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There’s something truly comforting about the smell of freshly baked goods wafting through the house, and these Baked Brown Sugar Glazed Donuts deliver just that! Imagine starting your day with warm, soft donuts that are kissed with a rich, glossy glaze and offer the delightful sweetness of brown sugar. Unlike their fried counterparts, these baked goodies allow you to indulge without the guilt—making them a healthier alternative that’s still oh-so-satisfying.

After a long week of fast food takeout and pre-packaged snacks, I found myself yearning for something more wholesome and delightful. When I discovered this recipe, it turned my cravings into joyous moments in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, and minimal effort, you can create these delectable donuts that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a simple snack. Trust me, one bite of these fluffy rings and you’ll understand why they’ve become a staple in my baking repertoire!

Why are Baked Brown Sugar Glazed Donuts a must-try?

Irresistible flavor: These donuts offer a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth, making them the perfect morning treat.

Guilt-free indulgence: Baked instead of fried, they slim down the calories while still satisfying your cravings.

Easy to make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch quickly—ideal for busy mornings.

Versatile delight: Enjoy them plain or customize with spices like nutmeg for a seasonal twist; they adapt to your preferences seamlessly.

Crowd pleaser: These donuts are sure to impress family and friends, making them great for gatherings or brunch parties.

Feel like exploring more delicious ideas? Check out our guide on how to create the ultimate homemade doughnut decorations.

Baked Brown Sugar Glazed Donuts Ingredients

For the Donuts
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure; can substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Brown sugar (packed) – Adds sweetness and a deep flavor profile; light brown sugar works too for a milder taste.
• Milk (room temperature) – Adds moisture to the batter; almond milk is great for a dairy-free option.
• Unsalted butter (melted) – Enhances flavor and moisture; stick to unsalted to better control overall saltiness.
• Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the donuts rise light and fluffy.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness; just a pinch goes a long way in rounding out flavors.
• Large eggs – Contributes richness and moisture; for a vegan twist, try flax eggs instead.

For the Glaze
• Brown sugar (packed) – Creates a delightful caramel-like richness in the glaze; using dark brown sugar will intensify that flavor.
• Butter (unsalted) – Adds a smooth texture and shine; use unsalted to manage salt levels.
• Milk (or dairy-free alternative) – Helps achieve the desired consistency; a splash of vanilla-flavored almond milk adds extra flavor.
• Vanilla extract – Infuses a lovely aroma; pure vanilla is always the best choice for a rounded taste.

How to Make Baked Brown Sugar Glazed Donuts

Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything is nice and warm, helping your donuts bake evenly!
Prepare the pan: Grease your donut pan with a bit of oil or non-stick spray. This step is crucial to prevent your delicious donuts from sticking.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This combination provides the perfect structure for your donuts.
Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, blend the melted butter, packed brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and room temperature milk until smooth and well combined. This creates a lovely, silky mixture!
Combine mixtures: Gently add your dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just incorporated. Be careful not to over-mix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Fill the pan: Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each mold about 2/3 full. This allows enough space for the donuts to rise beautifully during baking.
Bake to perfection: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The donuts should look golden and lovely!
Cool and glaze: Once baked, allow the donuts to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack. Wait until they’re completely cool to apply the glaze.

For the Glaze:

Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, combine packed brown sugar, unsalted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and reach your desired consistency for glazing.
Glaze the donuts: Dip the cooled donuts into the brown sugar glaze, letting any excess drip off. Place them back on the wire rack to allow the glaze to set.

Optional: Sprinkle with chopped nuts for added crunch and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Storage Tips for Baked Brown Sugar Glazed Donuts

Room Temperature: Store the donuts at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their softness and flavor.

Freezer: If you want to keep them longer, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a resealable plastic bag for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, simply microwave for about 10-15 seconds after thawing. This is perfect for rejuvenating those delicious baked brown sugar glazed donuts!

Glaze Care: If the glaze hardens, gently reheat your donuts in the microwave for a few seconds to restore its smooth, shiny texture.

