Mini Donuts

Short Description

Mini donuts are small, soft, and delicious pastries that are either baked or fried. Their petite size makes them perfect for parties, snacks, or a fun breakfast treat. They can be coated in cinnamon sugar, glazed, or topped with various flavors for extra indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These mini donuts are quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings without the need for special equipment or deep-frying (if baked). Whether served plain, sugared, or glazed, they bring the joy of classic donuts in a bite-sized form.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• All-purpose flour

• Baking powder

• Baking soda (optional, depending on method)

• Salt

• Ground cinnamon (optional, for flavor or coating)

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar (optional, for richer flavor)

• Milk

• Egg

• Unsalted butter or oil

• Vanilla extract

Optional for coating or topping:

• Powdered sugar

• Cocoa powder

• Melted chocolate

• Sprinkles

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) or heat oil if frying.

2. Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).

3. Whisk wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together sugar, egg, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract.

4. Combine the wet and dry ingredients just until mixed. Do not overmix.

5. Transfer batter to a piping bag or zip-top bag and pipe into a greased mini donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.

6. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until donuts are golden and spring back when touched. If frying, fry shaped dough in hot oil (around 350°F) until golden, about 1–2 minutes per side.

7. Cool on a wire rack.

8. Coat or glaze as desired: Toss warm donuts in cinnamon sugar, dip in glaze, or top with chocolate and sprinkles.

Servings and timing

Yields: Approximately 24 mini donuts
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 8–10 minutes (baked), or 1–2 minutes per side (fried)
Total time: Around 20–25 minutes

Variations

• Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: Toss freshly baked or fried donuts in a mix of sugar and cinnamon.

• Chocolate Glazed: Dip cooled donuts in melted chocolate and allow to set.

• Vanilla Icing: Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla to drizzle over cooled donuts.

• Stuffed Mini Donuts: Inject with jam, custard, or chocolate using a piping bag.

• Colorful Toppings: Add sprinkles or crushed candies for festive occasions.

• Vegan Option: Substitute dairy milk with plant-based milk and use oil instead of butter.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

storage/reheating

Store mini donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in a microwave for 10–15 seconds to refresh the texture. If using glaze or sugar coating, reapply after reheating for best results.

FAQs

How do I keep mini donuts from drying out?

Store them in an airtight container and avoid overbaking to retain moisture.

Can I make mini donuts without a donut pan?

Yes. You can pipe small rings onto parchment paper or use a muffin tin and create holes with a bottle cap or piping tip.

What’s the best way to fill the pan neatly?

Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the tip cut off for clean and even filling.

Can I fry the batter instead of baking it?

If the batter is thick enough, you can pipe it into hot oil. For best frying results, use a yeast-based dough.

Are mini donuts suitable for freezing?

Yes. Freeze in a single layer, then store in an airtight container or bag for up to 2 months.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but expect a denser texture. You may want to mix it with all-purpose flour for better results.

How can I make these donuts healthier?

Use less sugar, opt for whole-grain flour, and bake instead of frying.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes. Simply double each ingredient and maintain the same cooking time.

How do I make a basic glaze?

Mix powdered sugar with a small amount of milk or water and a splash of vanilla until smooth.

Do I need to chill the batter?

No, chilling is not necessary unless you’re making a yeast-raised version.

Conclusion

Mini donuts are a delightful, customizable treat that can be enjoyed any time of day. Whether you bake or fry them, coat them in sugar or glaze, they offer the perfect combination of convenience and flavor in every bite. Easy to make and hard to resist, these mini treats are a must-try for any home baker

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