The aroma of warm banana bread wafting through the kitchen always takes me back to my grandmother’s cozy home. Nowadays, I don’t wait for baking day to enjoy that beloved scent; I whip up these delightful Baked Banana Donuts with Brown Butter Icing instead. They’re the perfect remedy for those overripe bananas sitting on your counter and offer a rich, comforting treat that elevates breakfast or makes a sweet snack any time of day. The best part? They’re incredibly simple to prepare, so you can have fresh donuts ready in no time, even on busy mornings. Curious about how to nail that irresistible flavor while keeping things light and airy? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that your taste buds will thank you for!
Why Are These Banana Donuts Irresistible?
Moist, fluffy texture: These baked banana donuts are mouthwateringly soft and moist, making each bite a delightful experience.
Decadent brown butter icing: The rich, nutty flavor of the icing elevates these donuts from simple to sublime, giving your breakfast or snack a gourmet touch.
Easy to prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up these donuts quickly, making them perfect for busy mornings.
Perfect for overripe bananas: Turn those forgotten bananas into an indulgent treat, reducing waste while satisfying your sweet tooth.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these donuts are sure to impress friends and family—simply irresistible! For more delicious banana recipes, check out our Bake Banana Split or Banana Oats Pancakes.
Banana Donuts Ingredients
• The perfect blend of flavors for baking!
For the Donuts
- All-purpose flour – Gives structure to the donuts; sift it for a fluffy result.
- Brown sugar – Adds moisture and sweetness; coconut sugar can enhance the flavor profile.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness; even a pinch can make a difference.
- Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for a light texture; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- Overripe bananas – The star ingredient! Brings natural sweetness; no substitutes recommended.
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness; melted for smooth mixing, or use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Large egg – Binds everything together; vital for the proper texture of your banana donuts.
For the Brown Butter Icing
- Powdered sugar – Essential for a silky icing texture; prevent clumps by whisking well.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances the icing’s flavor; substitute with almond extract for a unique twist.
- Milk or heavy cream – Adjusts icing thickness; add gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistibly Soft Banana Donuts with Brown Butter Icing
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grab a donut mold and generously coat it with non-stick spray to ensure your banana donuts release easily after baking. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly shaped treats that won’t stick!
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder until there are no lumps remaining. This blend is the foundation of your banana donuts, ensuring a light texture that will complement the moistness of the overripe bananas.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mash your overripe bananas until smooth, and then whisk in the melted unsalted butter and large egg until the mixture is well combined. This mixture should be creamy and slightly runny, providing the moisture and flavor that will make your banana donuts irresistible.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently fold the wet banana mixture into the dry ingredients, being careful not to over-mix. Stir until just combined—this will keep your banana donuts moist and fluffy. You’ll know it’s ready when no dry flour remains visible, and the batter appears thick yet cohesive.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Molds
Using either a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cavity of the prepared donut mold about ¾ full with the thick batter. Take care to avoid overfilling, as the donuts will rise while baking. This method ensures each donut has a consistent shape and size for an appealing presentation.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the filled donut molds in the preheated oven and bake for 15-17 minutes. Keep an eye on them after 10 minutes, as they should spring back when gently pressed. The perfect banana donuts will have a light golden color; let that warm smell guide you!
Step 7: Cool the Donuts
Once baked, remove the donut molds from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This rest period allows them to firm up slightly. After that, gently transfer the donuts to a wire rack to cool completely, readying them for that rich icing.
Step 8: Prepare the Brown Butter Icing
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat, watching for a nutty aroma and golden color to develop; this is the brown butter stage. Once ready, whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth, creating a lush icing that completes your banana donuts beautifully.
Step 9: Icing the Donuts
Once the banana donuts have cooled completely, dip the tops into the brown butter icing until well-coated. The icing should flow nicely, adding a sumptuous finish to your donuts. Allow any excess icing to drip off before placing the donuts back on the wire rack to set.
How to Store and Freeze Banana Donuts
Room Temperature: Keep your banana donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This will help maintain their moist texture and flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the donuts in an airtight container for up to 5 days. However, they may lose some of their soft texture.
Freezer: Freeze banana donuts by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen donuts, simply thaw them at room temperature or heat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through. Enjoy that delicious freshly baked taste!
Expert Tips for Banana Donuts
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh baking powder and overripe bananas for the best flavor and texture; stale products can result in dense donuts.
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Avoid Over-Mixing: Gently fold the wet and dry ingredients together to keep the banana donuts light and fluffy; over-mixing creates a tough texture.
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Perfect Brown Butter: Watch the butter carefully while browning; the aroma and color will guide you to a perfectly nutty icing without burning.
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Custom Icing Thickness: Adjust the icing consistency with milk or cream; try dipping donuts for a thicker coating or drizzle for a lighter finish.
