Baked Banana Donuts With Chocolate Glaze Recipe

Flour: The base of the donuts, providing structure and texture.

Baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.

Baking soda: Works with the baking powder to leaven the donuts.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the donuts.

Bananas: Provides moisture and natural sweetness; use ripe bananas for the best results.

Milk: Adds moisture and helps create a tender crumb.

Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.

Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet flavor to the donuts and glaze.

Butter: Adds richness and moisture to the donuts and glaze.

Semi-sweet chocolate chips: Used for the chocolate glaze, providing a rich and smooth coating.

When mashing the bananas, ensure they are fully ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture. Use a fork or a potato masher to achieve a smooth consistency. This will help the donuts stay moist and flavorful. Additionally, when combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can result in dense donuts. For an even coating of the chocolate glaze, dip the donuts while they are completely cool to prevent the glaze from sliding off.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds more fiber and nutrients, though it may make the donuts denser.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for a similar leavening effect.

• baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 times the amount of baking powder, though the texture might be slightly different.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same amount and provides a slightly different flavor profile.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Use ¾ cup honey for 1 cup sugar, and reduce other liquids by ¼ cup.

• bananas - Substitute with applesauce: Use 1 cup applesauce for 1 cup mashed bananas for a different flavor but similar moisture.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used in the same amount for a dairy-free option.

• egg - Substitute with flax egg: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons water for a vegan alternative.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Use half the amount of almond extract for a different but pleasant flavor.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Use the same amount of melted coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

• semi-sweet chocolate chips - Substitute with dark chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips provide a richer flavor and less sugar.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee can be used in the same amount and provides a slightly nutty flavor.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk can be used in the same amount for a different flavor and creaminess.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Use the same amount of maple syrup for a different but complementary flavor.

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Place the baked banana donuts in an airtight container. If stacking, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store the container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the donuts for up to a week.

• To freeze, individually wrap each donut in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps maintain their texture and flavor.

• Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• Freeze the donuts for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.

• If the chocolate glaze appears dull after thawing, you can refresh it by adding a new layer of melted chocolate.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the baked banana donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  3. Cover the donuts loosely with aluminum foil to prevent the chocolate glaze from melting too much.
  4. Heat in the oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until the donuts are warmed through.
  5. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before enjoying.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Place a baked banana donut on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover the donut with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out.
  3. Microwave on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Check the donut and add additional 5-second intervals if needed.
  4. Be cautious as the chocolate glaze may melt; let it cool for a moment before eating.

• Toaster Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the baked banana donuts on the toaster oven tray.
  3. Cover the donuts with aluminum foil to protect the chocolate glaze.
  4. Heat for about 5 minutes, or until the donuts are warmed through.
  5. Remove and let them cool slightly before serving.

• Air Fryer Method:

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Place the baked banana donuts in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
  3. Heat for 3-4 minutes, checking halfway to ensure the chocolate glaze isn't melting too much.
  4. Remove from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before enjoying.

• Stovetop Steaming Method:

  1. Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a simmer.
  2. Place a heatproof plate or steaming basket over the simmering water.
  3. Arrange the baked banana donuts on the plate or in the basket.
  4. Cover the pot and steam for about 2-3 minutes, or until the donuts are warmed through.
  5. Carefully remove the donuts and let them cool slightly before serving.

• Oven: Used to bake the donuts at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Donut pan: A specialized pan with cavities shaped like donuts, essential for baking the donuts.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine dry ingredients like flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

• Mixing bowl: Another bowl for mixing wet ingredients such as sugar, mashed bananas, milk, egg, and vanilla extract.

• Whisk: Used to whisk together the dry ingredients and to mix the wet ingredients.

• Spoon: Used to spoon the batter into the donut pan cavities.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the donuts are fully baked by inserting it into the donuts; it should come out clean.

• Wire rack: Used to cool the donuts completely after baking.

• Microwave-safe bowl: Used to melt the chocolate chips and butter together for the glaze.

• Microwave: Used to melt the chocolate chips and butter in intervals of 30 seconds.

• Spatula: Used to stir the melted chocolate and butter mixture until smooth.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure ingredients like flour, sugar, milk, and chocolate chips.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, salt, and vanilla extract.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use ripe bananas: Ensure your bananas are ripe for easier mashing and better flavor.

Microwave butter: Melt the butter in the microwave to save time.

Quick glaze: Melt chocolate chips and butter together in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds.

Non-stick spray: Use non-stick spray on the donut pan for easy release and quick cleanup.

Cool on wire rack: Transfer donuts to a wire rack to cool faster.