BAKED MAPLE PECAN DONUTS: A SWEET, INDULGENT TREAT

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with these Baked Maple Pecan Donuts. Soft, fluffy, and oven-baked, these donuts are the perfect combination of maple sweetness and nutty crunch. The maple glaze and pecan topping take this treat to the next level, making it ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Best of all, they’re baked—not fried—so you can enjoy a guilt-free indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a quick bake time mean you’ll have donuts in no time.
• Healthier Option: These baked donuts skip the oil and frying while still delivering full flavor.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert for any occasion.
• Maple Pecan Bliss: The maple glaze combined with the crunch of pecans is irresistible.
• Homemade Gourmet: These donuts look and taste bakery-fresh, but you made them at home!

Ingredients Breakdown

For the Donuts:

• All-Purpose Flour (2 cups): The base for light, fluffy donuts.
• Granulated Sugar (¼ cup): Adds just the right amount of sweetness.
• Baking Powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the donuts rise for a soft texture.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor.
• Milk (¾ cup): Provides moisture and a tender crumb.
• Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons, melted): Adds richness to the donuts.
• Egg (1 large): Helps bind the ingredients and adds structure.
• Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors with a warm, sweet aroma.

For the Maple Glaze:

• Powdered Sugar (1 cup): The base of a silky-smooth glaze.
• Maple Syrup (½ cup): Provides natural sweetness and a signature maple flavor.
• Milk (1-2 tablespoons): Adjusts the glaze consistency to your preference.

Topping:

• Pecans (½ cup, chopped): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the glazed donuts.

How to Make Baked Maple Pecan Donuts

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a donut pan with nonstick spray or melted butter to ensure easy release.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together:
   • 2 cups all-purpose flour
   • ¼ cup granulated sugar
   • 2 teaspoons baking powder
   • ½ teaspoon salt
2. Set the dry ingredients aside.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, whisk together:
   • ¾ cup milk
   • 2 tablespoons melted butter
   • 1 large egg
   • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2. Stir until well combined.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
2. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined—avoid overmixing, as it can make the donuts dense. The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.

5. Fill the Donut Pan

1. Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
2. For easier filling, transfer the batter to a large resealable bag, cut off one corner, and pipe the batter into the molds.

6. Bake the Donuts

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are lightly golden and spring back when gently touched.
2. Remove the pan from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
3. Carefully transfer the donuts to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

7. Make the Maple Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together:
   • 1 cup powdered sugar
   • ½ cup maple syrup
   • 1-2 tablespoons milk (add gradually to achieve your desired consistency).
2. The glaze should be smooth and pourable but not too runny.

8. Glaze and Garnish the Donuts

1. Once the donuts have cooled completely, dip the top of each donut into the maple glaze.
2. Place the glazed donuts back on the wire rack and immediately sprinkle with ½ cup chopped pecans.
3. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Baked Donuts

1. Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to avoid tough donuts.
2. Even Filling: Use a piping bag or resealable bag for uniform donut shapes and an easy cleanup.
3. Cool Before Glazing: Let the donuts cool completely to ensure the glaze adheres properly.
4. Customize the Glaze: Add a splash of vanilla or a pinch of cinnamon to the glaze for extra flavor.
5. Toast the Pecans: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet for 2-3 minutes before sprinkling them on the donuts.

Recipe Variations

1. Chocolate Maple Donuts: Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and substitute some of the milk with strong brewed coffee for a chocolatey twist.
2. Gluten-Free Option: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
3. Maple Bacon Donuts: Sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon on top of the glaze along with the pecans for a sweet-and-savory combo.
4. Spiced Donuts: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice to the batter for warm, cozy flavors.
5. Vegan Option: Use almond milk or another plant-based milk, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water), and substitute vegan butter.

Perfect Pairings

1. Coffee: A hot cup of black coffee or a maple-flavored latte perfectly complements these sweet donuts.
2. Tea: Serve with chai tea or a robust black tea for a soothing combination.
3. Milk: A classic pairing for all things sweet and baked!
4. Fruit: Pair with a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness of the donuts.

FAQs

1. Can I make the batter ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, bake the donuts immediately. If you must make the batter ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. Let it come to room temperature before baking.

2. How do I store leftover donuts?

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but allow them to come to room temperature before serving.

3. Can I freeze baked donuts?

Yes! Freeze unglazed donuts in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature, then glaze before serving.

4. What if I don’t have a donut pan?

Use a muffin tin and bake as mini or regular muffins. Adjust the baking time as needed (12-15 minutes for mini muffins, 15-18 minutes for regular muffins).

5. Can I make this recipe nut-free?

Absolutely! Skip the pecans or replace them with a nut-free topping like sprinkles or crushed pretzels.

6. Can I use pancake syrup instead of real maple syrup?

While pancake syrup works, real maple syrup delivers a much better flavor. If possible, opt for pure maple syrup.

Conclusion

These Baked Maple Pecan Donuts are a deliciously sweet and nutty treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting brunch, celebrating a holiday, or just treating yourself, these donuts are sure to impress. Pair them with a warm beverage, enjoy the soft, fluffy texture, and savor the rich maple flavor with every bite. Try this recipe today and elevate your homemade donut game!

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