Name: Deliciously Healthy Banana Bread Donuts for Every Craving
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed bananas (Provides natural sweetness and moisture; substitute with applesauce for different flavor.); 1/2 cup pure maple syrup or honey (For a vegan option, use pure maple syrup or agave.); 1/4 cup oil or water (Substitute with nut butter for flavor and protein or water for fat-free.); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (Optional; enhance flavor.); 1 1/2 cups flour (Can use white flour, whole grain spelt flour, oat flour, or gluten-free blends.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Raises the donuts for fluffiness.); 1 teaspoon salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 cup cinnamon sugar (Mix sugar with cinnamon for a delightful coating.); 1 cup powdered sugar glaze (Combine powdered sugar with milk for a simple, sweet glaze.); 1 cup frosting (Try brown sugar buttercream or homemade Nutella for extra indulgence.)

There’s nothing quite like the sweet, comforting aroma of baked goods wafting through the kitchen, a nostalgic reminder of time spent with loved ones. This recipe for Baked Banana Bread Donuts brings that warm, cherished feeling to your breakfast or snack table in a healthier, delightful way. These donuts are not only fluffy and delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize toppings to match your cravings or dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for an egg-free, dairy-free treat or simply a quick and guilt-free option to satisfy your sweet tooth, these Banana Bread Donuts check all the boxes. So, get ready to whip up a batch that not only pleases the palate but also makes your kitchen feel like a cozy haven. What toppings will you choose to elevate your creation?

Why are Banana Bread Donuts irresistible?

Deliciously fluffy: These Baked Banana Bread Donuts are not just sweet—they’re also light and fluffy, perfect for a guilt-free treat.
Versatile: With customizable toppings, you can switch things up to match your cravings, from a simple glaze to indulgent frostings.
Healthy twist: Made without eggs or dairy, they’re suitable for various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options.
Quick preparation: Whip them up in no time—ideal for busy mornings or last-minute snacks.
Nostalgic comfort: Enjoy the familiar taste of homemade banana bread in a fun donut format that everyone will love, making them perfect for sharing or gatherings. For more delicious ideas, check out my Eggnog Bread Pudding or Greek Yogurt Banana Muffins.

Banana Bread Donut Ingredients

Get ready to create your tasty Banana Bread Donuts!

For the Batter
Mashed Banana – Provides natural sweetness and moisture; substitute with additional applesauce for a different flavor profile.
Pure Maple Syrup or Honey – Adds sweetness; for a vegan option, use pure maple syrup or agave.
Oil or Water – Fats for texture; substitute with nut butter for added flavor and protein or water for a fat-free version.
Pure Vanilla Extract (optional) – Enhances flavor; omit if unavailable.
Flour – Acts as the structure; can use white flour, whole grain spelt flour, oat flour, or gluten-free blends. Avoid using coconut or almond flour.
Baking Powder – Raises the donuts for fluffiness.
Salt – Balances sweetness.
For Optional Toppings
Cinnamon Sugar – Mix sugar with cinnamon for a delightful coating.
Powdered Sugar Glaze – Combine powdered sugar with milk for a simple, sweet glaze.
Frosting – Try brown sugar buttercream or homemade Nutella for extra indulgence.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take your donut pan and generously grease each cavity with cooking spray or a light coat of oil to ensure your Banana Bread Donuts release easily after baking. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect donut texture!

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash 2 cups of ripe bananas until smooth, then add in ½ cup of pure maple syrup (or honey) and ¼ cup of oil (or water). If using, add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract as well. Whisk together these ingredients for about 2 minutes, until everything is well combined and you see a creamy consistency.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
Next, sift together 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a separate bowl. Make sure to mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to eliminate lumps. Once mixed, slowly incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients from Step 2. Stir gently until just combined, ensuring you don’t overmix the batter for your Banana Bread Donuts.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan
Using a spoon or a piping bag, carefully fill each cavity of the prepared donut pan about ¾ full with the batter. This will allow enough room for the donuts to rise and retain their beautiful shape. Place the filled pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 8 minutes, or until the donuts are lightly golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.

Step 5: Cool the Donuts
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. This allows the donuts to firm up and makes them easier to remove. After cooling, gently use a knife to loosen the edges and carefully turn the pan upside down to release the Banana Bread Donuts onto a cooling rack.

Step 6: Add Toppings
Once your delicious Banana Bread Donuts are completely cool, you can get creative with toppings! For a simple option, mix sugar with cinnamon for a delightful coating, or glaze with a powdered sugar icing by combining powdered sugar with a splash of milk. Drizzling your favorite frosting or Nutella not only enhances the flavor but also turns these tasty treats into a memorable indulgence!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, serve your freshly baked Banana Bread Donuts warm or at room temperature. They pair wonderfully with nut butters or fruit spreads for an extra layer of flavor. Whether for breakfast or as a snack, enjoy these delightful donuts that bring the comforting taste of banana bread to your table!

What to Serve with Baked Banana Bread Donuts

There’s something magical about turning a simple breakfast treat into a full experience; let’s explore some delightful pairings that will elevate your donuts!

Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness of the donuts. It’s a delicious way to amp up the protein!
Fresh Berries: Serve with a side of mixed berries for a fresh pop of flavor that complements the moist banana bread perfectly. The tartness adds a refreshing contrast.
Nut Butter Delight: Cashew or almond butter spread on the warm donuts creates a rich and satisfying bite, enhancing the natural sweetness of the bananas.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top provides a sweet crunch and an aromatic contrast to the fluffy donuts, turning them into a delightful indulgence.
Hemp Seed Sprinkles: Adding a sprinkle of hemp seeds not only boosts nutrition but also offers a pleasant texture, making your treat feel even more gourmet.
Chai-Inspired Tea: Pair with a warm cup of chai tea to bring cozy spices into play, enhancing the comfort food vibe of your delicious banana bread donuts.
Chocolate Chips: For a sweet twist, incorporate mini chocolate chips directly into the batter or as a topping; they melt beautifully and create an indulgent treat that kids will adore.
Fresh Orange Juice: A glass of fresh orange juice brightens breakfast, offering a zesty counterpoint to the rich banana flavors in your donuts.
Homemade Vanilla Glaze: Drizzle a simple vanilla glaze over the top for an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful finishing touch that makes them irresistibly tempting.
Coffee or Espresso: This classic pairing enhances the flavors of the donuts, making for a memorable start to your day or a charming afternoon snack.

Expert Tips for Banana Bread Donuts

Well-Greased Pan: Ensure your donut pan is generously greased to prevent sticking. Use a knife to carefully loosen edges if you encounter any resistance.

Monitor Baking Time: Overbaking can make your Banana Bread Donuts dry. Start checking for doneness at 8 minutes, ensuring they stay moist and fluffy.

Mixing Technique: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding dry ingredients; this maintains the light texture of the donuts. Gentle stirring is key to perfect results.

Customization Ideas: Don’t hesitate to incorporate extras like chocolate chips or walnuts directly into the batter for added flavor and texture.

Proper Cooling: Allow donuts to cool before adding toppings. This prevents melting and ensures the toppings adhere properly, enhancing the overall experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Banana Bread Donuts are perfect for meal prep lovers seeking to simplify their mornings! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, ensuring it stays fresh for a quick baking session. Additionally, unbaked donuts can be frozen directly in the pan; just cover tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as instructed for that freshly made taste. To maintain their fluffy texture, be sure to grease your donut pan well and remember to let them cool completely before icing or glazing them just before serving, ensuring they remain just as delicious!

Storage Tips for Banana Bread Donuts

Fridge: Store frosted Banana Bread Donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to maintain freshness, as the frosting can contain perishable ingredients.

Room Temperature: Unfrosted donuts can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, keeping them soft and delicious for snacking.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Reheat individual donuts in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through, restoring their delightful fluffy texture.

Banana Bread Donuts: Customization Options

Feel free to personalize your donuts with these fun variations that will ignite your creativity in the kitchen!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these donuts suitable for those avoiding gluten. They’ll stay light and fluffy while accommodating dietary needs.
Vegan Twist: For a fully vegan version, swap honey for agave syrup and use a nut butter instead of oil. You’ll still enjoy that delicious banana flavor without any animal products.
Flavor Boost: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates your Banana Bread Donuts. The addition of spices is a simple way to change things up!
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans directly into the batter before baking. This adds a delightful crunch and pairs beautifully with the soft texture of the donuts.
Choco-Lover’s Delight: Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise with every bite. For an extra indulgent treat, try topping the donuts with a rich chocolate glaze.
Fruity Addition: Incorporate chopped dried fruits like raisins or cranberries into the batter for a hint of sweetness, providing extra bursts of flavor throughout the donut.
Elevated Topping Ideas: Instead of just frosting, try topping your donuts with crushed graham crackers or coconut flakes for extra texture and a beautiful presentation.
Drizzle of Honey: Finish with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup over your finished donuts for a touch of natural sweetness that will make them truly irresistible.

Let your imagination run wild! These Baked Banana Bread Donuts are a perfect canvas for your flavor creations. For additional tasty delights, don’t forget to check out my Cherry Shortbread Cookies or Frozen Banana Snacks.

Baked Banana Bread Donuts Recipe FAQs

What kind of bananas should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! Use overripe bananas with dark spots for the sweetest flavor and best texture. These bananas are soft and easy to mash, providing the ideal moisture for your donuts. If you have fresh bananas, just let them sit at room temperature until they ripen to the perfect state.

How should I store my Banana Bread Donuts?
Unfrosted Banana Bread Donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep them soft and delicious. If you’ve frosted them, it’s best to refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain their freshness, as the frosting could contain perishable ingredients.

Can I freeze Banana Bread Donuts?
Yes indeed! To freeze unfrosted Banana Bread Donuts, first lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for about 1 hour until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the microwave!

What should I do if my donuts turned out dry?
If your Banana Bread Donuts end up dry, there are a couple of factors to consider. Ensure you’re using very ripe bananas, as they contribute to moisture. Additionally, avoid overbaking—start checking them around the 8-minute mark. If you find your donuts are persistently dry, try adding a bit more oil or banana to the batter next time. A gentle mixing technique also helps maintain a fluffy texture.

Are these Banana Bread Donuts suitable for people with allergies?
Yes, they are quite adaptable! This recipe is naturally egg-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for vegans and those with dairy allergies. You can further customize it to be gluten-free by using gluten-free flour blends. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they match your dietary needs, especially if you are serving guests with allergies.

Can I add mix-ins to the batter?
Absolutely! The more the merrier! You can enhance your Banana Bread Donuts by folding in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg directly into the batter before baking. Just remember not to overmix, as it can affect the donut’s fluffy texture!