Baked donuts are a healthier, lighter version of the traditional fried treat, making them a perfect breakfast or snack option. This simple recipe takes just 20-25 minutes to prepare and bake, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade donuts without the mess or calories of frying. With a soft, tender crumb and a lightly sweet flavor, these baked donuts can easily be customized with various toppings, such as glaze, chocolate, or sprinkles, to suit your personal preference. Whether you’re craving a sweet breakfast or a fun dessert, these baked donuts are a versatile option that will quickly become a family favorite. Plus, they require minimal ingredients, making them an easy option for those who want to enjoy fresh-baked treats without the hassle.

In this article, we’ll show you how to make these simple baked donuts, explain why they’re a must-try, and offer tips to ensure perfect results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This baked donut recipe is incredibly simple, requiring just a few basic ingredients and about 20 minutes to prepare. There’s no need for yeast or complicated steps, so you can enjoy fresh donuts in no time.

2. Healthier than Fried Donuts

Baked donuts are a healthier alternative to the deep-fried version. They use less oil and retain a light texture, making them a perfect option for those watching their calorie intake.

3. Versatile Flavor Options

You can easily customize the flavor of these baked donuts by adding your favorite spices or toppings, such as cinnamon, chocolate, or even fruit preserves.

4. Minimal Ingredients

This recipe calls for just a few simple pantry staples, such as flour, sugar, eggs, and milk. This means you likely have everything you need already on hand, making it convenient for busy mornings or spontaneous cravings.

5. No Mess

Baking these donuts eliminates the mess and hassle of frying, which involves dealing with hot oil and splatters. You simply mix the ingredients, spoon the batter into the donut pan, and bake.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Sugar
Baking powder
Salt
Milk
Egg
Vanilla extract
Melted butter

Variations

Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: After baking, toss your donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a classic flavor combination.
Chocolate Glaze: Dip the cooled donuts into a chocolate glaze for a rich, indulgent topping.
Fruit Toppings: Add a fruit jam or glaze to the top of the donuts for a fresh, fruity twist.
Nutty Donuts: Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, to the batter for added crunch and flavor.
Pumpkin Donuts: Use pumpkin puree and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice in the batter for a seasonal variation.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a donut pan to prevent the donuts from sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Make sure the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can result in dense donuts.

Step 5: Spoon the Batter

Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full to allow room for the donuts to rise while baking.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Place the donut pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when touched.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow the donuts to cool slightly before removing them from the pan. Once cooled enough to handle, serve and enjoy your homemade baked donuts!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can make the donuts dense, so be sure to stir gently until just combined.
If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin, but the shape will be different.
If the donuts stick to the pan, allow them to cool a little longer before removing them to avoid breaking.
For a softer texture, add a little extra milk or melted butter to the batter.
Experiment with different flavors by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

How to Serve

Baked donuts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can be served with a variety of toppings and accompaniments. Try drizzling them with a glaze, dusting with powdered sugar, or adding chocolate or fruit toppings. They pair well with a hot cup of coffee, milk, or tea for a delicious snack or breakfast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If they begin to lose their freshness, you can warm them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore their softness.

Freezing

To freeze the donuts, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (180°C) oven for about 5 minutes to restore their texture. You can also microwave them for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.

FAQs

1. Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?

Yes, you can use a muffin tin to make round donut-shaped muffins. The texture will be similar, though the shape will be different.

2. Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in denser donuts.

3. Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Absolutely! You can fold in chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for extra flavor.

4. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

It’s best to bake the donuts immediately after preparing the batter for the best texture, but you can refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours before baking.

5. How do I know when the donuts are done baking?

The donuts are done when they spring back after being lightly touched, or when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Can I substitute the milk for a non-dairy option?

Yes, you can use almond milk, oat milk, or any other non-dairy milk as a substitute for regular milk.

7. How do I make a glaze for the donuts?

Mix powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla extract to create a simple glaze, then drizzle it over the cooled donuts.

8. Can I add fruit to the batter?

Yes, you can add small pieces of fruit like blueberries or raspberries to the batter for added flavor.

9. Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.

10. How many donuts does this recipe make?

This recipe makes approximately 6 donuts, depending on the size of your donut pan.

Conclusion

Baked donuts are an easy, healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts, offering a delicious treat without the extra calories. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a batch of warm, fresh donuts in no time. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, this baked donut recipe is sure to please everyone. Experiment with different toppings, flavors, and variations to make these donuts your own. Enjoy!