Peanut Butter Baked Donuts

Who doesn’t love a warm, fluffy donut to brighten up their day? Today, I’m excited to share with you my favorite recipe for Peanut Butter Baked Donuts. These irresistibly sweet treats are not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to whip up in your own kitchen. Best of all, they offer the delightful flavor of peanut butter, making them a must-try for any peanut butter lover. So grab your apron and let’s get started.

What makes these Peanut Butter Donuts unique is how they blend heartiness and sweetness in every bite. Unlike traditional fried donuts, these baked delights are lighter and a bit healthier, thanks to the wonderful ingredients we’ll be using. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile. You can enjoy them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour; substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier option
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter; chunky works too if you like texture
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar; swap for coconut sugar for a natural sweetener
• 1/2 cup buttermilk, or use regular milk mixed with a spoonful of vinegar
• 1 large egg; for a vegan alternative, use a flax egg
• 1 tsp baking powder; ensure it’s fresh for best results
• 1/2 tsp baking soda; this will help make your donuts fluffy
• 1/2 tsp salt; a little salt enhances all the sweet flavors
• 1 tsp vanilla extract; never underestimate the power of vanilla

Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a donut pan with non-stick spray to ensure easy removal.

Step 2:

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This will ensure all the dry ingredients are well mixed.

Step 3:

In another bowl, combine the peanut butter, sugar, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until it’s smooth and creamy, making sure there are no lumps.

Step 4:

Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring just until everything is combined. Don’t over-mix, just enough to blend.

Step 5:

Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. This helps the donuts rise beautifully.

Step 6:

Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Nutritional Information

These Peanut Butter Baked Donuts are both satisfying and nutritious. Each donut has approximately 150 calories, providing a good balance of protein thanks to the peanut butter, while also being a treat you can feel good about indulging in.

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to make these donuts lighter, consider using whole-grain flour instead of all-purpose flour or replacing half the sugar with applesauce. You can also experiment with adding mashed bananas for a fruity twist.

Serving Suggestions

These donuts are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by drizzling with a simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk for a sweet finish. Try pairing with fresh fruit or a dollop of yogurt for a delicious breakfast treat.

Common Mistakes

One common mistake to watch for is overmixing the batter. This can lead to dense donuts instead of light and fluffy ones. Additionally, make sure your baking powder and soda are fresh; old leaveners can ruin the rise of your donuts.

Chef’s Notes

• For an extra flavor burst, consider adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter.
• If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the peanut butter for almond or sunflower seed butter for a different twist.
• Store leftover donuts in an airtight container for up to three days at room temperature, or freeze for longer storage.

FAQs

• Q1: Can I use natural peanut butter?
  A1: Absolutely; Just make sure it’s well mixed and not too oily.
• Q2: How do I make these donuts gluten-free?
  A2: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and check your baking powder for gluten content.
• Q3: What other flavors can I experiment with?
  A3: You can try adding cocoa powder for chocolate peanut butter donuts or even spices like cinnamon for a hint of warmth.

If you’re looking for more yummy baked treats, don’t forget to check out my Baked Blueberry Donuts Recipe and indulge in a fruity variation as well. Or try out a different flavor altogether with my Baked Raspberry Donuts Recipe. Happy baking, friend!

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