Expert Tips for Baked Brown Sugar Glazed Donuts

Mix Carefully: Avoid over-mixing the batter, which can lead to dense donuts. A few lumps are perfectly fine for that fluffy texture.
Cool Before Glazing: Ensure donuts are completely cool before applying the glaze. This prevents it from hardening too quickly and ensures a smooth finish.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the donuts as they bake; every oven is different. The perfect donut should be golden brown, so check with a toothpick!
Flavor Boost: Want to spice things up? Add a teaspoon of spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to the batter for an extra flavor kick in your baked brown sugar glazed donuts.
Store Properly: To maintain freshness, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or freeze them for longer storage!

Baked Brown Sugar Glazed Donuts Variations

Ready to put your own spin on these delightful donuts? Let your creativity flow and customize these treats to match your taste!

Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free option that’s just as creamy.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to create a similar texture without gluten. Perfect for those with dietary restrictions!
Nutty Delight: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch. It adds a wonderful nutty flavor that complements the sweetness.
Spiced Up: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or swap cinnamon with pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist that warms the soul. Perfect for cozy fall mornings!
Chocolate Drizzle: After glazing, drizzle melted chocolate on top for a rich chocolatey flavor that elevates your donut experience.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate ½ cup of mashed bananas or applesauce into the batter for a fruity flavor explosion along with added moisture.
Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top of the glaze for a tropical flavor and added texture that takes your donuts to the next level.
Zesty Surprise: Stir in a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the batter for a fresh citrus zing that’s both unexpected and refreshing.

Let these variations inspire you, and feel free to mix and match—every bite can be a new adventure!

What to Serve with Baked Brown Sugar Glazed Donuts?

Start your day off on a sweet note with these delightful baked treats that perfectly complement your morning ritual.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A burst of juicy berries and sliced bananas adds a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the donuts, making your breakfast feel light and vibrant.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit creates a delicious, balanced meal alongside the glazed donuts, enhancing both flavor and nutrition.
Rich Coffee: A strong cup of coffee pairs beautifully with the caramel-like glaze, allowing for a delightful balance of flavors that awakens your senses.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai complement the sweet glaze, creating a cozy and aromatic experience that’s perfect for chilly mornings.
Scrambled Eggs: Soft, fluffy eggs provide a savory counterpoint to the sweetness of the donuts, bringing together a well-rounded breakfast experience.

Sharing these donuts with family? Let each person choose their favorite pairings, ensuring everyone enjoys a breakfast tailored to their tastes!

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Brown Sugar Glazed Donuts are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry and wet ingredients separately, storing them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Additionally, glaze the donuts ahead of time, letting them sit in an airtight container to maintain their soft, chewy texture for up to 3 days. To finish, simply bake the batter fresh when needed, and apply the glaze once cooled for that just-made taste. This approach saves precious time on busy mornings, ensuring that your donuts are just as delicious when enjoyed straight from the oven!

Baked Brown Sugar Glazed Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of brown sugar should I use?
You can use either light or dark brown sugar for these donuts. Light brown sugar will give a milder flavor, while dark brown sugar will enhance the caramel notes and richness of your donuts. Both options will work beautifully in the glaze as well!

How should I store the baked donuts?
Store your baked brown sugar glazed donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This will help keep them soft and delicious. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month in a resealable plastic bag; just ensure they’re well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Can I freeze the donuts?
Absolutely! To freeze your donuts, first, allow them to cool completely. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. After that, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just thaw them at room temperature and enjoy!

What if my donuts turn out too dense?
If your donuts come out dense, it may be due to over-mixing the batter. For a fluffier texture, mix just until the ingredients are combined— it’s okay to have a few lumps! Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening can affect the rise of your donuts.

Are these donuts safe for my dog to eat?
While the ingredients in these baked donuts are tasty for us, they aren’t suitable for dogs, especially because of the sugar and butter content. It’s always best to treat your furry friends with proper dog-friendly treats instead!

Can I make these donuts dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily make these donuts dairy-free! Simply substitute the regular milk with almond milk or any other plant-based milk. Also, use dairy-free butter or coconut oil in place of the unsalted butter. Enjoy delicious, guilt-free baked brown sugar glazed donuts that everyone can enjoy!