Name: Delicious Peanut Butter Donuts for Guilt-Free Indulgence
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 17 min
Total time: 37 min
Ingredients: 1/4 cup Vegetable Oil (Can be substituted with coconut oil.); 1/4 cup Melted Butter (Replace with additional vegetable oil for dairy-free options.); 1/2 cup Milk (Almond or soy milk works for non-dairy alternatives.); 1 large Egg (Use a flaxseed egg for vegan alternative.); 3/4 cup White Sugar (Coconut sugar can be used as a healthier substitute.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.); 1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter (Choose natural varieties.); 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Swap for gluten-free flour blend if needed.); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 cup Powdered Sugar (Essential for a smooth finish.); 2-3 tablespoons Additional Milk (Adjusts glaze consistency.)

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As I stood in my kitchen, the enticing aroma of peanut butter filled the air, instantly transporting me back to my childhood. Today, I’m thrilled to share my favorite recipe for Easy Baked Peanut Butter Donuts with Vanilla Glaze. These delightful treats not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also offer a healthier alternative to those fried options. With their soft, fluffy texture and a rich, nutty flavor, these peanut butter donuts are perfect for breakfast or as a comforting dessert. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a go-to recipe for busy mornings or spontaneous cravings. Why not add a touch of nostalgia to your day and give these baked beauties a try? What delightful toppings will you choose to customize your donuts?

Why Are Peanut Butter Donuts Irresistible?

Delicious flavor: These baked peanut butter donuts are a delightful blend of rich, nutty goodness and a sweet vanilla glaze that’s simply irresistible.
Healthier option: Baked instead of fried, they offer a guilt-free indulgence that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Quick and easy: This simple recipe comes together in no time, making it a fantastic choice for busy mornings or spontaneous cravings.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, like chocolate chips or nuts, or try different glazes for a twist!
Versatile treat: Serve them warm with a cup of coffee or milk for an afternoon pick-me-up. If you’re looking for more delicious baked options, check out my Chocolate Peanut Butter dessert or Blueberry Cake Donuts for variety!
Crowd pleaser: These donuts are sure to impress friends and family alike, making them a perfect addition to brunch gatherings or special occasions.

Peanut Butter Donuts Ingredients

For the Donuts

Vegetable Oil – Adds moisture and richness to the batter; can be substituted with coconut oil for a different flavor profile.
Butter – Provides flavor and moisture; replace with additional vegetable oil for dairy-free options.
Milk – Moistens the batter for tenderness; almond or soy milk works well for non-dairy alternatives.
Egg – Acts as a binder and structure builder; use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) for a vegan alternative.
White Sugar – Sweetens the donuts; coconut sugar can be used as a healthier substitute.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best taste.
Creamy Peanut Butter – The star ingredient providing flavor and chewiness; choose natural varieties and avoid overly processed ones.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; swap for a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-intolerant friends.
Baking Powder – Helps the donuts rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze without grittiness; essential for a smooth finish.
Additional Milk – Adjusts the glaze consistency; add in small increments for desired thickness.

Enjoy crafting these delightful peanut butter donuts that will undoubtedly bring smiles to your table!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Peanut Butter Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As the oven warms up, grab your donut pan and lightly coat it with nonstick spray to ensure the donuts release easily once baked. This simple preparation sets the stage for your delicious peanut butter donuts!

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/4 cup of vegetable oil, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1/2 cup of milk, 1 egg, 3/4 cup of white sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 cup of creamy peanut butter. Whisk these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and fully blended, creating a rich batter that will bring out the delightful peanut butter flavor.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift together 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gently fold this dry mixture into your wet ingredients, stirring just until combined to keep the peanut butter donuts light and fluffy. Be careful not to overmix as this can make the donuts dense.

Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon the thick batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. Use a spatula to smooth the tops if needed, ensuring they are evenly distributed to achieve a uniform shape and texture.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 16-17 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma of baking peanut butter donuts will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

Step 6: Cool the Donuts
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting time allows them to firm up a bit, making them easier to transfer. Afterward, gently turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely while you prepare the glaze.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2-3 tablespoons of milk, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk amount to achieve your preferred glaze consistency—thicker for dipping or thinner for drizzling.

Step 8: Glaze the Donuts
Once your peanut butter donuts have cooled, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Return them to the wire rack to let the glaze set. This sweet finish enhances the deliciousness of the donuts and adds a beautiful shine!

Peanut Butter Donuts Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your peanut butter donuts and customize them to suit your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil and milk with almond or soy milk for a completely dairy-free treat.
Vegan: Replace the egg with a flaxseed egg and make sure to use plant-based ingredients throughout for a vegan-friendly version.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-intolerant friends and family.
Sweetener Swap: Use coconut sugar in place of white sugar for a flavor twist and a healthier alternative.
Add-Ins: Toss in chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter before baking for extra texture and flavor. Think of the delightful crunch!
Flavored Glazes: Experiment with different flavored glazes like chocolate or maple for a fun twist that keeps things interesting. The choices are endless!
Muffin Version: If you don’t have a donut pan, simply use a muffin tin instead; adjust the baking time to 18-20 minutes for perfect peanut butter muffins.
Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a hint of heat, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the batter to elevate the flavor profile.

