Baked Vanilla Donuts Recipe

These Baked Vanilla Donuts are soft, fluffy, and full of rich vanilla flavor. Unlike fried donuts, this baked version is lighter, easier to make, and requires no hot oil. Topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, these homemade donuts are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful snack!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No frying required – A healthier and mess-free alternative to traditional donuts.
• Soft and fluffy texture – Perfectly light with just the right amount of sweetness.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
• Customizable – Top with sprinkles, chocolate, or different glazes.
• Perfect for any occasion – Great for weekend treats, birthdays, or holidays.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Donuts:

• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Granulated sugar
• Unsalted butter, melted
• Egg
• Vanilla extract
• Milk

For the Vanilla Glaze:

• Powdered sugar
• Milk or heavy cream
• Vanilla extract
• Sprinkles (optional)

Directions

Make the Donuts:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and milk until well combined.
4. Combine: Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Fill the Pan: Spoon or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
6. Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly touched. Let cool for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Make the Vanilla Glaze:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if needed.
2. Glaze the Donuts: Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the glaze and return them to the wire rack. Add sprinkles if desired. Let set before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 donuts
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Bake Time: 10–12 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the glazed donuts.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Skip the glaze and coat warm donuts in cinnamon sugar.
• Lemon Glaze: Swap vanilla for lemon extract in the glaze.
• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and dairy-free butter.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.

FAQs

1. Can I make these without a donut pan?

Yes! Use a muffin tin and bake them as donut holes.

2. Why are my donuts dense?

Overmixing the batter can lead to dense donuts. Mix until just combined.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Store unglazed donuts in an airtight container and glaze them before serving for freshness.

4. How do I make a thicker glaze?

Add more powdered sugar to thicken or more milk to thin it.

5. Can I bake these as mini donuts?

Yes! Reduce the baking time to about 8 minutes.

6. What’s the best way to fill the donut pan?

Use a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the tip cut off for even filling.

7. Can I use buttermilk instead of milk?

Yes! Buttermilk adds extra moisture and a slight tang.

8. How do I make these donuts more flavorful?

Increase the vanilla extract or add a teaspoon of almond extract.

9. Can I coat these in chocolate instead of glaze?

Yes! Dip in melted chocolate for a richer treat.

10. How do I keep my donuts soft?

Store in an airtight container and avoid refrigerating for long periods.

Conclusion

These Baked Vanilla Donuts are an easy, delicious way to enjoy homemade donuts without the hassle of frying. Light, fluffy, and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, they’re the perfect treat for any occasion. Try them today and customize them with your favorite toppings!

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