The first time I took a bite of a crumb-baked donut, it felt like culinary fate. These delightful treats cleverly combine the best of a cake and a donut, each one boasting a moist, vanilla-infused texture that simply melts in your mouth. Topped with a buttery cinnamon crumb and finished with a silky vanilla glaze, my Crumb Baked Donuts are a breeze to whip up, making them perfect for both leisurely brunches and surprise sweet cravings. Plus, unlike their fried counterparts, these baked beauties bring all the joy without the mess! Are you ready to elevate your dessert game? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Why Are These Donuts So Special?
Uniquely Delightful: These Crumb Baked Donuts are a harmonious fusion of cake and donut, offering a soft, moist interior that will leave you wanting more.
Effortless Preparation: The easy steps mean you can whip up a batch in no time, perfect for surprising guests or indulging yourself.
Decadent Toppings: With a buttery cinnamon crumb topping and luscious vanilla glaze, these donuts deliver irresistible flavor in every bite.
Versatile Option: Customize with your favorite toppings or fillings, like chocolate chips or seasonal spices, to create the perfect treat for any occasion. For similar delightful desserts, check out Cheesecake Stuffed Baked or Baked Feta Pasta.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether entertaining friends or simply enjoying a sweet snack at home, these donuts will impress everyone!
Crumb Baked Donuts Ingredients
• Here’s what you need to make these delicious treats!
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For the Crumb Topping:
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Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and depth of flavor; Use light brown sugar for a similar effect.
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Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; Can be substituted with coconut sugar for a less refined option.
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Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; Pumpkin pie spice can be used for a seasonal twist.
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All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; Gluten-free flour blend can be used for a gluten-free option.
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Finely Chopped Almonds (optional) – Adds crunch and flavor; Can be substituted with walnuts or omitted for nut-free.
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Butter (melted) – Adds richness and moisture; Shortening or coconut oil can be used for dairy-free.
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For the Donuts:
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All-Purpose Flour – Base for the donut; Can be replaced with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
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Light Brown Sugar – Sweetens the donut; Granulated sugar can be used if desired.
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Salt – Enhances flavor; Essential for balancing sweetness.
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Baking Powder – Leavening agent; Ensure it’s fresh for the best rise; can substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar if needed.
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Sour Cream – Adds moisture and tang; Greek yogurt can be substituted for a lighter option.
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Buttermilk – Adds tenderness; Regular milk with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can be used as a substitute.
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Butter (melted) – Provides flavor and moisture; Coconut oil or margarine for dairy-free.
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Large Egg – Binds the ingredients; Flax egg can be used for a vegan option.
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For the Vanilla Glaze:
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Confectioners Sugar – Creates the glaze; Can replace with powdered coconut sugar for a less refined option.
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Milk (2% or whole) – Thin the glaze; Non-dairy milk works for vegan diets.
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Vanilla Extract – Adds flavor; Almond extract can be substituted for a different profile.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crumb Baked Donuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare a donut pan by lightly spraying it with non-stick cooking spray to ensure your Crumb Baked Donuts release easily after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and ⅓ cup of finely chopped almonds if desired. Pour in ½ cup of melted butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, then set it aside for later use.
Step 3: Make the Donut Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder until evenly mixed. Next, gently fold in ½ cup of sour cream, ½ cup of buttermilk, ⅓ cup of melted butter, and 1 large egg. Mix until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine—avoid overmixing for tender donuts!
Step 4: Pipe the Batter into the Pan
Transfer the donut batter into a disposable piping bag or a zip-lock bag with a corner snipped off. Carefully pipe the batter into each cavity of the prepared donut pan, filling them about halfway full to allow room for rising. Then, generously sprinkle about 1½ tablespoons of crumb topping onto each donut.
Step 5: Bake the Donuts
Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 11-15 minutes. You’ll know they are done when the tops appear lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the donuts rise too much and cover the holes, gently push them back with a butter knife.
Step 6: Cool and Glaze
After baking, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While they are cooling, whisk together 1 ½ cups of confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled Crumb Baked Donuts, allowing it to set for a few minutes before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These Crumb Baked Donuts are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time on those hectic mornings! You can prepare the crumb topping up to 3 days in advance by mixing all the ingredients (brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, flour, and chopped almonds) and storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. Additionally, you can make the donut batter the night before and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. This not only enhances the flavors but also ensures everything is fresh and ready to bake in the morning. When you’re ready to bake, simply pipe the batter into the prepared pan, top with crumbs, and pop them in the oven for freshly baked Crumb Baked Donuts that come together with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Crumb Baked Donuts
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Piping Technique: Use a consistent piping method to fill the donut pan evenly. This helps achieve a uniform shape and texture in your crumb baked donuts.
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Cooling Time: Be patient and let the donuts cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes. This prevents them from breaking apart when you transfer them to a wire rack.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix your batter until just combined to keep the donuts tender and fluffy. Lumps are okay, so don’t worry about achieving a perfectly smooth batter.
