Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These donuts are irresistibly soft and naturally sweetened, making them a healthier alternative to traditional donuts. They come together with simple pantry ingredients and bake in just minutes. Plus, they’re easy to customize with add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or your favorite glaze.

Ingredients

2/3 cup mashed banana
3 tbsp pure maple syrup or honey
2 tbsp oil or water
1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)
1 cup flour (white, spelt, oat, or gluten-free all-purpose)
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, syrup or honey, oil or water, and vanilla extract.
Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
Spoon the batter into the greased donut pan, smoothing out the tops.
Bake for about 8 minutes or until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Allow the donuts to cool before removing them from the pan.
Frost, glaze, or coat in cinnamon sugar as desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 large donuts
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Add-Ins: Stir in mini chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut.
Frosting Options: Top with cream cheese frosting, cinnamon sugar, or a simple powdered sugar glaze.
Oil-Free: Replace oil with extra mashed banana or water for a lower-fat version.

Storage/Reheating

Store banana bread donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour for this recipe?

Whole wheat flour hasn’t been tested with this recipe and may make the donuts denser. It’s best to stick with the recommended flours.

Are these donuts vegan?

Yes, if you use maple syrup instead of honey and water or oil, they are naturally vegan.

Can I make these without a donut pan?

Yes, use a mini muffin pan to make donut holes. The bake time should remain about the same.

What can I use instead of banana?

Applesauce might work in a pinch, but the flavor and texture will be different.

How sweet are these donuts?

They are mildly sweet. For a sweeter treat, you can increase the syrup or add a glaze.

Can I make these donuts oil-free?

Yes, substitute the oil with extra mashed banana or water.

Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

Yes, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly if adding a dry ingredient like protein powder.

Can I freeze banana bread donuts?

Absolutely! Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

How do I know when the donuts are done?

They should be golden on top and a toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean.

What frosting works best with these donuts?

Cream cheese frosting, cinnamon sugar, or a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk are all delicious choices.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Donuts are the perfect blend of cozy flavor and soft, fluffy texture. They’re quick to make, easy to customize, and a healthier treat the whole family will love. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with frosting, these donuts are sure to become a new favorite!

Banana Bread Donuts

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Author: Chef Sara
Total Time: 18 minutes
Yield: 6 large donuts
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These soft and fluffy banana bread donuts are the perfect fusion of two beloved baked goods. Baked instead of fried, they’re naturally sweetened, full of comforting banana flavor, and ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Quick to make and easy to customize, these donuts are a healthier alternative that everyone will love.

Ingredients

2/3 cup mashed banana

3 tbsp pure maple syrup or honey

2 tbsp oil or water

1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)

1 cup flour (white, spelt, oat, or gluten-free all-purpose)

1 tsp baking powder

1/4 tsp salt

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mashed banana, maple syrup or honey, oil or water, and vanilla extract (if using).
Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined—do not overmix.
Spoon batter into the donut pan, smoothing the tops.
Bake for 8 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool before removing from pan.
Optional: Frost, glaze, or coat with cinnamon sugar as desired.