Homemade Cake Donuts

Craving that comforting warmth and irresistible sweetness that only a freshly baked treat can provide? These Homemade Cake Donuts offer a delightful escape, marrying a light, tender crumb with a perfectly golden exterior. Imagine sinking your teeth into these pillowy morsels, gently spiced and utterly satisfying. Forget the deep fryer; we achieve this magic with a simple oven bake, bringing you all the joy of classic Homemade Cake Donuts without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe for Homemade Cake Donuts

• Irresistibly Delicious: Experience the perfect balance of sweetness and a tender, moist texture in every bite.
• Surprisingly Simple: Skip the deep-frying mess with our easy baked method, perfect for any home kitchen.
• Wholesome Goodness: Crafted with quality ingredients, these Homemade Cake Donuts offer a more mindful indulgence.
• Customizable Fun: Easily adapt with your favorite glazes and toppings for endless flavor combinations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Quality ingredients elevate any dish, and these Homemade Cake Donuts are no exception. Opt for fresh, organic choices where possible to truly make the flavors sing.

• For the Donuts:
  • 1 ½ cups (180g) all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend)
  • ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (120ml) unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat work beautifully)
  • ¼ cup (60g) unsalted vegan butter, melted
  • 1 large flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water, let sit for 5 minutes)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• For the Glaze (Optional, but highly recommended!):
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 2-3 tablespoons unsweetened plant-based milk
  • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Optional Toppings:
  • Sprinkles (plant-based)
  • Finely chopped nuts
  • Shredded coconut
  • Cinnamon sugar mix

Substitutions & Variations

• Flour Alternatives: For a whole-grain boost, substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour. You can also use a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free option.
• Sweetener Swaps: Reduce the granulated sugar slightly if you prefer less sweetness, or use coconut sugar for a caramel-like note and slightly lower glycemic impact.
• Flavor Fusions: Experiment with spices! A pinch of cardamom or ginger can add a unique twist. For citrus lovers, add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the batter. These Homemade Cake Donuts are wonderfully versatile.
• Healthy Glaze Options: Instead of a powdered sugar glaze, try a light dusting of cinnamon sugar (mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon) or a simple fruit puree glaze. Blend a handful of berries with a touch of maple syrup for a vibrant, naturally sweetened topping.
• Boosted Nutrition: Incorporate finely grated zucchini or carrots into the batter for added moisture and a hidden veggie boost. It won’t compromise the delightful texture of your Homemade Cake Donuts.

For those looking to add an exciting twist to their baking, consider trying out our Cream Filled Donuts. This recipe will help you explore delicious variations while keeping your homemade cake donuts fresh and fun.

Equipment You’ll Need

Gathering your tools before you begin ensures a smooth and enjoyable baking experience.

• Donut pan (standard 6-cavity or mini)
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire cooling rack
• Piping bag (or a sturdy zip-top bag with the corner snipped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating these delightful Homemade Cake Donuts is a straightforward process. Follow these steps for perfect results every time.

1. Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your donut pan cavities with a little vegan butter or non-stick spray. This prevents sticking and ensures beautiful Homemade Cake Donuts.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps and the spices are well distributed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate medium mixing bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, melted vegan butter, flax egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few small lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing leads to tough donuts.
5. Fill Donut Pan: Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a sturdy zip-top bag. Snip off a corner of the bag (about ½ inch opening). Pipe the batter evenly into each greased donut cavity, filling them about two-thirds full. This technique makes neat Homemade Cake Donuts.
6. Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts are lightly golden brown and spring back when gently touched. The baking time might vary slightly depending on your oven and donut pan size.
7. Cool: Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This ensures they firm up before glazing.
8. Prepare Glaze (Optional): While the donuts cool, whisk together the powdered sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract in a shallow bowl until smooth. Adjust milk consistency as needed – you want a thick but pourable glaze for your Homemade Cake Donuts.
9. Glaze and Serve: Once the donuts are completely cool, dip each donut into the glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Place them back on the wire rack for the glaze to set, then add any desired toppings immediately. Enjoy your freshly baked Homemade Cake Donuts!

If you’re keen on expanding your donut-making skills, why not explore the delightful process of creating Brioche Donuts? These rich, buttery treats are a delicious way to elevate your baking game.

Pro Tips for Success

Achieve bakery-worthy Homemade Cake Donuts with these expert insights.

