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    Home » Dessert

    Healthy Lemon Poppy Seed Donuts

    Published: Mar 11, 2020 · Modified: May 9, 2025

    Healthy Lemon poppy seed doughnuts recipe
    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

    Healthy Lemon Poppy Seed Donuts! My baked healthy lemon poppy seed donut recipe is super easy to make and there is no frying required!

    My Healthy Lemon Poppy Seed Donut Recipe is:

    • Sweet & Tangy
    • Easy to make
    • Baked not fried
    • Gut healthy
    • Gluten free option (read below)
    • Can be made in under 1 hour!

    It is finally warming up in New York, and the warmth is sticking! This week was mostly in the 50's. If you're from down south you might be wondering why this is considered warm... Well think of coming from the negative, yes negative degrees! Anyway, in honor of this gorgeous sunny weather, I made some spring time healthy lemon poppy seed donuts. And just as I am writing this, some birds started chirping right outside my window, as if on cue.

    I made them with a few healthier substitutions, like white wheat flour, plant based milk, and olive oil. The icing is totally optional, but I think it really brings the recipe together.

    Love baking and want to truly take your healthy baking up a notch? Read my full No Discard Sourdough Starter Guide for Beginners! You can use sourdough starter in everything from cookies to cakes, donuts, breads, and so much more!

    HEALTHY LEMON POPPY SEED DONUT INGREDIENTS

    • ⅓ cup Coconut or date sugar
    • 2 Lemons (juice & zest)
    • 2 tablespoons Avocado or olive oil
    • 1 Egg
    • 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
    • 1 cup White wheat flour, whole wheat flour, or 1:1 gluten free flour
    • 1 teaspoon Baking powder (aluminum free)
    • ½ teaspoon Sea salt
    • 1 teaspoon Poppy seeds
    • ⅓ cup Soy milk

    GUT HEALTHY BENEFITS OF THE INGREDIENTS

    Each ingredient in these healthy baked lemon poppy seed donuts is carefully chosen to support digestion and overall gut health.

    Here’s how these ingredients can benefit your gut:

    • Coconut or Date Sugar – These natural sweeteners contain trace minerals and fiber (especially in date sugar) that can support digestion and prevent high blood sugar spikes.
    • Lemons (Juice & Zest) – Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, lemons help stimulate digestive enzymes and promote healthy gut function. Their acidity can also aid in breaking down food.
    • Avocado or Olive Oil – These healthy fats contain anti-inflammatory properties and support gut lining integrity, promoting better digestion and nutrient absorption.
    • Egg – A great source of high quality protein and essential amino acids that help maintain gut health and repair tissues.
    • Vanilla Extract – Known for its antioxidant properties, vanilla can help soothe the gut and reduce inflammation.
    • White Wheat Flour, Whole Wheat Flour, or 1:1 Gluten-Free Flour – Whole wheat flour is rich in fiber, which promotes good digestion and helps feed beneficial gut bacteria. If using gluten-free flour, opt for a fiber-rich blend to support gut health.
    • Baking Powder (Aluminum-Free) – A leavening agent that helps create a light and fluffy texture without irritating the gut.
    • Sea Salt – Natural sea salt contains trace minerals that can support electrolyte balance and aid digestion.
    • Poppy Seeds – These tiny seeds are packed with fiber, which promotes regular digestion, and they contain healthy fats that support gut lining health.
    • Soy Milk – A dairy-free alternative that contains prebiotics (oligosaccharides), which help nourish good gut bacteria and support digestion.

    These gut friendly ingredients come together to create a delicious, nutrient packed treat that’s as good for your digestive system as it is for your taste buds!

    HOW TO MAKE HEALTHY LEMON POPPY SEED DONUTS WITHOUT SUGAR

    One simple substitution will make these already healthier donuts an even healthier treat if you are sensitive to sugar!

    Simply substitute coconut or date sugar for either a mashed super ripe banana, unsweetened apple sauce, date syrup (made of just dates), or honey!

    Lemons, oils, egg, vanilla extract, white wheat flour, baking powder, salt, poppy seeds, and soy milk can be left as is for your healthy lemon poppy seed donut recipe.

    HOW TO MAKE LEMON POPPY SEED DONUTS!

    First, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. You will also want to grease 6 holes of a donut pan so it is ready when you finished the batter. I also get a cooling rack out, because this allows the donuts to cool so much faster.

    greased doughnut pan

    TOOLS NEEDED TO MAKE LEMON POPPY SEED BAKED DONUTS AT HOME:

    • Mixing bowls
    • Lemon zester or cheese grater
    • Donut pan
    • Wire cooling rack
    HOW TO ZEST A LEMON WITH A CHEESE GRATER:

    If you don't have a specific lemon zester, not to worry. I just use the small side of a cheese grater like this:

    using a cheese grater to zest a lemon

    In a medium sized bowl, mix the coconut or date sugar and lemon zest until the lemon is fragrant.

    bowl of lemon zest and sugar

    Next, add the egg, oil, and vanilla extract and mix to completely combine. Then, add the flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds. You might notice that the batter looks a little dry, or the flour is not completely mixed in. This is okay.

