flavors of the donuts, making it a refreshing beverage perfect for warm days.
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Shortbread Cookies: These buttery cookies complement the lightness of the donuts, creating a charming dessert platter that delights both the eyes and the taste buds.
Make Ahead Options
These Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy mornings or brunch gatherings! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix the wet and dry ingredients, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow the batter to come to room temperature before filling the molds and baking as instructed. Additionally, the glazed donuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. To maintain their delightful quality, avoid stacking them to prevent the glaze from sticking. Enjoy the simplicity of having these charming treats ready to delight your family with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts
Room Temperature: Store donuts in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh. Enjoy them at their softest shortly after baking.
Fridge: If you’re keeping them longer, these delightful donuts can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to maintain moisture.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw and glaze before serving.
Reheating: Warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to revive their fluffy texture. Enjoy the sweet floral flavors of Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts!
Expert Tips for Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts
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Fresh Violas: Use pesticide-free, fresh Violas for the best floral flavor. Dried flowers may lack the vibrant taste and aroma needed for these donuts.
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Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your baking time; gluten-free donuts can easily dry out. Check them after 12 minutes for best results!
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Light Mixing: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to denser donuts, ruining their light, fluffy texture.
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Glaze Consistency: Adjust the glaze thickness by altering the amount of Viola tea used. A thinner glaze makes a beautiful finish, while thicker can be more decadent!
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Donut Storage: These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can last up to three days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze them, and glaze just before serving.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different edible flowers or flavored glazes, like lemon or almond, to create your unique version of Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts.
Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful donuts with different twists and flavors!
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Lavender Delight: Substituting Violas with culinary lavender infuses a fragrant twist that pairs beautifully with honey.
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Hibiscus Bloom: Instead of Violas, replace with dried hibiscus flowers for a tangy, fruity flavor and a vibrant color.
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Nutty Bliss: Mix in 1/4 cup of ground almonds or almond extract for a warm, nutty flavor that adds depth to each bite.
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Citrus Zing: Incorporate zest from half an orange or lemon into the batter for a refreshing citrus lift that brightens the overall taste.
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Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to the batter for a cozy, aromatic background that complements the floral notes.
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Gluten-Free Choco-Fix: Mix in 1/2 cup of dairy-free chocolate chips to create a chocolatey version that gives a rich contrast to the floral essence.
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Sweet Spice Glaze: Try drizzling a glaze mixed with vanilla and a hint of cardamom for a fragrant and sweet finishing touch.
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Fruity Fun: Top off your donuts with fresh berries or a berry compote to add a burst of color and a refreshing twist.
With these variations, each batch of Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts can become uniquely delicious, making every baking occasion a delightful adventure!
Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for these donuts?
Absolutely! For Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts, I recommend using 3 cups of Cup 4 Cup gluten-free flour. This specific blend provides the ideal structure and body for a lovely texture. If you can’t find it, any other multi-purpose gluten-free flour blend should work just fine, but keep an eye on the consistency.
How long can I store Viola donuts, and what’s the best way?
Very! To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure to enjoy them within that time for the best texture. If you want to keep them longer, transfer them to the refrigerator, where they can last for up to a week, but be sure they’re well-sealed.
Can I freeze these donuts? If so, how?
Definitely! Freezing Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts is a fabulous option. To freeze, place the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid—about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just thaw and glaze before serving for the freshest taste!
What should I do if my donuts turn out dense?
Oh no! If your donuts are dense, there are a couple of common culprits. First, be cautious not to overmix your batter when combining wet and dry ingredients—mix only until just combined for light and fluffy donuts. Second, check your baking powder for freshness, as expired leavening agents can lead to poor rising. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time to avoid overcooking.
Are these donuts safe for those with allergies?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be mindful when it comes to other potential allergies. Substitute eggs with flax eggs for a vegan option. If you’re concerned about pollen allergies from the Violas, you can simply omit them or replace them with other edible flowers that you’re comfortable with. Always ensure the ingredients match your dietary needs!
What’s the best way to tell when my donuts are done baking?
Very! To check if your donuts are perfectly baked, insert a toothpick into the center of one; if it comes out clean, they’re ready to be taken out of the oven. This usually takes about 12-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Keep an eye on them as baking times can vary slightly based on your oven. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen while you wait!
Ashley Moore’s Viola Gluten-Free Donuts: Floral Bliss Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare silicone donut molds, greasing them lightly if needed.
- In a large bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat eggs, then add melted butter, honey, and chopped Violas.
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Spoon the batter into donut molds, filling them about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool in the mold for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- In a bowl, mix powdered sugar, purple sweet potato powder (if desired), and Viola tea until smooth.
- Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the glaze and let the excess drip off.