These Butter Pecan Donuts are the ultimate morning treat! Soft, spiced donuts topped with a buttery, nutty glaze make for a delicious way to start your day or a perfect afternoon snack.
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the Butter Pecan Glaze:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1-2 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (for topping)
The combination of warm spices, crunchy pecans, and buttery glaze makes these donuts a delectable treat for any donut lover!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, melted butter, and egg until well combined.
4. Create the Donut Batter:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans, being careful not to overmix.
5. Fill the Donut Pan:
- Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
6. Bake the Donuts:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the donuts to cool slightly before glazing.
7. Prepare the Butter Pecan Glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, melted butter, and milk until smooth. Add more milk, if needed, to achieve a pourable consistency.
8. Glaze and Top the Donuts:
- Dip the tops of each cooled donut into the glaze, then sprinkle with additional chopped pecans for extra flavor and crunch.
9. Serve:
- Serve the donuts warm for the best flavor. Enjoy these sweet and nutty Butter Pecan Donuts with your favorite coffee or tea!
Helpful Tips for Perfect Butter Pecan Donuts
- Use Buttermilk for Extra Moisture: Buttermilk adds moisture and richness to the donuts, making them tender and fluffy.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stirring the batter until just combined keeps the donuts soft and prevents them from becoming tough.
- Customize Your Glaze: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the glaze for an extra hint of spice if desired.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Butter Pecan Donuts are the perfect blend of soft, spiced dough and rich, nutty glaze. They’re easy to make, bursting with flavor, and ideal for treating yourself or sharing with family and friends.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Servings: 6 donuts
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on portion sizes and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?
- Yes! Use a muffin pan as an alternative—just reduce baking time slightly.
2. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
- Use regular milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar for a quick buttermilk substitute.
3. How should I store leftover donuts?
- Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 4 days.
4. Can I freeze these donuts?
- Yes, freeze unglazed donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving.
5. Can I use whole wheat flour?
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier texture.
Conclusion
These Butter Pecan Donuts are a cozy, flavorful treat with a delightful mix of spices, crunchy pecans, and buttery glaze. Easy to whip up and packed with nutty goodness, they’re sure to be a favorite for breakfast or dessert. Enjoy each bite of these sweet treats!