Introduction
If you’re looking for a deliciously indulgent treat, homemade donuts are always a crowd-pleaser. This recipe for baked donuts combines simplicity and flavor, resulting in fluffy, cinnamon-sugar-coated goodness that’s perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack. Best of all, these delightful donuts can be prepared in no time and are baked instead of fried, making them a slightly healthier option. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create these delectable treats.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Donuts:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
1 large egg, at room temperature
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Prep Time
Prep time for this delightful recipe is about 15 minutes. It’s quick and efficient, allowing you to enjoy your homemade donuts without too much fuss.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is approximately 10-12 minutes. In total, including prep and cooking, you can expect the process to take around 30 minutes. This recipe yields around 12 soft and delicious donuts, perfect for sharing or savoring on your own!
With this simple yet effective recipe, you’ll have a delightful batch of baked donuts ready to savor in no time. Enjoy the warmth and flavor of these cinnamon sugar wonders!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease two donut baking pans with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg and vegetable oil. Add the buttermilk and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Fill Donut Pans
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pans, filling each well about ¾ full. Alternatively, transfer the batter to a piping bag, cut the tip, and pipe the batter into the wells.
Step 6: Bake Donuts
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean. Note that these donuts will not turn golden brown.
Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the donuts are baking, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating by mixing the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
Step 8: Cool Donuts
Once baked, remove the donuts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool slightly.
Step 9: Coat Donuts
While the donuts are still warm, brush each one with melted butter, then dip and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat all sides.
Step 10: Serve
Serve the donuts warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Note 1: Donut Color
These donuts will not turn golden brown; they should appear pale in color when baked.
Note 2: Storage
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
Note 3: Alternative Milk
If buttermilk is not available, whole milk can be used as a substitute.
Cook techniques
Mixing Wet Ingredients
To create a smooth batter, start by whisking together the egg and vegetable oil first. This ensures the egg is well-distributed before adding other liquids like buttermilk and vanilla extract.
Combining Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt thoroughly. This helps evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices throughout the dough.
Mixing the Batter
When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, so aim for a few lumps in the batter.
Piping the Batter
For a neat and tidy method, consider using a piping bag to fill the donut wells. This allows for better control and a clean appearance in the finished product.
Baking the Donuts
Bake the donuts for 10-12 minutes until a toothpick inserted into them comes out clean. Keep an eye on them as they won’t become golden brown.
Preparing Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the donuts bake, mix sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. This will ensure an even coating when you roll the warm donuts.
Coating the Donuts
After brushing the warm donuts with melted butter, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to get an even coat on all sides.
FAQ
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use whole milk instead of buttermilk, though buttermilk adds a slight tang and keeps the donuts moist.
How can I tell when the donuts are fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a donut; if it comes out clean, they are done.
Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture or a commercial egg replacer.
How do I store leftover donuts?
Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I freeze the donuts?
Yes, you can freeze the donuts. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
These homemade donuts are a delightful treat, bursting with warming spices and sweetness. The cinnamon sugar coating adds an extra layer of flavor that perfectly complements the soft, fluffy texture of the donuts. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or at room temperature for an irresistible snack.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Glazed Donuts
Substitute a chocolate glaze for the cinnamon sugar coating to create a rich chocolate flavor by melting chocolate and combining it with a touch of cream.
Maple Pecan Donuts
Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the batter and sprinkle chopped pecans into the dough for a nutty, maple-infused donut.
Vanilla Bean Glazed Donuts
Incorporate the seeds of a vanilla bean into the batter and use a simple powdered sugar glaze instead of the cinnamon sugar for a classic vanilla experience.
Fruit-Infused Donuts
Mix in some mashed bananas or applesauce for added moisture and flavor, or fold in blueberries or raspberries into the batter for a fruit-filled donut.
Coconut Cream Donuts
Add shredded coconut to the batter and top the donuts with a coconut glaze for a tropical twist.
Spiced Pumpkin Donuts
Fold in pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice to the batter for a seasonal favorite that’s perfect for fall.
