These Lemon Poppyseed Bunny Donuts are the perfect light and citrusy treat for Easter! Infused with fresh lemon juice, fragrant zest, and crunchy poppy seeds, these baked donuts are soft, fluffy, and bursting with bright flavors.

What makes these extra fun? They’re shaped like adorable bunnies, making them a delightful addition to Easter brunch, kids’ parties, or springtime gatherings.

The lemon glaze adds a perfect tangy-sweet touch, while the poppy seeds give a subtle crunch for the ultimate bakery-style texture.

Unlike traditional fried donuts, these are baked, not fried, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Plus, they come together in under 30 minutes, making them great for a quick yet festive homemade treat.

Whether you’re a lemon lover, a donut enthusiast, or just looking for a cute Easter dessert, these Lemon Poppyseed Bunny Donuts will steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Baked, Not Fried – A lighter alternative to traditional donuts, yet still soft and fluffy.
Bright & Citrusy – Fresh lemon juice and zest add a vibrant, refreshing flavor.
Perfect for Easter – Bunny-shaped donuts make these extra festive and fun.
Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for a last-minute Easter treat.
Great for All Ages – Loved by both kids and adults!

Ingredients

For the Donuts

1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
1 tbsp poppy seeds
Zest of 1 lemon
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
½ cup buttermilk (or milk + ½ tbsp vinegar)
1 egg
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Lemon Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
½ tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp milk (adjust for consistency)

For Decoration

Extra poppy seeds for sprinkling
White chocolate or fondant bunny ears (optional)
Sugar pearls or mini chocolate chips for eyes (optional)

Instructions

Making the Donut Batter

Preheat Oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bunny-shaped donut pan or regular donut pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, poppy seeds, and lemon zest.
Combine Wet Ingredients – In another bowl, whisk together lemon juice, buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Mix the Batter – Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Fill the Molds – Spoon or pipe the batter into the bunny-shaped donut molds, filling them about ¾ full.

Baking the Donuts

Bake – Place in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool Completely – Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Making the Lemon Glaze

Prepare the Glaze – Whisk together powdered sugar, lemon juice, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if needed.

Decorating the Donuts

Glaze the Donuts – Dip each donut into the lemon glaze, letting the excess drip off.
Add Poppy Seeds & Decorations – Sprinkle with extra poppy seeds and add bunny ears and eyes if desired.
Let Set & Serve – Allow the glaze to harden slightly, then serve fresh!

Expert Tips for the Best Lemon Poppyseed Bunny Donuts

Use Fresh Lemon Juice & Zest – This gives the donuts a natural, bright citrus flavor.
Don’t Overmix – Overmixing can make the donuts dense instead of light and fluffy.
Grease the Molds Well – To ensure the bunny shapes come out cleanly, lightly grease the pan.
Let the Glaze Set – Allow the glaze to harden slightly before serving for a perfect finish.
Customize Your Decoration – Use white chocolate ears, sugar pearls, or edible paint to make them look like adorable Easter bunnies!