Mini donuts are the perfect sweet treat, bringing joy and nostalgia to any occasion. These bite-sized delights are fluffy, sweet, and incredibly versatile. Whether glazed, frosted, or sprinkled, mini donuts can cater to any palate. With this simple recipe, you can whip up a batch in no time, making them ideal for parties, breakfast, or just a fun snack. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these adorable and delicious mini donuts!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
- 2-3 tbsp milk (for glaze consistency)
- Sprinkles (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 12 mini donuts. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 10 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 mini donut) contains approximately 150 calories, 5g fat, 23g carbohydrates, and 2g protein. This information is based on a single serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini donut pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off.
- Pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about halfway.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- In a bowl, mix powdered sugar and milk to create a glaze.
- Dunk the cooled donuts into the glaze and add sprinkles if desired.

Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option. Additionally, almond milk or oat milk can replace buttermilk for a dairy-free version. Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts like almond or lemon for a twist!
Serving and Pairings
These mini donuts pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them a perfect accompaniment for brunch. They can also be served alongside fresh fruit or yogurt for a delightful breakfast treat.
Storage and Reheating
Store mini donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in an oven.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overmixing the batter can lead to dense donuts; mix just until combined.
- Not greasing the pan can cause the donuts to stick.
- Baking at too high a temperature can burn the outside while leaving the inside raw.
- Skipping the cooling time may cause the glaze to run off.
- Using expired baking powder will affect the rise.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different toppings like chocolate or fruit glazes.
- Use a thermometer to ensure your oil is at the right temperature if frying.
- For a fun twist, add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter.
- Let the donuts cool completely before glazing for a better finish.

FAQs
Can I bake mini donuts instead of frying them?
Yes, baking is a healthier option and still yields delicious mini donuts. Follow the baking instructions provided in this recipe for best results.
How do I store leftover mini donuts?
Store leftover mini donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer shelf life.
Can I make mini donuts without eggs?
Absolutely! You can substitute eggs with applesauce or mashed bananas for a vegan version.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes.
How do I know when the mini donuts are done?
Mini donuts are done when they spring back when lightly pressed and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Conclusion
Mini donuts are a delightful treat that can be customized to suit any occasion. With their fluffy texture and endless topping possibilities, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Try making a batch today and enjoy the sweet satisfaction of homemade mini donuts!

Mini Donuts
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup powdered sugar for glaze
- 2-3 tbsp milk for glaze consistency
- Sprinkles optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini donut pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off.
- Pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about halfway.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- In a bowl, mix powdered sugar and milk to create a glaze.
- Dunk the cooled donuts into the glaze and add sprinkles if desired.