Baked donuts are a delightful treat that brings the joy of donuts without the guilt of frying. They are perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a dessert. This easy-to-follow recipe will guide you through making fluffy, golden-brown baked donuts that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus, you can customize them with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients
- Donuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Donut Batter
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground nutmeg. Whisk together until well blended.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts tough.
Step 2: Bake the Donuts
- Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon the batter into a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner cut off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
- Bake: Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
- Melt Butter: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until fully liquid.
- Mix Sugar and Cinnamon: In a separate bowl, combine the sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix well to create a cinnamon-sugar topping.
Step 4: Coat the Donuts
- Dip in Butter: Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, dip each donut into the melted butter, ensuring all sides are coated.
- Coat with Cinnamon-Sugar: Immediately dip the buttered donut into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, turning to coat all sides evenly. Place the coated donuts back on the wire rack to set.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overfill the Pan: Filling the donut cavities only 2/3 full ensures the donuts rise without overflowing, giving you perfectly shaped donuts.
- Check for Doneness: Baking times can vary based on your oven. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the donut; if it comes out clean, they are ready.
- Quick Coating: For best results, coat the donuts with butter and cinnamon-sugar while they are still slightly warm. This helps the toppings adhere better.
Variations
- Chocolate Glazed Donuts: For a chocolate twist, dip the baked donuts in a chocolate glaze made with melted chocolate and a little bit of heavy cream.
- Fruit-Filled Donuts: Add a dollop of fruit preserves or fresh berries to the batter for a fruity surprise inside each donut.
- Pumpkin Spice Donuts: Replace the nutmeg with pumpkin spice for a seasonal flavor, perfect for fall.
Health Benefits
- Baked, Not Fried: Baking the donuts instead of frying them significantly reduces the amount of fat and calories, making them a healthier choice.
- Customization: By making donuts at home, you can control the ingredients, reducing sugar and using whole grain flours or adding extra nutrients like chia seeds or flaxseeds.
- Portion Control: Homemade donuts allow for better portion control compared to store-bought versions, helping you enjoy a treat without overindulging.
Baked donuts are a fantastic homemade treat that brings all the deliciousness of traditional donuts with fewer calories and less fat. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a batch of these delightful treats in no time. Customize them with your favorite flavors and toppings to make them truly your own. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these baked donuts are sure to become a family favorite.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze baked donuts? Yes, baked donuts freeze well. Once completely cooled, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature and refresh in a warm oven before serving.
2. Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can substitute half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Note that this may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
3. How long do baked donuts stay fresh? Baked donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator.
4. Can I make the batter ahead of time? It’s best to bake the donuts immediately after preparing the batter. If you need to prep ahead, mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately and combine them just before baking.
Enjoy making and eating these delightful baked donuts. They are a versatile and healthier alternative to traditional fried donuts, perfect for any occasion.