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Adjusting Topping: If the crumb topping seems too dry after mixing, a little extra melted butter can moisten it without compromising the crunch.
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Glaze Consistency: If your vanilla glaze is too thick, add more milk a teaspoon at a time. You want it pourable but not runny for the best finish on your donuts.
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Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Adding a dash of flavored extracts or spices can elevate your crumb baked donuts to new heights.
Crumb Baked Donuts Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to put your own spin on these delightful donuts—let your imagination guide your taste buds!
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for a deliciously safe alternative.
- Dairy-Free: Replace melted butter with coconut oil and buttermilk with your favorite non-dairy milk for a tasty, dairy-free version.
- Flavored Spice Mix: Swap out cinnamon for nutmeg, or introduce ginger for a warm, aromatic twist that tantalizes the senses.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the chopped almonds entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds to keep the crunch without the nuts.
- Chocolate Lovers: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the batter for an indulgent, chocolatey treat that pairs perfectly with the vanilla glaze.
- Jam-Filled: Before adding the crumb topping, spoon a teaspoon of your favorite fruit jam or filling into the center of each donut for a fruity surprise on the inside.
- Healthier Sweetener: Substitute brown and granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey for a less refined option.
- Zesty Lemon Glaze: Add a touch of lemon juice and zest to the vanilla glaze for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens up the donuts.
Explore these variations and make these Crumb Baked Donuts truly your own. Whether you’re preparing for brunch or a sweet surprise throughout the week, the possibilities are endless!
How to Store and Freeze Crumb Baked Donuts
Room Temperature: Keep your Crumb Baked Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.
Fridge: For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator in an airtight container; they’ll last up to a week but may lose some of their moisture.
Freezer: Freeze your cooled donuts in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in an oven at 350°F for a few minutes to enjoy them warm and delightfully soft again.
What to Serve with Crumb Baked Donuts?
Make your sweet experience even more delightful by pairing these scrumptious baked treats with complementary flavors and textures.
- Rich Brewed Coffee: This classic pairing enhances the vanilla notes of the donuts, providing a warm, comforting contrast to their sweetness.
- Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with fresh berries and granola, this adds a refreshing element that balances the richness of the donuts beautifully.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits brings a fruity zing, creating a vibrant, colorful counterpoint to the decadent crumb topping.
- Spicy Chai Tea: The warming spices in chai elevate the flavors of the cinnamon crumb, making each bite even more enjoyable.
For a cozy brunch vibe, consider serving alongside a classic Eggs Benedict. The richness of the eggs balances out the sweetness of the donuts, creating a well-rounded meal.
- Decadent Chocolate Milkshake: For a treat that’s just as indulgent, pair with a luscious milkshake for a sweet nostalgia that transports you to simpler times.
No matter how you choose to serve them, these pairings will elevate your Crumb Baked Donuts experience to new heights!
Crumb Baked Donuts Recipe FAQs
What type of flour is best for making Crumb Baked Donuts?
For the best texture, all-purpose flour is recommended, as it creates a well-structured donut. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, you can substitute it with whole wheat flour. For those following a gluten-free diet, a gluten-free flour blend works beautifully as well!
How should I store my Crumb Baked Donuts?
To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last longer, you can refrigerate them, where they’ll stay fresh for about a week, though they might lose a bit of moisture.
Can I freeze Crumb Baked Donuts?
Absolutely! After they’ve cooled completely, place your donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a quick reheat.
Why did my donuts not rise properly?
If your donuts didn’t rise as expected, make sure that your baking powder is fresh—old leavening agents can fail to create the necessary lift. Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to denser donuts. If this happens, next time try gently incorporating your ingredients until just combined.
Can I make these donuts vegan?
Yes, you can! Substitute the egg with a flax egg by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and allowing it to sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Use non-dairy milk in the glaze and replace the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free alternative to keep your donuts vegan-friendly.
What’s the best way to glaze the donuts?
For a smooth glaze, it’s important to let your donuts cool completely before applying the glaze. This prevents the glaze from soaking in. Use a whisk to combine confectioners’ sugar, milk, and vanilla until it’s smooth. Drizzle generously over each donut and allow it to set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Crumb Baked Donuts!
Crumb Baked Donuts: Irresistibly Moist with a Crunchy Top
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a donut pan by lightly spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of brown sugar, ½ cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and ⅓ cup of finely chopped almonds if desired. Pour in ½ cup of melted butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 2 teaspoons of baking powder until evenly mixed. Gently fold in ½ cup of sour cream, ½ cup of buttermilk, ⅓ cup of melted butter, and 1 large egg.
- Transfer the donut batter into a piping bag or zip-lock bag with a corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into each cavity of the prepared donut pan, filling them about halfway full.
- Generously sprinkle about 1½ tablespoons of crumb topping onto each donut.
- Bake for 11-15 minutes until lightly browned and a toothpick comes out clean. If donuts rise too much, push back with a butter knife.
- Cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Whisk together 1 ½ cups of confectioners’ sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle glaze over cooled donuts.
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