Introduction
Peanut Butter Baked Donuts are a delicious and easy-to-make treat that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the sweetness of chocolate ganache glaze. These donuts are baked instead of fried, making them a lighter yet equally indulgent option for breakfast or dessert. If you’re a fan of peanut butter and chocolate, this recipe is for you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Baked, Not Fried – A healthier alternative with less oil.
- Peanut Butter & Chocolate – A classic flavor combination.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and steps.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- ¼ cup (67g) peanut butter
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup + 1 tablespoon milk (whole, low-fat, nonfat, or non-dairy)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon oil (or melted butter)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (124g) all-purpose flour
For the Chocolate Ganache Glaze:
- ½ cup (85g) chocolate chips (semi-sweet or milk chocolate)
- ⅓ cup (79ml) heavy whipping cream
- Chocolate sprinkles or chopped peanuts (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Donut pan (or muffin pan as an alternative)
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- Ziploc bag (for piping the batter)
- Small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl (for the glaze)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly grease a donut pan with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Make the Donut Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, sugar, milk, vanilla extract, oil, and egg. Mix until smooth.
- Add baking powder and salt, then stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined.
Step 3: Fill the Donut Pan
- Transfer the batter into a large Ziploc bag and cut off one corner to create a piping bag.
- Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about ¾ full.
Step 4: Bake the Donuts
- Bake for 8-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Make the Chocolate Ganache Glaze
- Heat the heavy whipping cream in a small saucepan over medium heat until it just starts to simmer (do not let it boil).
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips in a bowl and let sit for 1 minute.
- Whisk until smooth and glossy.
Step 6: Glaze the Donuts
- Dip each cooled donut upside down into the chocolate ganache glaze, letting excess drip off.
- Sprinkle with chocolate sprinkles or chopped peanuts if desired.
- Let the glaze set at room temperature before serving.
Variations & Customizations
1. Crunchy Peanut Butter Donuts
- Use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy for added texture.
2. Peanut Butter & Jelly Donuts
- After baking, fill each donut with your favorite jam using a piping bag.
3. Double Chocolate Peanut Butter Donuts
- Add ¼ cup cocoa powder to the batter for a chocolate-infused peanut butter donut.
4. Healthier Option
- Use whole wheat flour and replace sugar with honey or maple syrup.
Storage & Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freezing: Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.
- Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
Serving Ideas
- With Coffee: Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or a peanut butter latte.
- As a Dessert: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- For a Party: Make a donut tower and drizzle with extra ganache.
Conclusion
Peanut Butter Baked Donuts are a simple, delicious, and satisfying treat. With their soft peanut butter flavor and rich chocolate glaze, they’re sure to be a favorite in your home. Try out different variations and enjoy a homemade donut experience like never before!