• Do Not Overmix: This is crucial! Overmixing develops gluten, resulting in tough, dense donuts. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
• Pipe for Perfection: Using a piping bag makes filling the donut pan much easier and neater, preventing uneven donuts and messy edges.
• Grease Your Pan Well: Even with a non-stick pan, a light greasing ensures your donuts release easily without sticking or breaking apart.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Glazing warm donuts will cause the glaze to melt and slide off, leaving you with a soggy mess. Patience is key for perfectly glazed Homemade Cake Donuts.
• Check for Doneness: The donuts should be lightly golden and spring back when gently pressed. An inserted toothpick might not come out completely clean, as these are cake donuts, not fully dry cakes.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Keep your Homemade Cake Donuts fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

• Airtight Container: Store cooled, glazed, or unglazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, though they may dry out slightly.
• Freezing: Unglazed donuts can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw at room temperature before glazing and serving.
• Reheating: If desired, warm plain donuts for a few seconds in the microwave or a preheated oven (at 300°F/150°C) for a few minutes to restore their fresh-baked texture. Glazed Homemade Cake Donuts are best enjoyed at room temperature.

To ensure your homemade cake donuts stay fresh for longer, check out our guide on Glazed Yeast Donuts. This article provides tips for storage that will keep your treats tasting great for days!

What to Serve With This Recipe

These delightful Homemade Cake Donuts pair beautifully with a variety of beverages and light, fresh sides, aligning perfectly with a balanced, plant-forward lifestyle.

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant bowl of seasonal berries, melon, and citrus provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the donuts. The natural sugars and vitamins in fruit complement these Homemade Cake Donuts perfectly.
• Herbal Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of your favorite herbal tea, a chai latte, or a freshly brewed coffee (with plant-based milk, of course!) makes for a comforting pairing.
• Smoothie Bowl: For a hearty breakfast or brunch, serve these donuts alongside a colorful smoothie bowl topped with granola, seeds, and extra fruit.
• Dairy-Free Yogurt: A dollop of plain plant-based yogurt, perhaps with a drizzle of maple syrup, offers a tangy counterpoint to the rich cake donuts.
• Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a light and refreshing option, a glass of sparkling water with a slice of lemon or lime cuts through the sweetness beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these Homemade Cake Donuts gluten-free?

Yes, absolutely! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure your chosen blend contains xanthan gum or add ½ teaspoon if it doesn’t. This adjustment makes delicious gluten-free Homemade Cake Donuts accessible to everyone.

How can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

To make your glaze thicker, gradually whisk in more sifted powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. For a thinner glaze, add a tiny splash more plant-based milk (a teaspoon at a time) until it’s perfect. The ideal glaze for these Homemade Cake Donuts should be thick enough to coat but still pourable.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

While a donut pan is ideal for the classic shape, you can still enjoy these flavors! You can bake the batter in a muffin tin, filling cavities two-thirds full, for “donut holes” or mini muffins. Adjust baking time accordingly; they may take slightly less time. These won’t be traditional Homemade Cake Donuts in shape, but they’ll be just as tasty.

Homemade cake donuts are a beloved treat, known for their soft, cake-like texture and sweet flavors. These delightful pastries can be customized with various glazes and toppings, making them a versatile addition to your baking repertoire, as seen in this Doughnut article.

Final Thoughts

These Homemade Cake Donuts are more than just a recipe; they are an invitation to create joy in your kitchen. Simple, delicious, and made with love, they remind us that the best treats often come from our own hands. Share them, savor them, and let these sweet moments inspire your day.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

(Based on 1 donut, without glaze or toppings)

Homemade Cake Donuts

These Homemade Cake Donuts offer a delightful escape, marrying a light, tender crumb with a perfectly golden exterior. Using a simple oven bake, they provide all the joy of classic homemade donuts without the fuss.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 32 minutes mins

Servings: 12 donuts servings

Course: Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 185

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free blend)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamo
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk
• ¼ cup unsalted vegan butter, melted
• 1 large flax egg
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2-3 tablespoons unsweetened plant-based milk (for glaze)
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract (for glaze)

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together plant-based milk, melted butter, flax egg, and vanilla.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, gently mixing until just combined.
5. Transfer batter to a piping bag and fill donut pan cavities about two-thirds full.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and springy.
7. Cool in pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare glaze by mixing powdered sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla until smooth.
9. Dip each donut in the glaze, let excess drip off, and add toppings if desired.

Notes

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. These donuts can also be refrigerated or frozen for longer shelf life.