Name: Banana Bread Donuts Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Cuisine: American
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 flour recommended); 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt

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Introduction

These banana bread donuts offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the moist texture of banana bread with the fun shape of a donut. They are simple to make, naturally sweetened, and perfect for breakfast or a snack.

A woman's hand is holding a round donut covered with smooth, light beige icing that has tiny dark specks, creating a creamy texture on top. The donut’s base is light brown with a soft, fluffy inside. Behind the donut, there are two more donuts, one close and one a bit farther, both plain without icing. Below the held donut, a white bowl filled with the same beige icing, slightly shiny and thick, is visible. All items rest on a white marbled surface that adds a clean, bright background to the warm, soft colors of the donuts and icing. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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 flour)
1 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan or mini muffin tin to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, maple syrup (or honey), oil (or water), and vanilla extract if using, until well combined.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt.
Step 4: Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until you form a smooth donut batter.
Step 5: Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared donut pan or muffin tin, smoothing the tops gently.
Step 6: Bake for about 8 minutes, or until the donuts rise and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
Step 7: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then gently pop them out and cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use white, spelt, oat, or gluten-free all-purpose flour for best results; almond or whole wheat flour may alter the texture and baking time.
Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for extra warmth and flavor.
Top with a simple glaze, powdered sugar, or cinnamon cream cheese frosting for a special treat.
For a vegan option, substitute maple syrup for honey and use oil or water as the fat.

Storage

Store the banana bread donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a toaster oven or microwave before serving to restore softness.

How to Serve

Five light brown donuts with a shiny, smooth glaze are arranged close together on a round wooden board. The donuts have small brown specks across their surface, showing a cinnamon or spice presence. Two bright yellow bananas rest near the edge of the board in the background. The wooden board itself lies on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use almond flour or whole wheat flour in this recipe?

This recipe has been tested with white, spelt, oat, and gluten-free all-purpose flour with good results. Almond flour or whole wheat flour may change the texture and rise, so adjustments might be needed and the outcome may vary.

Do I have to use oil in the recipe?

No, you can substitute the oil with water if you prefer a lighter version, but the donuts may be slightly less moist. Using oil generally helps keep them tender and rich.