Try these variations to keep the excitement alive in your peanut butter baking adventures! And if you’re looking for more delicious treats, don’t miss out on my Chocolate Peanut Butter dessert or delightful Blueberry Cake Donuts. Enjoy customizing your creations!

What to Serve with Easy Baked Peanut Butter Donuts?

Treat your taste buds to an unforgettable experience by pairing these delightful donuts with complementary flavors and textures.

Creamy Greek Yogurt: A dollop of yogurt adds a tangy contrast that balances the richness of the donuts, creating a delightful harmony. Drizzle some honey on top for an extra touch of sweetness!
Fresh Berries: The burst of juicy strawberries or blueberries brings a refreshing touch that brightens each bite of peanut butter goodness. Their tartness perfectly complements the sweetness of the glaze.
Coffee or Espresso: A warm, aromatic cup enhances the nutty flavors of the donuts, making them even more enjoyable as you savor the pairing in every sip and bite. An ideal match for morning or afternoon indulgence!
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Drizzling maple syrup over your donuts introduces a warm, sweet element that amplifies the overall flavor profile. The rich syrup can transform your peanut butter donuts into a decadent treat!
Chocolate Milk: This creamy, sweet beverage is reminiscent of childhood and pairs perfectly with the donuts. The combination is pure bliss and perfect for a delightful snack or breakfast stack.
Coconut Macaroons: The chewy texture and sweetness of macaroons beautifully contrast the soft and fluffy donuts. Enjoy them together for an indulgent dessert experience!
Almond Milkshake: A chilled milkshake adds coolness and creaminess, enhancing the overall experience. With a sprinkle of cinnamon, it becomes a perfectly comforting afternoon treat.
Peanut Butter Ice Cream: For a truly indulgent treat, serve a scoop on the side. The combination of textures and flavors creates a rich and satisfying dessert experience that you won’t forget!

Storage Tips for Peanut Butter Donuts

Room Temperature: Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, avoid stacking them, as this can create a soggy texture.

Fridge: If you want to extend their life, refrigerate the donuts in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a soft, warm treat.

Freezer: To freeze your peanut butter donuts, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, and simply thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating: For the best taste, reheat thawed donuts in the microwave for a few seconds, or warm them in a toaster oven until they’re heated through. Enjoy your delightful peanut butter donuts any time!

Expert Tips for Peanut Butter Donuts

Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use standard measuring cups and spoons to ensure your peanut butter donuts have the right texture; too much flour can lead to dense donuts.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Overmixing can result in a tough texture instead of the desired fluffy bite.
Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to test; it should come out clean. If the donuts are underbaked, they may collapse after cooling, so be cautious.
Let Cool Completely: Allow the donuts to cool properly before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting away. Warm donuts will lead to a drippy mess!
Customize Your Glaze: Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts or add cocoa powder to the glaze for a chocolate version! This can elevate your peanut butter donuts into a new treat.

Make Ahead Options

These Peanut Butter Donuts are a dream for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by combining the wet and dry ingredients and storing them in the refrigerator. Just remember to give the mixture a gentle stir before filling the donut pan—this keeps them fluffy and delicious. Alternatively, you can bake the donuts and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. To maintain their freshness, reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. When you’re ready to indulge, simply whip up the glaze and dip each donut—it’s as easy as that for a delightful treat anytime!

Peanut Butter Donuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best peanut butter for donuts?
Absolutely! When selecting peanut butter for your donuts, look for natural varieties with minimal ingredients—peanuts and salt are ideal. Avoid overly processed brands that contain added sugars or hydrogenated oils, as these can alter the flavor and texture of your donuts.

How should I store leftover peanut butter donuts?
You can store cooled peanut butter donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’re looking to extend their freshness, place them in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before enjoying that soft, tender bite!

Can I freeze peanut butter donuts?
Yes, you can freeze your peanut butter donuts! Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to indulge, thaw them at room temperature or reheat them in the microwave for a quick treat!

What should I do if my donuts turn out dense?
If your donuts come out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Be sure to gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined. Additionally, accurately measuring your flour is crucial—too much flour can lead to dense donuts, so scoop and level with care!

Are these donuts suitable for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can easily adapt this recipe to make it vegan by using a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water), and substitute plant-based milk and dairy-free butter or oil for a lactose-free option. For gluten-free donuts, simply swap all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour mix!

What toppings can I add to my peanut butter donuts?
The more the merrier! You can personalize your peanut butter donuts with a variety of toppings—try sprinkling chopped nuts, mini chocolate chips, or even a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce over the glaze. This adds not only flavor but also a delightful crunch!