Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes in 1 Bowl – A Quick Fix for Lemon Lovers

Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes are more than just a sweet treat — they’re sunshine in a bite-sized package. From the moment the zesty lemon curd oozes into your mouth and collides with the soft, blueberry-speckled dough, you’re hooked. It’s the type of homemade treat that makes your heart sing and your kitchen feel cozy. And if you’re like me someone who believes a great recipe should tell a story then buckle up, because this one comes with a delicious backstory.

So, here’s a little “About Page” moment before we dive in. Years ago, on a lazy Sunday morning, I found myself wandering through a local farmer’s market. I wasn’t looking for anything in particular — just something sweet to pair with my coffee. That’s when I tasted my first homemade blueberry cake donut. It was rustic, slightly crisp on the edges, and bursting with blueberries. But it was missing something. A week later, while experimenting in my kitchen, I had a stroke of genius: lemon curd.

That luscious blueberry bread contrasted with the sharpness of lemon? It was a match made in pastry heaven. From that moment on, Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes became a signature in my kitchen — and a surprise favorite among friends, family, and weekend brunch guests.

But here’s the real magic: these little donut holes are easier to make than you’d think. You don’t need a donut pan or fancy ingredients. You just need a handful of everyday kitchen staples, a little bit of patience, and a whole lot of love for dessert. They fry up beautifully in avocado oil, stay tender thanks to buttermilk and Greek yogurt, and are finished with a velvety vanilla bean glaze that’s worth licking off your fingers (don’t worry, we won’t judge).

In this guide, I’ll walk you through every single step to making these Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes perfectly. From ingredients and substitutions, to frying tips, lemon curd prep, and more — nothing is left out. You’ll even find answers to common baking questions, pro tips to prevent greasy or dense donuts, and fun ways to serve them at your next gathering.

But first, let’s get to know these donut holes a little better, shall we?

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

What Are Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes?

Let’s break it down. Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes are small, fried pastries made from a rich, blueberry-infused cake batter, filled with homemade lemon curd, and coated in a sweet vanilla bean buttermilk glaze. Imagine the fluffiness of a muffin, the crisp edges of a classic donut, and the surprise tang of a citrus center — that’s what these are all about.

Unlike traditional yeast donuts, these are made using baking powder and baking soda, which means no long proofing times or waiting around. They’re more cake-like, yet still light enough to make you reach for seconds (or thirds — no judgment). And that homemade lemon curd? It’s made right in your microwave. Yes, really. It’s as easy as whisk, heat, repeat — and it comes out silky smooth every single time.

Whether you’re hosting brunch, baking for a birthday, or just need a pick-me-up treat, these Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes hit the spot. They also make amazing edible gifts (just pop them in a box with a bow), or a fun weekend baking project with the kids. Everyone loves them — especially when they’re still a little warm, and the lemon curd melts on your tongue.

Coming up next: let’s talk about why these stand out from the crowd and how they bring together nostalgic flavor with a modern twist.

Why These Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes Stand Out

Let’s be honest — the world isn’t short on donut recipes. From classic glazed rings to chocolate-filled creations, the options are endless. So what makes these Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes worth your time (and calories)? Three words: flavor, texture, and surprise.

First off, the flavor is next level. You’ve got tart lemon curd oozing from the center, cozying up with sweet, juicy blueberries baked into a soft, cake-like dough. The sharp citrus cuts through the sugar just enough to keep your palate curious. Then comes the vanilla bean buttermilk glaze, which adds a creamy, floral sweetness that ties it all together. Every bite is layered, balanced, and incredibly satisfying.

Now let’s talk about texture. These donut holes aren’t your typical doughy fried blobs. They’ve got a delicate crisp on the outside — thanks to frying in avocado oil at just the right temperature — and a tender, almost muffin-like interior. The blueberries burst as you bite in, and the lemon curd adds a creamy center that keeps things interesting.