    Finally, stir in the lemon juice and soy milk. If you don't have or don't like soy milk, you can really use any type of milk that you like.

    healthy lemon poppy seed donut batter
    baked lemon poppy seed donut batter

    Divide the batter between the 6 greased donut holes.

    Bake your healthy lemon poppy seed donuts in the oven for 12 minutes to start. If they bounce back when pressed, they are done. If they seem watery, or if a toothpick doesn't come out clean, bake another 3 minutes.

    lemon poppy seed doughnuts in a doughnut pan before baking
    lemon poppy seed doughnuts in a doughnut pan after baking

    Now you can place them on your cooling rack and prepare the healthy donut glaze.

    HOW TO MAKE LEMON GLAZE FOR HEALTHY LEMON POPPY SEED DONUTS

    For the healthy lemon poppy seed donut glaze, I used ⅓ cup raw honey and 4 tablespoons of fresh squeezed lemon juice. If you want it to be more of a frosting, I would only suggest using 1-2 tablespoons of the lemon juice.

    Whisk together ⅓ cup honey with 2-4 tablespoons lemon juice. If you like it thinner, add more lemon juice.

    I like to make mine thinner, so that I can save time frosting and quickly dip each one!

    glaze for lemon poppy seed donuts
    healthy lemon poppy seed donut recipe

    STORAGE

    Store healthy lemon poppy seed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Hope you enjoy them as much as I did!

    TIPS TO MAKE THE BEST HEALTHY LEMON POPPY SEED DONUTS!

    Want to make sure your healthy baked lemon poppy seed donuts turn out perfect every time? Follow these simple tips for the best results:

    1. Use Fresh Lemons

    Always use fresh lemon juice and zest for the best flavor. Bottled lemon juice lacks the bright, citrusy notes that make these donuts so delicious.

    2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

    Mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the donuts dense instead of light and fluffy.

    3. Measure Flour Correctly

    Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off instead of scooping directly from the bag. This prevents using too much flour, which can make the donuts dry.

    4. Let the Batter Rest

    Allowing the batter to sit for 5-10 minutes before baking helps hydrate the flour, resulting in a softer texture.

    5. Use a Piping Bag or Ziploc Bag

    For even, smooth donuts, transfer the batter into a piping bag (or a Ziploc bag with the corner cut) and pipe it into the greased donut pan.

    6. Don’t Overbake

    Bake until the donuts are just set and lightly golden. Overbaking can make them dry, so check them a minute or two before the recommended baking time.

    7. Let Them Cool Completely Before Glazing

    Warm donuts will absorb the glaze instead of letting it set beautifully on top. Allow them to cool fully for the best results.

    8. Store Properly for Freshness

    Keep donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Warm them slightly before eating for the best texture.

    Follow these simple tips, and you’ll have perfectly soft, flavorful, and gut healthy lemon poppy seed donuts every time!

    FAQ'S

    Frequently asked questions about my healthy baked lemon poppy seed donut recipe.

    HEALTHY LEMON POPPY SEED DONUT CALORIES

    1 has 179 calories

    HOW DO I MAKE VEGAN LEMON POPPY SEED DONUTS?

    To make vegan lemon donuts, all you have to do is replace 1 egg with 1 flax or chia seed egg.

    CAN I MAKE THESE HEALTHY LEMON POPPY SEED DONUTS FRIED INSTEAD OF BAKED?

    Baked lemon donuts can not be made into fried donuts because the dough is much more watery.

    HOW DO I MAKE GLUTEN FREE HEALTHY LEMON POPPY SEED DONUTS?

    Simply replace my white wheat flour with 1:1 all purpose gluten free baking flour!

    More Healthy Baked Dessert Recipes you're going to love!

    • Surprise Carrot Cake
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    • Pink Cinnamon Rolls
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    • Healthy Strawberry Pop tarts
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    • Twix Bars with Date Caramel
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    healthy lemon poppy seed donut recipe

    If you try my Healthy Lemon Poppy Seed Donut Recipe, please let me know your thoughts by leaving a rating and comment below! Ready for more? Subscribe to my newsletter or follow along on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube!

    Lemon Poppy Seed Doughnuts

    Delicious Healthy Lemon Poppy Seed Donuts!

