Donuts have been a sweet breakfast treat for centuries. What if I told you you could enjoy your favorite sugary treat but with a healthier twist? Baked donuts are a delicious alternative to the fried dough we are used to, but they offer the same amazing donut delight.
Benefits of a Baked Donut
There are a few benefits to a baked donut versus a fried one. For one, there is way less fat content. If you’re trying to reach some health goals, you can easily enjoy this baked donut treat.
Secondly, you can get as creative as you want when it comes to the ingredients. You can make gluten-free options, vegan options, and sugar-free options. Any kind of dietary needs can be met with baked donuts. You can swap almost any ingredient to ensure the donut is specially made for you to enjoy!
Last, baked donuts are less messy than the traditional ones. Baking doesn’t include heating a deep-fat fryer and splattering hard-to-clean grease all over your kitchen. So not only are you cutting out unhealthy ingredients, but you’re also making clean-up a breeze.
Simple Baked Donut Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 Cups All Purpose Flour
- ¾ Cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 ½ Tsp Baking Powder
- ½ Cup Milk—you may substitute almond milk or oat milk
- 2 Eggs
- 1 Cup Room Temperature Butter
- 1 Tbs Vanilla Extract
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Prepare the donut pan by spraying the pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- Mix the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs, vanilla, and milk and mix until combined.
- Slowly incorporate the flour and baking powder until combined.
- Pour the mixture into the donut pan and bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until a toothpick can be inserted into the donut and remains clean when removed.
*You can add your favorite fruits to this batter—chocolate chips, nuts, or anything else you like! You can even create your own glaze or frosting.
Substitute Healthier Ingredients
One great thing about baked donuts is the amount of substitutions you can make. You can opt for whole-wheat flour, almond flour, or oat flour.
This applies to sweeteners as well. If you want to use lower-glycemic-index options, you can substitute granulated sugar for maple syrup, applesauce, or even mashed bananas.
Be aware that different substitutions can affect taste and texture. Experimenting with various ingredients may take a bit of time, but you are well on your way to making a healthier breakfast donut!
You can add in all types of flavor variations and toppings. Make cinnamon swirl donuts and add fruit purees—play with different toppings, frostings, nuts, seeds, or drizzles.
Wrapping Up Baked Donuts
Baked donuts are a mouthwatering and delicious alternative to the sugary fried donuts you’re used to. Making your own baked donuts allows you to control the ingredients and come up with your very own weekly creations!