And lastly, there’s the element of surprise. These aren’t just donut holes — they’re filled with sunshine. The lemon curd tucked inside catches people off guard in the best way. One bite and boom — that bright, citrusy center pops, making your tastebuds dance.

Honestly, once you try them, you’ll wonder why all donut holes don’t come with a lemony surprise.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes

Creating bakery-style Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes at home is surprisingly doable. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a batch that looks and tastes like it came from a high-end patisserie.

Here’s everything you’ll need, plus why each ingredient matters.

For the Blueberry Cake Donut Holes

Let’s start with the dough — the base that holds all the magic together.

• 1 3/4 cups (225g) all-purpose flour
  This gives your donut holes structure. You want something that holds shape during frying but still stays soft on the inside.
• 6 tbsp (80g) granulated sugar
  Just enough to sweeten the dough without overpowering the blueberries or lemon curd.
• 1 tsp (4g) baking powder + 1/4 tsp (2g) baking soda
  These leaveners are your secret to achieving that lovely cake-like rise.
• 1/2 tsp (3g) salt
  Never skip the salt! It enhances every other flavor in the dough — especially the vanilla and blueberry.
• 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp (150ml) buttermilk
  Buttermilk keeps the crumb tender and adds a slight tang that complements the lemon curd beautifully. If you don’t have it, any milk will work — but you might miss the depth.
• 1 egg, at room temperature
  Helps bind the dough and adds richness.
• 2 tbsp (40g) Greek yogurt or sour cream
  Adds fat and moisture for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 2 tbsp (28g) salted butter, melted
  Because butter makes everything better. It also lends a golden, slightly crisp edge to the donuts.
• 1 tsp (4g) vanilla extract
  A good quality vanilla adds warmth and pairs perfectly with both blueberry and lemon.
• 1/2 cup (65g) fresh or frozen blueberries
  Wild blueberries are ideal — they’re smaller, juicier, and distribute evenly in the dough. If using frozen, no need to thaw; just fold them in gently.
• Avocado oil, for frying
  Why avocado oil? It has a neutral flavor and high smoke point, which means your donut holes fry evenly without a greasy aftertaste.

For the Easy Lemon Curd

You’ll be shocked how easy it is to make your own lemon curd — no stovetop required.

• 1/4 cup (58g) salted butter, melted
  Adds richness and a velvety finish to the curd.
• 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice
  The star of the show. Use fresh-squeezed lemons for that vibrant zing.
• 1 cup (220g) granulated sugar
  Balances the sharp lemon flavor without making the curd too sweet.
• 3 eggs, beaten
  These thicken the curd naturally as it cooks. Just whisk well to avoid any scrambled bits.
• 1 tbsp (6g) lemon zest
  Intensifies the lemon flavor. Always zest before you juice!

For the Vanilla Bean Buttermilk Glaze

This glaze is what dreams are made of — creamy, fragrant, and just sweet enough to finish each bite.

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
  Gives the glaze its structure and sweetness.
• 2-4 tbsp (30–60ml) cultured buttermilk
  Adds tang and helps thin out the glaze to your desired consistency.
• 1/2 tsp (2g) vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
  For that beautiful speckled look and subtle vanilla finish. If using paste, your glaze will have tiny vanilla dots — bonus flavor and presentation!

Step-by-Step Recipe: Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes

If you’ve ever dreamed of making Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes at home — fresh, golden, and bursting with flavor — you’re in the right place. The process is easier than it sounds, and the reward is absolutely worth it. Whether you’re a weekend baker or a total newbie in the kitchen, you’ll love how approachable this recipe is.

Let’s get cooking!

Making the Lemon Curd

We’re starting with the lemon curd because it needs time to cool and thicken. And trust me, homemade lemon curd makes all the difference in these Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes. It’s bright, tangy, and the perfect contrast to the sweet blueberry dough.

