Spiced Carrot Cake Donuts Baked Recipe

Who says healthy food has to be boring? I’m here to show you that it can be the most exciting part of your day. These Spiced Carrot Cake Donuts Baked are a total game-changer. They are packed with flavor and goodness, making your kitchen smell like a cozy bakery. If you love baking with carrots, you should definitely try my classic Oatmeal Carrot Cake next.

Imagine a soft, spiced carrot cake. Now picture it in a fun, bakeable donut shape. That’s exactly what we’re making today. This recipe turns a classic dessert into a nourishing morning treat or a satisfying breakfast dessert. It proves that you can have your cake and eat it too, in the best way possible.

We are skipping the fryer and using a donut pan for a lighter, baked version. The result is a tender, moist donut that feels like a hug from the inside. Let’s get started on this vibrant baking adventure together.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American
• Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Servings: 10 donuts

Why This Dish is Secretly Good for You

These donuts are a little powerhouse of nutrition disguised as a treat. Each bite gives you a boost of vitamins and fiber. It’s a sweet way to add more vegetables to your day.

The star here is, of course, the carrot. Carrots are full of beta-carotene, which is great for your eyes and skin. We also use whole wheat flour for extra fiber to keep you full. The warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg aren’t just for flavor. They can help with digestion and add antioxidants to your diet. For another spiced treat that uses similar ingredients, check out my Spiced Carrot Walnut Banana Bread.

My Favorite “Healthy Swap” Ingredients

I love finding simple swaps that make a big difference. They keep things light and bright without losing any joy. For these donuts, I have two key changes that I always use.

First, I use Greek yogurt instead of oil or butter. It adds amazing moisture and a bit of protein. Second, I sweeten the batter with pure maple syrup. It’s a less processed sweetener with a wonderful depth of flavor. These swaps make the donuts feel wholesome and energizing.

The Full “Feel-Good” Ingredient List

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to a happy kitchen. You likely have most of them in your pantry right now. Let’s check them off the list.

• 1 cup white whole wheat flour (or all-purpose)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup milk (any kind)
• 2 tbsp melted coconut oil, cooled
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup finely grated carrot (about 1 large carrot)

For the Simple Glaze Recipe:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tbsp milk or orange juice
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

My Clean & Simple Cooking Method

This process is straightforward and fun. You’ll be pulling warm donuts from the oven in no time. Just follow these easy steps for perfect results every time.

1. Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your donut pan well with a little oil or non-stick spray. This is a key step to make sure they come out easily.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the dry ingredients. That’s the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Give it a good whisk to combine everything evenly.
3. In a larger bowl, mix the wet ingredients. Whisk the egg, maple syrup, Greek yogurt, milk, cooled coconut oil, and vanilla together until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Gently stir them together with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix the batter.
5. Fold in the finely grated carrot. The batter will be thick and lovely, speckled with orange.
6. Spoon the batter into a piping bag or a large zip-top bag. Snip off a corner and pipe the batter evenly into the prepared donut pan cavities, filling each about 3/4 full.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes. The donuts are done when they spring back lightly to the touch. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.
8. Make the glaze. While the donuts cool, whisk the powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon of milk or juice, and vanilla in a small bowl. Add more liquid slowly until you get a smooth, drizzle-able consistency.
9. Once the donuts are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze or drizzle it over with a spoon. Let the glaze set for a few minutes, then enjoy!

How to Meal Prep This for the Week

These donuts are a fantastic make-ahead option for busy mornings. A little planning gives you a healthy treat all week long. Here’s how I do it.

You can bake the donuts and let them cool completely without the glaze. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the unglazed donuts for up to 2 months. Just thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in the toaster oven. Make the fresh glaze right before you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

Nutrition Notes

This is a general breakdown per unglazed donut. Remember, these are meant to be a balanced treat. The glaze will add a bit more sugar, so you can always use less.

• Calories: ~110
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 7g (naturally occurring from maple syrup and carrot)

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I make this without a donut pan?

Yes, you can! This batter works beautifully as muffins. Just grease a muffin tin and fill the cups about 2/3 full. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Check for doneness with a toothpick.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

An equal amount of unsweetened applesauce or mashed ripe banana will work. It will change the flavor slightly but will still keep the donuts moist and delicious. Dairy-free yogurt is also a great option.

How do I store the glazed donuts?

Glazed donuts are best eaten the same day. The glaze can make them a bit soft if stored. If you need to store them, place them in a single layer in an airtight container in the fridge. Let them come to room temperature before eating for the best taste.

I truly hope this recipe brings a spark of joy to your morning routine. It shows how a few smart choices can create something incredibly special. Baking these spiced carrot cake donuts is a wonderful way to treat yourself with kindness.

Your kitchen will be filled with the most inviting aroma. And you’ll have a plate of wholesome, homemade donuts to share. It’s a simple act of baking that feels so good for the soul. If you’re looking for a savory way to enjoy carrots, my warming Ginger Spiced Carrot and Sweet Potato Soup is the perfect comfort food.

I would love to hear how your donuts turn out! Did you add any extra spices or a different twist to the glaze? Please leave a comment and a rating below to let me know!