Baking gluten free donuts with almond flour is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier, homemade alternative to traditional donuts. These baked donuts are soft, moist, and bursting with nutty flavor, making them a great addition to your gluten free dessert repertoire. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
If you’re in the mood for a creamy and indulgent pairing, try this gluten free banana pudding recipe for a dessert duo that satisfies every craving.
Why Choose Almond Flour for Donuts?
Almond flour is one of the most versatile and nutritious options for gluten free baking. Here’s why it works so well in donuts:
- Nutritional Value: Almond flour is low in carbs, rich in protein, and packed with healthy fats and vitamins like vitamin E. It’s an excellent choice for those on a low-carb or keto diet.
- Moist Texture: Its natural fat content keeps baked goods tender and moist, unlike some other gluten free flours that can create a dry texture.
- Nutty Flavor: The mild, slightly sweet taste of almond flour complements the warm flavors of vanilla and cinnamon commonly used in donuts.
For a decadent chocolate option, consider making these fudgy gluten free brownies to add variety to your gluten free treats.
Ingredients for Gluten Free Almond Flour Donuts
This recipe yields about 12 standard-sized donuts.
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 4 tbsp coconut flour (for structure and balance)
- 2 tsp baking powder
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup sugar or monk fruit sweetener (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- ½ cup melted butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
- 2 tbsp almond milk (or any dairy-free alternative)
- 4 large eggs (room temperature for better mixing)
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Optional Toppings
- Shredded coconut
- Dark chocolate drizzle
- Powdered sugar
- Cinnamon sugar (1 cup sugar mixed with 1 tbsp cinnamon)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a metal or silicone donut pan generously to prevent sticking.
Making the Batter
- In a medium bowl, combine almond flour, coconut flour, and baking powder. Whisk to remove lumps.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and mix in melted butter, sweetener, vanilla extract, and almond milk. Stir until smooth.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, ensuring no lumps remain.
Baking the Donuts
- Transfer the batter to a piping bag for neat and even filling. If you don’t have a piping bag, use a plastic bag with the corner snipped off.
- Fill each donut mold about three-quarters full to allow room for the donuts to rise.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooling and Removing from the Pan
- Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes to prevent breakage. Then gently remove them and place them on a wire rack to cool completely.
Creative Variations
Take your gluten free almond flour donuts to the next level with these exciting and flavorful twists:
Pumpkin Spice Donuts
Infuse the flavors of fall by adding 1 tsp pumpkin spice mix (or a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves) to the dry ingredients. Top these donuts with a cream cheese glaze for the ultimate autumn treat.
Berry Burst Donuts
Fold in ½ cup of fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries into the batter for a burst of fruity goodness. To enhance the flavor, add a lemon glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Low-Carb Donuts
For a keto-friendly version, swap sugar with low-carb sweeteners like stevia, erythritol, or monk fruit sweetener. Pair these with a sugar-free chocolate drizzle or a sprinkle of crushed nuts.
Chocolate Glaze Donuts
Make these donuts extra indulgent by dipping the tops in a silky chocolate ganache made with melted dark chocolate and almond milk. Sprinkle with shredded coconut, crushed almonds, or colorful sprinkles for a fun finishing touch.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
After baking, brush the warm donuts with melted butter and coat them generously in a mix of cinnamon and sugar (1 cup sugar + 1 tbsp cinnamon). This variation gives a nostalgic, classic flavor that pairs wonderfully with coffee.
Nutty Caramel Donuts
Drizzle a homemade caramel sauce over the donuts and sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for a decadent, nutty finish.
Vanilla Sprinkle Donuts
Add a splash of almond extract to the batter for extra flavor, and top the donuts with a simple vanilla glaze and colorful gluten free sprinkles. These are perfect for birthdays or celebrations.
Zesty Lemon Donuts
Incorporate 1 tsp lemon zest into the batter and finish with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar, lemon juice, and a touch of almond milk. Garnish with candied lemon slices for a fresh and tangy twist.
Matcha Green Tea Donuts
Mix 1 tsp matcha powder into the dry ingredients for a vibrant green hue and earthy flavor. Pair these with a white chocolate glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Spiced Chai Donuts
Add ½ tsp chai spice blend to the dry ingredients for a warm, aromatic flavor. Top with a maple glaze for a donut that feels like a cozy cup of chai tea.
Pair any of these creative variations with a fresh fruit salad with spinach and croutons to balance the sweetness with a refreshing side. These twists ensure your almond flour donuts can be customized to suit any occasion or taste preference!
Tips for Perfect Gluten Free Donuts
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room-temperature eggs and almond milk helps the batter mix evenly.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense donuts. Stir until the ingredients are just combined.
- Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on the donuts and remove them as soon as they’re golden and set. Overbaking can dry them out.
- Store Properly: Keep the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. Freeze for longer storage.
FAQs
Can I use a different gluten free flour?
Yes, but the results may vary. Coconut flour is an alternative, but it’s more absorbent, so you’ll need to adjust the liquid ratios.
How do I store these donuts?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. For long-term storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
Do I need a donut pan?
While a donut pan is ideal, you can use a muffin tin as an alternative. Cut out the centers with a round cutter to mimic the donut shape.
Can I make these donuts dairy-free?
Absolutely! Replace butter with coconut oil and use almond milk or another dairy-free alternative.
Conclusion
Gluten free almond flour donuts are a versatile and delicious treat that caters to a variety of dietary preferences. Whether you enjoy them plain or topped with chocolate, powdered sugar, or shredded coconut, they’re sure to be a hit. Serve them for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert to delight your family and friends.
For another fall-inspired delight, try these gluten free pumpkin cookies. They’re perfect for pairing with these donuts for a full seasonal spread.
Happy baking!