Butter Pecan Donuts are a delightful treat that perfectly combines the rich flavor of butter and the nutty crunch of pecans. These soft and fluffy donuts are not only easy to make but also a great way to start your day or to enjoy as a sweet snack. The warm, buttery glaze enhances the flavor and makes them even more irresistible!

Why Make This Recipe

You should make Butter Pecan Donuts because they are simple to prepare and full of flavor. The combination of spices adds warmth, while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch. Plus, making donuts at home means you can enjoy them fresh out of the oven, warm and glazed just the way you like. It’s a perfect project for a lazy weekend morning or a fun baking session with friends and family.

How to Make Butter Pecan Donuts

Making Butter Pecan Donuts is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these easy steps to create your own batch of delicious donuts.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Butter Pecan Glaze:

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp heavy cream
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Additional chopped pecans for garnish (optional)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In another bowl, mix the melted butter, buttermilk, egg, and vanilla extract until combined.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients, folding in the toasted pecans gently.
Fill the donut pan with the batter and bake for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown.
For the glaze, melt the butter in a small saucepan, and then add brown sugar and cream. Stir in vanilla and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze and add more pecans on top if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve Butter Pecan Donuts

Serve Butter Pecan Donuts warm, either plain or glazed. They are delicious on their own or paired with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also add a sprinkle of additional chopped pecans for extra crunch.

How to Store Butter Pecan Donuts

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the donuts for up to a month. Just remember to thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!

Tips to Make Butter Pecan Donuts

Make sure your butter is melted and cooled before adding it to the mix to avoid cooking the egg.
Toasting the pecans before adding them enhances their flavor and adds an extra crunch.
Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to regular milk and letting it sit for a few minutes.

Variation

If you want to try a different flavor, substitute walnuts for pecans, or try adding chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist!

FAQs

1. Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?
Yes! You can use a muffin pan instead. Just adjust the baking time, as muffins may take a bit longer to bake.

2. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk. To make it more similar to buttermilk, add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

3. Can I make the donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the batter ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just remember to bake them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy them!