Here’s how to make it:

1. In a large microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/4 cup salted butter. Let it cool slightly.
2. Add 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice, 1 cup granulated sugar, 3 beaten eggs, and 1 tablespoon lemon zest. Whisk everything until fully combined.
3. Microwave the mixture for 1 minute on high. Remove and whisk well.
4. Repeat microwaving in 30-second bursts, whisking after each interval. Continue until the mixture thickens and can coat the back of a spoon (this takes about 4–6 rounds).
5. Once thick, let the lemon curd cool to room temperature. Then, cover and refrigerate while you prepare the rest of your Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes.

Pro Tip: The curd will continue to thicken as it chills, so don’t worry if it seems a bit loose at first.

Preparing the Donut Dough

The base of your Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes is a soft, buttery cake dough packed with wild blueberries. It’s rich but not heavy, sweet but not cloying — and incredibly easy to mix.

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
   • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
   • 6 tbsp granulated sugar
   • 1 tsp baking powder
   • 1/4 tsp baking soda
   • 1/2 tsp salt
2. In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients:
   • 1/2 cup + 2 tbsp buttermilk
   • 1 large egg
   • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
   • 1 tsp vanilla extract
3. Slowly whisk in 2 tbsp melted salted butter to the wet ingredients.
4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until combined — don’t overmix. The batter will be thick and sticky.
5. Add 1/2 cup blueberries, folding them in very gently so they don’t break apart and turn the batter purple.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill the dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the batter firm up and makes shaping the Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes easier.

Why chill? It prevents the dough from falling apart when frying and helps lock in moisture.

Frying the Donut Holes

Now for the fun part — frying! These Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes come alive in hot oil, puffing up into golden little bites that are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside.

Here’s how to do it:

1. In a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, pour enough avocado oil to fill about 2 inches deep.
2. Heat the oil over medium-high until it reaches 350°F to 370°F. Use a kitchen thermometer to monitor — consistency is key!
3. While waiting, line a wire rack with paper towels to drain the fried donut holes.
4. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully scoop a portion of chilled dough and drop it directly into the hot oil.
5. Fry 6–8 donut holes at a time, flipping occasionally for even browning. Each batch should take 2–4 minutes to cook.
6. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to the paper towel-lined rack to drain.

Frying Tip: If your donut holes are getting too dark too fast, reduce the heat slightly. You want golden brown, not burnt.

Coating and Filling with Lemon Curd

Once your Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes have cooled slightly, it’s time to add that irresistible finishing touch — the vanilla glaze and lemon curd filling.

Vanilla Bean Buttermilk Glaze:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
   • 1 cup powdered sugar
   • 2–4 tbsp buttermilk
   • 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste or extract
2. Adjust consistency as needed:
   • Too thick? Add a touch more buttermilk.
   • Too runny? Mix in more powdered sugar.
3. Dip each donut hole into the glaze and roll to coat completely. Set on a cooling rack to let the glaze firm up.

Now fill them:

1. Transfer the chilled lemon curd to a piping bag fitted with a long nozzle (or use a plastic sandwich bag with the tip cut off).
2. Carefully insert the tip into each donut hole and squeeze until you feel resistance — that’s how you know it’s filled.
3. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with extra glaze for flair.

Pro Tips for Perfect Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes

Even the best recipes can be taken to the next level with a few insider secrets. When it comes to Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes, mastering texture, balance, and freshness will ensure every bite is as magical as the last.

Keep the Oil Temperature Steady

Frying donut holes may sound intimidating, but it’s all about controlling your oil. If the temperature drops too low, your Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes will absorb oil and become greasy. Too hot, and they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through.

Use a candy or deep-fry thermometer and aim for a consistent 350°F–370°F. Fry in small batches so the temperature doesn’t drop.

Don’t Overmix the Dough

The more you stir the batter, the more gluten develops — and that means dense, chewy donuts. Fold the ingredients just until combined, especially after adding the blueberries. Overmixing will crush the fruit and give your Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes a purple hue and rubbery bite.

