Baked Carrot Cake Donuts

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If you’re looking for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, look no further than these Baked Carrot Cake Donuts! They combine the classic flavors of carrot cake with the convenience and fun of donuts. Moist, flavorful, and topped with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze, these donuts are sure to impress at brunch, gatherings, or as a sweet snack throughout the week. With just a few simple ingredients, including a box of carrot cake mix, you can whip up a batch of these heavenly goodies that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

These Baked Carrot Cake Donuts are not only easy to make, but they also provide a fantastic way to enjoy the classic carrot cake flavors in a new and exciting form. The donuts are soft, light, and perfectly spiced, with just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, baking instead of frying makes them a healthier option, so you can indulge with a little less guilt! Whether you enjoy them fresh out of the oven or packed for an on-the-go breakfast, these donuts will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

• 1 (15.25 ounce) box carrot cake mix
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup vegetable oil
• ¼ cup buttermilk
• ¾ cup water

How To Make Baked Carrot Cake Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and develop that perfect, fluffy texture.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Pan

Grease your donut pan with cooking spray or a little oil. This will help your donuts release easily when they are baked. You can also use silicone donut pans for an easier release.

Step 3: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the carrot cake mix with the egg, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and water. Stir until all ingredients are well combined and the batter is smooth. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts dense.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each donut mold about ¾ full with the batter. This allows space for the donuts to rise while baking without overflowing.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts

Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean. Keep an eye on them; baking times may vary depending on your oven.

Step 6: Cool the Donuts

Once baked, remove the donuts from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer the donuts to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Glaze (Optional)

While the donuts are cooling, you can prepare a simple cream cheese glaze. In a small bowl, combine 4 oz of cream cheese (softened), 1 cup of powdered sugar, and a splash of milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled donuts for that perfect finishing touch!

Expert Tips

• For added flavor, consider folding in nuts or raisins into the batter before baking.
• Ensure your buttermilk is at room temperature for better incorporation into the batter.
• Don’t skip greasing the donut pan; it’s essential for preventing sticking.
• Make a double batch and freeze any extra donuts for a quick treat later!

Variations and Customizations

• For a healthier option, substitute the vegetable oil with applesauce.
• Add spices like ginger or nutmeg for an extra punch of flavor.
• Top with chopped pecans or walnuts after glazing for added texture.
• Experiment with different icings or toppings, like chocolate or maple glaze, to suit your taste.

How to Store Leftovers

Storing your delicious Baked Carrot Cake Donuts is super simple. Place any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds!

FAQ

Can I use homemade carrot cake mix instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade carrot cake recipe or want to make your own mix, feel free to substitute it. Just be sure to maintain the same consistency and dryness for best results.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to ¼ cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, plain yogurt thinned with a little water also works well.

How do I know when the donuts are done baking?

The best way to check if your donuts are done is to insert a toothpick into the center of one. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they’re ready. If it comes out wet with batter, they need a few more minutes in the oven.

Can I make these donuts vegan?

Yes! To make these donuts vegan, you can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons warm water). For the buttermilk, use a plant-based milk yogurt combination as mentioned earlier.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Baked Carrot Cake Donuts are a delightful twist on a classic dessert that will have everyone raving about your baking skills. They’re easy to make, wonderfully spiced, and versatile enough to customize to your liking. With the combination of moist carrot cake flavor and a rich cream cheese glaze, these donuts are sure to be a hit wherever you serve them. So why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious recipe? Baking these donuts will fill your kitchen with warmth and joy, creating a perfect sweet moment that everyone will cherish. Happy baking!