    My healthy lemon poppy seed donuts are perfect for spring right around the corner! Made healthier with white wheat flour and olive oil. You can also substitute the coconut sugar for honey or maple syrup for an even lighter lemon poppy seed donut recipe.
    5 from 3 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 15 minutes mins
    Cook Time 15 minutes mins
    cooling time & frosting 15 minutes mins
    Total Time 45 minutes mins
    Course Dessert
    Cuisine American
    Servings 6 donuts
    Calories 179 kcal

    Equipment

    • donut pan
    • wire cooling rack

    Ingredients
      

    For the healthy lemon poppy seed donut batter:

    • ⅓ cup coconut sugar or date sugar
    • zest of 2 lemons
    • 2 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
    • 1 large egg vegan sub 1 flax egg or 1 chia seed egg
    • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    • 1 cup white wheat flour or 1:1 gluten free baking flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder (aluminum free)
    • ½ teaspoon pink sea salt
    • 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
    • 2 tablespoon lemon juice
    • ⅓ cup vanilla soy milk (unsweetened) or milk of choice

    For the healthy donut glaze:

    • ⅓ cup raw honey
    • 2-4 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

    Instructions
     

    For the healthy baked donut batter

    • Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 6 hole donut pan. Set aside.
    • In a medium sized bowl, mix the sugar with the zest of 2 lemons until fragrant.
      ⅓ cup coconut sugar or date sugar, zest of 2 lemons
    • Add the 2 tablespoon oil, egg, and vanilla. Stir to combine.
      2 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, 1 large egg
    • Next, add the white wheat flour, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds. Stir to combine. The mixture may look very dry and not totally incorporate, this is okay.
      1 cup white wheat flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder (aluminum free), ½ teaspoon pink sea salt, 1 teaspoon poppy seeds
    • Finally, stir in the lemon juice and the milk. Stir until totally smooth and incorporated. Just make sure to not over mix!
      2 tablespoon lemon juice, ⅓ cup vanilla soy milk (unsweetened)
    • Divide the batter between 6 greased donut holes.
    • Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 12-15 minutes.
    • Remove from oven and let cool in the pan on a wire rack.
    • To remove them, insert a small spatula along the outside edges to completely loosen them. Turn the pan upside down to let them fall out.

    For the lemon glaze

    • Whisk together ⅓ cup honey with 2-4 tablespoons lemon juice. If you like it thinner, add more lemon juice. I make mine thinner so I can dip the donuts to coat them.
      ⅓ cup raw honey, 2-4 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
    • Dip or frost each donut. Let dry on your wire rack.
    • Cover and store at room temperature for up to 3 days.

    Notes

    Nutrition information for any recipe on thehintofrosemary is only an estimate. Nutrition information for this lemon poppy seed donut recipe does not include the glaze.

    Nutrition

    Serving: 1lemon poppy seed doughnutCalories: 179kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 3gFat: 5.7gSaturated Fat: 0.6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.3gCholesterol: 31mgSodium: 204mgPotassium: 59mgFiber: 1gSugar: 11gVitamin C: 4.25mgCalcium: 13mgIron: 0.4mg
    Keyword healthylemonpoppyseeddonut, healthylemonpoppyseeddonutnoflour, healthylemonpoppyseeddonutnoyeast, healthylemonpoppyseeddonutrecipe, healthylemonpoppyseeddonutrecipebaked, healthylemonpoppyseeddonuts, healthylemonpoppyseeddoughnutrecipe, healthylemonpoppyseeddoughnuts, healthylemonpoppyseeddoughnutsrecipebaked
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

      5 from 3 votes (1 rating without comment)

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Christie

      March 17, 2020 at 12:10 am

      5 stars
      I need to try making my own doughnuts/donuts (hehehehe) and these lemon poppyseed sound AMAZING! Now I want a donut!

    2. [email protected]

      March 17, 2020 at 11:00 pm

      Right?! Donut or doughnut hehee but who cares as long as it tastes good! OMG do they have Asian donuts??

    3. Sue

      January 31, 2025 at 9:19 pm

      5 stars
      I can not believe how delicious these were!!! Going to make these over and over because we all love lemon poppy seed flavor! And all the healthy ingredients! Thank you!!

    4. Rosemary

      February 01, 2025 at 5:39 pm

      Awe I'm so happy you enjoyed them!

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    Rosemary Squires registered dietitian of the hint of rosemary blog

    Hi, I'm Rosemary, a registered dietitian and proud mom to a lively toddler. Back in 2015, I launched Hint of Rosemary to share my genuine passion for delicious and enjoyable healthy eating.

    In our home, I celebrate the delightful fusion of American and Jordanian cuisines, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Arabic cuisine, and striving to create a harmonious blend of cultures. My hope is that you'll find inspiration here and, above all, savor every bite.

    More about me →

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