Name: Banana Bread Donuts: Fluffy Bites of Healthy Joy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Mashed Banana (Use ripe bananas for best flavor.); 1/4 cup Pure Maple Syrup or Honey (Maple syrup for vegan option.); 1/4 cup Oil or Water (Coconut oil for richness, or water for a lighter version.); 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract (Optional, almond extract as alternative.); 2 cups Flour (White, spelt, oat, or gluten-free alternative.); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Use fresh for optimum effect.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Fine salt preferred.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

The unmistakable aroma of ripe bananas mingling with warm spices took me back to the cozy mornings of my childhood, where banana bread was a staple on our kitchen table. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful twist on that classic: Fluffy Baked Banana Bread Donuts. These luscious treats are not only easy to whip up but also cater to a variety of dietary needs, offering gluten-free, egg-free, and vegan options. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a wholesome snack, they maintain a moist texture and superb banana flavor that will impress even the pickiest eaters. With endless customization possibilities, from chocolate chips to nut toppings, you’ll never run out of ways to enjoy them. Curious about how to make your mornings that much sweeter? Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe!

Why Choose Banana Bread Donuts?

Satisfying your breakfast cravings, these fluffy baked banana bread donuts are the perfect guilt-free indulgence. Customizable to your taste, you can easily swap ingredients or add toppings like chocolate chips or nuts for a unique twist. Health-conscious eaters will appreciate the gluten-free and vegan options available, making them suitable for everyone. Quick and easy, this recipe comes together in just a few minutes, perfect for busy mornings. Looking for more delicious ideas? Don’t forget to check out my Healthy Banana Oatmeal and Lemon Blueberry Shortbread to keep your breakfast lineup fresh!

Banana Bread Donuts Ingredients

Discover the essentials for your delightful banana bread donuts!

For the Donuts

Mashed Banana – Vital for natural sweetness and moisture; use ripe bananas for best flavor.
Pure Maple Syrup or Honey – Acts as a sweetener; choose maple syrup for a vegan-friendly option.
Oil or Water – Adds moisture; opt for coconut oil for richness or water for a lighter version.
Pure Vanilla Extract (optional) – Enhances the flavor; almond extract offers a fun alternative.
Flour (white, spelt, oat, or gluten-free alternative) – Provides the donut structure; avoid almond or whole wheat flour for this recipe.
Baking Powder – Ensures a lovely rise; use fresh for optimum effect.
Salt – Balances sweetness; fine salt gives an even distribution.

Feel free to customize these banana bread donuts with your favorite toppings for a delightful twist!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Bread Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While it warms, thoroughly grease a donut pan with cooking spray or coconut oil to prevent sticking. This preparation is key for easy removal later. You’ll want to set this aside while you gather and mix your ingredients.

Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed bananas along with your choice of sweetener, either pure maple syrup or honey. Then, pour in the oil or water, and if desired, add the pure vanilla extract for an aromatic boost. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined, creating a smooth, creamy mixture that highlights the lovely banana flavor.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, measure and combine your chosen flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until evenly distributed. This step is essential to ensure that the baking powder will work effectively, contributing to the fluffy texture of your banana bread donuts.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can lead to dense donuts. You should see a slightly lumpy batter with no visible dry flour. This delicate mixing will ensure your banana bread donuts remain soft and airy.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. This allows room for the donuts to rise as they bake. For a neater finish, you might consider using a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off to fill the pan easily and cleanly.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 8 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the tops are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven’s specifics.

Step 7: Cool and Remove
Once baked, allow the banana bread donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. This resting time helps them firm up a bit, making them easier to handle. Afterward, gently remove each donut and transfer them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Frost or Glaze
Once your banana bread donuts have cooled, feel free to frost or glaze them according to your preference. You can enhance their sweetness with a light powdered sugar glaze or enjoy them plain. This final touch allows for customization, making each donut as unique as your taste buds desire!

What to Serve with Baked Banana Bread Donuts?

Warm, fluffy donuts fresh from the oven bring a delightful sweetness that pairs wonderfully with a range of side dishes and drinks.

Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds a creamy contrast, balancing the sweetness and providing a protein boost for a wholesome breakfast.
Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruits like berries or citrus provide a refreshing burst of flavor, enhancing the donut experience while adding a crunchy texture.
Nut Butter Drizzle: A drizzle of almond or peanut butter on top brings richness and healthy fats that complement the banana flavor beautifully.
Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkles: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar elevates each bite, creating an irresistible sweet and spiced synergy that pairs perfectly with the soft donuts.
A Hot Beverage: Pair these treats with a warm cup of herbal tea or coffee to create a cozy, comforting morning ritual as the flavors meld beautifully.
Honey Glaze: Drizzling a light honey glaze enhances the sweetness and adds a glossy finish, making your donuts look as good as they taste.

Imagine starting your day with a colorful plate of fruit salad alongside your banana bread donuts—each complementing the other in both flavor and texture for a truly satisfying breakfast experience!

Make Ahead Options

These Fluffy Baked Banana Bread Donuts are ideal for meal prep, making busy mornings a breeze! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet ingredients and dry ingredients separately, then keeping them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Alternatively, you can bake the donuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. To maintain their delicious softness, avoid frosting them until just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply warm the donuts slightly in the oven or microwave, and treat yourself to a delightful breakfast that’s just as fresh as when they were first made!

Variations & Substitutions for Banana Bread Donuts

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make these banana bread donuts uniquely yours with some delicious twists!

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk in place of any milk-based ingredients for a creamy, dairy-free donut.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free treat that’s just as delightful.
Nut-Free: Omit nuts entirely or swap with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunchy alternative.
Extra Flavor: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate chopped berries or dried fruits into the batter for an extra burst of flavor and texture in each bite.
Spiced Up: Feel adventurous? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick that complements the sweetness!
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips, or top with a rich chocolate glaze for a decadent finish on your donuts.

For a delightful texture, serve these donuts with a dollop of nut butter or glaze them with a simple powdered sugar mixture. And if you’re looking for more scrumptious options, try out my Fudge Brownie Bread or Herb Calabrian Bread for a savory balance to your sweet treats!

Expert Tips for Banana Bread Donuts

Choose Ripe Bananas: Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. The darker the peel, the better the flavor!
Mix Gently: Avoid over-mixing the batter. Similar to muffins, a few lumps will maintain the fluffy texture of your banana bread donuts.
Check Baking Powder Freshness: Ensure your baking powder is fresh; expired powder can result in denser donuts that don’t rise well.
Grease the Pan Well: Properly grease your donut pan to prevent the donuts from sticking. This makes removal much easier and keeps your donuts intact!
Customize Wisely: Feel free to add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, but remember to adjust baking time if using a mini muffin pan for your banana bread donuts.

How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Donuts

Room Temperature: Store unfrosted banana bread donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days for optimal freshness.

Fridge: If frosted, keep the donuts in the refrigerator to prevent the frosting from melting, and enjoy within 3–4 days.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted banana bread donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your frozen donuts, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge, then warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a delightful, soft texture.

Banana Bread Donuts Recipe FAQs

What kind of bananas should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, use overripe bananas with lots of brown spots. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread donuts will be—aim for bananas that are soft to the touch and have a strong banana aroma.

How should I store my banana bread donuts?
To keep your traditional banana bread donuts at their best, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2–3 days. If you choose to frost them, it’s best to refrigerate the donuts to keep the frosting intact, enjoying them within 3–4 days for the freshest taste.

Can I freeze banana bread donuts? If so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your banana bread donuts, first place the unfrosted donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pop them in the freezer for about 1–2 hours until they’re solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 2 months! To enjoy, just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and warm them up in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

What if my donuts are too dense?
If you end up with dense banana bread donuts, it might be due to over-mixing the batter. Always be gentle when incorporating the dry ingredients—mix just until the flour is combined, leaving some lumps in the batter. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh; expired baking powder won’t give your donuts the rise they need to be fluffy.

Are there any dietary considerations for these donuts?
Very! These banana bread donuts are quite versatile. You can easily make them gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. For vegan options, simply stick to using maple syrup instead of honey and choose plant-based oil. Additionally, check for nut allergies if you’re adding toppings like nuts—give them a delicious crunch, but always be mindful of others’ dietary needs.