Are you craving something sweet but don't want the guilt of deep-fried treats? Then look no further! These baked mini donuts are the perfect solution. Fluffy, delicious, and incredibly easy to make, this recipe is perfect for weekend baking, kids' parties, or simply satisfying a sudden sweet tooth. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade goodness without the fuss! This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup milk
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips, sprinkles, or other desired mix-ins
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a mini donut pan generously with cooking spray or melted butter. This is crucial for easy removal and perfectly shaped donuts.
Prepare the Batter:
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Ensure all the dry ingredients are well combined.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, vanilla extract, milk, and melted butter.
Combine and Bake:
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Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts.
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If using mix-ins, gently fold them into the batter.
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Fill each cavity of the mini donut pan about ¾ full.
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Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
Cool and Enjoy:
- Let the mini donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Perfect Mini Donuts:
- Don't overfill the pan: Overfilling will result in donuts that overflow and don't bake evenly.
- Check for doneness: Start checking for doneness around 8 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Cool completely: Allowing the donuts to cool completely prevents them from crumbling.
- Get creative with toppings: Dust them with powdered sugar, drizzle with melted chocolate, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Variations:
- Chocolate Donuts: Add ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
- Lemon Donuts: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter and a tablespoon of lemon juice to the wet ingredients.
- Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Toss the cooled donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
Nutritional Information (per donut, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients used and portion size. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator and input the specific ingredients. Generally speaking, these baked mini donuts are a relatively healthier alternative to fried donuts, offering less fat and calories.
This recipe is perfect for those looking for delicious dishes and healthy meals. It's a fantastic option for homemade cooking, easily adaptable to suit various preferences and dietary needs. It’s also a great way to involve children in the kitchen and create fun memories while enjoying these delightful treats. Enjoy!