Imagine biting into a donut so moist, so decadent, that it transforms your ordinary morning into an extraordinary culinary experience. These Baked Carrot Cake Donuts aren't just a treat; they're a game-changing breakfast sensation that combines the warm, comforting flavors of classic carrot cake with the irresistible shape of everyone's favorite pastry. Forget everything you know about boring, greasy donuts - this recipe is about to revolutionize your morning routine with its perfect blend of spices, natural sweetness, and luxurious cream cheese frosting!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 donuts
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup grated carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cavity donut pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, mix white sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in grated carrots and chopped walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Carefully spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and donuts are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the cream cheese frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter in a bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Once donuts are completely cool, spread or pipe the cream cheese frosting on top of each donut.
- Optional: Garnish with additional chopped walnuts or a light dusting of cinnamon if desired.
Tips
- Always use fresh, finely grated carrots for the best moisture and texture.
- Don't overmix the batter - this can lead to tough, dense donuts.
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing and consistent baking.
- For extra flavor, toast your walnuts before chopping to enhance their nutty profile.
- Let donuts cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese from melting.
- Use a piping bag or zip-lock bag with the corner cut off for professional-looking frosting.
- Store donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For best results, bring refrigerated donuts to room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