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Storage Tips: Store banana donuts in an airtight container but enjoy them the same day for optimum freshness; they’re best right out of the oven!
What to Serve with Moist Baked Banana Donuts with Decadent Brown Butter Icing
Elevate your breakfast or snack time with delightful pairings that enhance the warmth and sweetness of these banana donuts.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing balance to the rich donuts, making each bite burst with flavor.
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Hot Coffee: The nutty aroma of a steaming cup of coffee beautifully complements the sweet richness of the brown butter icing, creating a cozy vibe.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a light and nutritious option that contrasts nicely with the soft texture of the donuts.
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Chai Latte: With its fragrant spices, a warm chai latte offers a delightful pairing that harmonizes with the banana donuts’ sweetness.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of pure maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and an extra layer of flavor that resonates with the banana goodness.
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Walnut Crumble: Top your banana donuts with a crunchy walnut crumble for a delightful textural contrast and an added nutty flavor.
These pairings not only enhance the dining experience but also create a well-rounded meal that invites sharing and enjoyment.
Make Ahead Options
These Moist Baked Banana Donuts with Decadent Brown Butter Icing are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator, ensuring it stays fresh and prevents browning. Just mix all your ingredients, cover the bowl tightly, and pop it in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply fill your donut molds and bake as directed. The icing can also be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days; just give it a gentle re-whisk or microwave briefly to soften before dipping your donuts. This way, you’ll save precious minutes during busy mornings and still enjoy scrumptious homemade banana donuts!
Banana Donuts Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these delicious banana donuts—they’re the perfect canvas for your culinary imagination!
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Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. This twist brings a heartier texture that pairs nicely with the sweetness of bananas.
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Coconut Oil: Replace unsalted butter with melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option. It infuses a tropical note into your donuts, creating an enticing aroma as they bake.
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Chocolate Chips: Stir in some semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful chocolatey surprise. Each bite becomes a sweet, heavenly treasure!
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Nuts Galore: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch. The combination of soft donuts with crunchy nuts provides a pleasing contrast that will keep everyone reaching for more.
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Spiced Twist: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for an autumnal flavor profile. The warm spices add a cozy depth that makes these donuts perfect for chilly mornings.
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Flavored Icing: Experiment with flavored extracts such as almond or maple in your icing for a unique flair. A maple twist will evoke memories of cozy fall breakfasts.
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe celiac-friendly. Just make sure the blend includes xanthan gum for proper structure and chew.
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Extra Sweetness: Drizzle honey or maple syrup over the iced donuts for a beautiful presentation and a sweet finishing touch. This addition brings an extra layer of decadence to your already delightful treats!
For more banana-inspired goodness, check out our mouthwatering Ingredient Chocolate Oat cookies that are simple to make!
Baked Banana Donuts with Brown Butter Icing Recipe FAQs
What kind of bananas should I use for these donuts?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas are key to creating that natural sweetness and moisture in your banana donuts. Look for bananas with brown spots all over; these are perfect for mashing and will offer the best flavor. Fresh, green bananas won’t provide the same sweetness or texture, so make sure yours are well past their prime!
How should I store my baked banana donuts?
I recommend storing your banana donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them moist and delicious. If you want them to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but keep in mind they might lose some of their lovely softness.
Can I freeze these banana donuts?
Very! To freeze, let the donuts cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until firm—this will prevent them from sticking together. After that, transfer the donuts to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for around 10-15 seconds.
What if my donuts turn out dense or tough?
Great question! If your banana donuts are dense, it’s likely due to over-mixing the batter. Remember, when combining the wet and dry ingredients, stir gently until just combined—no dry flour visible should be your cue. Also, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can cause your donuts to rise poorly.
Are these banana donuts safe for someone with dairy allergies?
Yes, they can be! To make the recipe dairy-free, simply swap out the unsalted butter for coconut oil while ensuring that the milk used in the icing is also dairy-free, such as almond or oat milk. This way, you can still enjoy delicious banana donuts with the right adjustments!
What’s the best way to get that brown butter icing just right?
Perfect brown butter icing is all about attention! Carefully melt your butter over medium heat, stirring continually. Watch for a nutty aroma and a golden-brown color—it takes just a few minutes. Once you achieve that stage, whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. If the icing is too thick, add milk slowly until you reach your desired consistency. Enjoy the decadence!
Irresistibly Soft Banana Donuts with Brown Butter Icing
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a donut mold with non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder until no lumps remain.
- In a separate bowl, mash the overripe bananas until smooth, then whisk in the melted butter and egg until well combined.
- Gently fold the wet banana mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined, ensuring no dry flour remains.
- Fill each cavity of the prepared donut mold about ¾ full with the thick batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, or until they spring back when gently pressed.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat to a nutty aroma and golden color to create brown butter.
- Whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth to create the icing.
- Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the icing and allow excess to drip off before setting them back on the wire rack.
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