Pancake Donuts

Pancake Donuts bring together the best of both breakfast worlds — the comforting fluffiness of pancakes and the delightful handheld convenience of donuts. Lightly sweetened and baked to golden perfection, these treats are topped with a silky maple glaze that enhances their warm, buttery flavor. They’re perfect for weekend brunches, special mornings, or simply when you crave something indulgent yet easy to prepare. Pair them with your favorite hot beverage, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence. Once you try them, you’ll wonder why you didn’t turn your pancakes into donuts sooner!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 3/4 cup buttermilk

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Maple Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

• 1–2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

3. In another bowl, whisk buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. Transfer the batter into a piping bag or zip-top bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.

6. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean.

7. While the donuts cool, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and enough milk to reach desired consistency.

8. Dip cooled donuts into the glaze and let set on a wire rack before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes

Kcal: 180 kcal | Servings: 8 donuts

The Background of Pancake Donuts

Pancake donuts are the delightful hybrid treat that combines the light, fluffy texture of pancakes with the satisfying shape and portability of donuts. This creative twist originated from home bakers who wanted to bring the comfort of weekend pancake breakfasts into an easy-to-eat form without the need for a griddle. Instead of flipping pancakes one at a time, the batter is poured into a donut pan and baked to perfection. This method not only saves time but also creates a golden exterior and a tender, airy interior. While the concept is relatively new in the baking world, it has quickly become a brunch favorite thanks to its convenience, versatility, and undeniable charm.

Why Pancake Donuts Stand Out

Pancake donuts aren’t just another trendy breakfast idea — they offer the nostalgic flavor of pancakes paired with the elegant presentation of donuts. Their appeal lies in the fact that you don’t need deep frying, making them a lighter and healthier option compared to traditional fried donuts. Plus, the addition of a maple glaze gives them a comforting sweetness reminiscent of classic pancake syrup, making every bite taste like a complete breakfast. They are perfect for families, brunch parties, or even as a grab-and-go snack during busy mornings.

Healthier Alternative to Traditional Donuts

By baking instead of frying, pancake donuts significantly reduce oil consumption, which means fewer calories and less saturated fat. You can also customize the batter to suit dietary needs — swapping all-purpose flour for whole wheat, using almond or oat flour for gluten-free versions, or substituting dairy milk with plant-based options. Additionally, because they are baked in small portions, they naturally encourage better portion control, allowing you to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging.

The Versatility of Pancake Donuts

One of the reasons pancake donuts have taken the breakfast scene by storm is their versatility. While this recipe features a maple glaze for a sweet, traditional flavor, you can experiment with various toppings and mix-ins. Add chocolate chips, fresh berries, or cinnamon for a fun twist, or drizzle with melted peanut butter for added richness. They also pair beautifully with fresh fruit platters, yogurt, or whipped cream, making them suitable for both casual breakfasts and festive brunch spreads.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Busy Mornings

Pancake donuts can be made ahead of time and stored for quick breakfasts throughout the week. They keep well in airtight containers for a few days and can even be frozen for longer storage. A quick 10-second warm-up in the microwave brings them back to their soft, fluffy state, making them a practical choice for anyone with a busy schedule. This make-ahead convenience is one of the reasons they’ve become a go-to recipe for parents and professionals alike.

Why This Recipe is the Best

This particular pancake donut recipe stands out because of its simplicity, reliable texture, and crowd-pleasing flavor. The combination of buttermilk, butter, and vanilla gives the donuts a rich yet balanced taste, while baking ensures even cooking without the greasiness of frying. The maple glaze is the finishing touch, adding a layer of sweetness that complements rather than overpowers the donut itself. It’s a recipe that works for beginners and experienced bakers alike, delivering perfect results every time.

Tips for Making Perfect Pancake Donuts

For the fluffiest texture, avoid overmixing the batter — stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Use a piping bag or a zip-top bag to neatly fill the donut pan, which ensures even baking and uniform shapes. Let the donuts cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from sliding off completely. For a thicker glaze, use less milk; for a thinner coating, add a bit more. If you want extra flavor depth, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.

Creative Serving Ideas

Pancake donuts are as fun to serve as they are to eat. Arrange them on a tiered cake stand for brunch gatherings, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant touch, or create a “donut bar” with bowls of various glazes and toppings so guests can decorate their own. They also make wonderful edible gifts — simply place them in a bakery box tied with ribbon for a charming, homemade treat.

Perfect for All Occasions

Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast, a birthday brunch, or a holiday morning, pancake donuts fit right in. Their appealing shape and texture make them loved by both children and adults. They’re also easy to adapt for seasonal flavors — think pumpkin spice glaze in the fall, peppermint glaze during the winter holidays, or fresh lemon icing for spring and summer.

Conclusion

Pancake donuts are the perfect marriage of comfort and creativity, bringing together the best qualities of pancakes and donuts in one irresistible bite. They’re quick to prepare, healthier than traditional fried options, endlessly customizable, and beautiful to present. Whether you’re hosting a special brunch or simply looking for a fun new breakfast idea, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Once you’ve experienced the joy of biting into a soft, maple-glazed pancake donut, you’ll understand why they’ve earned a place in the hearts of home bakers everywhere.