Let the Dough Chill

This step isn’t optional. Chilling the dough firms it up and prevents the donut holes from falling apart in hot oil. It also allows the flour to hydrate, resulting in a smoother, softer texture once fried. Trust me — chilled dough = pillowy Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes.

Use Wild Blueberries if You Can

They’re smaller, more flavorful, and less likely to burst during folding or frying. Plus, wild blueberries offer a slightly tart edge that complements the lemon curd filling perfectly. Your Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes will have better flavor and texture throughout.

Fill After Glazing

Some bakers fill their donuts first, then glaze — but for Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes, the order matters. Fill after glazing to prevent the curd from oozing out and messing with the glaze. You’ll get a prettier finish and a neater bite.

Looking for a bright and citrusy dessert that’s both easy and impressive? These Banana Pancake Donuts with Chocolate Peanut Butter Frosting

How to Store and Freeze Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes

Chances are you won’t have leftovers. But on the off-chance that your willpower holds out, here’s how to store your Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes so they stay fresh and fabulous.

Short-Term Storage (1–2 Days)

Store fully cooled and filled Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. If your kitchen is warm or humid, place them in the fridge — just know that refrigeration may slightly firm up the glaze.

Tip: Reheat in a microwave for 8–10 seconds to refresh them before serving.

Refrigerated Storage (Up to 3 Days)

If you’ve filled them with lemon curd, they’re best kept in the fridge in a single layer to avoid glaze sticking. Place parchment between layers if stacking. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them come to room temp or microwave for a few seconds.

Freezing Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes

Yes, you can freeze them — but only before glazing and filling. Let the freshly fried donut holes cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

To serve:

• Thaw at room temperature
• Warm slightly in the oven
• Glaze and fill with lemon curd once fully thawed

This method guarantees freshly finished Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes every time you crave them.

Creative Variations on Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes

Once you’ve nailed the classic version, try switching things up! These Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes are endlessly customizable.

Raspberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes

Swap the blueberries for raspberries and enjoy a slightly tangier bite. You can even use raspberry curd instead of lemon for a totally different fruity filling.

Chocolate Dipped Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes

After glazing, dip the tops of your donut holes into melted white or dark chocolate. The combination of lemon curd, chocolate, and blueberry is surprisingly elegant — think tea party or upscale brunch.

Lemon Poppyseed Donut Holes with Blueberry Glaze

Invert the flavor focus. Add poppyseeds to the dough and make a blueberry reduction glaze. Keep the lemon curd filling — now it’s a citrus-first twist on your classic Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes.

If anyone’s searching for a dessert that’s both comforting and refreshing, I highly recommend these Blueberry Cinnamon Crunch Sourdough Cathead Biscuits with Whipped Salted Vanilla Bean Butter

Conclusion

There’s something deeply comforting about a homemade treat that balances sweet and tangy, soft and crisp, familiar and unexpected. Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes do exactly that — they surprise you with every bite and leave you reaching for just one more (then maybe another).

From the buttery blueberry-speckled dough to the silky lemon curd tucked inside, every element of these donut holes is crafted for joy. Whether you’re frying up a batch for a cozy Sunday brunch, treating your coworkers, or just baking for the sheer pleasure of it, these Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes never disappoint. They’re bite-sized reminders that the best flavors often come in small, thoughtful packages.

And the best part? You don’t need fancy equipment or a culinary degree. Just a bowl, a spoon, and the willingness to try something deliciously different.

So go ahead — grab your lemons, gather your blueberries, and let your kitchen smell like heaven. Once you’ve tasted one of these golden gems, you’ll understand why Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes have quickly become a favorite in kitchens everywhere.

FAQs About Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes

It’s no surprise that once people hear about Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes, they’re full of curiosity. From prep tips to substitutions, I’ve rounded up some of the most common questions — and answered them all below to help you bake with confidence.

Blueberry Lemon Curd Donut Holes RECIPE