Looking for a quick and tasty treat? Try out these Easy Homemade Pancake Donuts using pancake mix. This donut recipe is a great way to satisfy your sweet cravings without a fuss. 

With just 4 simple ingredients, you can whip up these easy donuts in no time!

Transforming your favorite pancake mix into simple pancake donuts couldn’t be easier. Just follow the straightforward steps, and in no time, you’ll have a batch of delicious treats ready to enjoy. 

Plus, you can get creative with different flavors for toppings! Whether you prefer classic powdered sugar, chocolate, or vanilla and sprinkles, there’s a topping to suit everyone.

They are super easy to make, not just because they require only four ingredients, but because they are baked, meaning you can skip the frying process and still enjoy that classic donut taste. 

Ingredients you’ll need to make these Pancake Mix Donuts

This recipe calls for only 4 simple ingredients, found in any grocery store:

1. Pancake mix: Using pancake mix simplifies our ingredient list because it already contains the necessary flour and leavening agents. Using it as our base eliminates the need to measure these ingredients separately, making baking more efficient.
2. Egg: Helps bind the ingredients together and keeps the donuts moist. Opt for room-temperature eggs, they mix better, resulting in a smoother batter. They also incorporate air more easily for a lighter texture.
3. Yogurt:  Adds richness and moisture to the donuts, making them softer and more flavorful. Full-fat yogurt is preferred, since it provides a creamier texture and contributes to a tender crumb.
4. Milk: Contributes to the richness of the batter, ensuring a tender texture and creamy taste to the donuts. Use full-fat milk for extra tenderness and moistness.

Take a look at the recipe card at the bottom of this post for the full recipe.

Add-ins and Substitutions

Add-ins:

• Chocolate chips: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
• Chopped nuts: Add some crunch and flavor by mixing in chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans.
• Sprinkles: For a fun and colorful touch, fold in some sprinkles into the batter before baking.
• Shredded coconut: Incorporate shredded coconut for a tropical vibe and added texture.
• Diced fresh fruit: Gently fold in diced fresh fruit such as strawberries or blueberries, for bursts of natural sweetness and flavor.

Substitutions:

• Greek yogurt: If you prefer a tangier flavor, substitute full-fat Greek yogurt for regular yogurt.
• Buttermilk: Replace the full-fat milk with buttermilk for a slightly tangy taste and extra tenderness in the donuts.
• Vegetable oil: If you’re out of eggs or prefer an egg-free option, substitute each egg with 1/4 cup of vegetable oil to maintain moisture in the donuts.
• Brown sugar: Swap out the granulated sugar for brown sugar to add a richer, caramel-like flavor to the donuts. Brown sugar also adds moisture, resulting in a softer texture. You can use an equal amount of brown sugar as you would granulated sugar, but feel free to adjust the sweetness to your preference.
• Honey or maple syrup: Instead of using granulated sugar, sweeten the batter with honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetener option. Adjust the amount to taste

Topping Ideas

Feel free to choose from or combine any of these topping ideas to personalize your homemade doughnuts according to your taste preferences!

Vanilla:

• Combine 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of heavy whipping cream, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract in a bowl.
• Whisk together until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream if needed.
• Drizzle or dip the cooled donuts into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them on a wire rack to set.

Chocolate Ganache:

• In a small saucepan, heat 1/4 cup of heavy whipping cream over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
• Place 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Pour the hot cream over the chocolate chips and let it sit for 1-2 minutes.
• Gently stir the mixture until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
• Dip the cooled donuts into the ganache, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them on a wire rack to set.

Powdered Sugar:

• Simply roll the donuts in powdered sugar until they are evenly coated. You can adjust the amount of powdered sugar according to your preference.

Granulated Sugar:

• Roll the warm donuts in granulated sugar until they are completely coated. The sugar will stick to the slightly moist surface of the donuts, creating a sweet and crunchy exterior.

Cinnamon Sugar:

• In a shallow dish, mix 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of powdered cinnamon.
• Dip the warm donuts in melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.

Maple Glaze:

• In a bowl, combine 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of pure maple syrup, and 1-2 tablespoons of milk or cream.
• Whisk until smooth, adding more milk or cream as needed to achieve your desired consistency.
• Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Place them on a wire rack to set.

How to make these pancake doughnuts

To start making these homemade donuts, begin by generously spraying your donut pan with cooking spray or using a nonstick spray. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Next, in a large mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients with and the wet ingredients until just blended. It’s crucial not to overmix the pancake batter to maintain its fluffy texture.

Then, transfer the batter into a piping bag or a zip lock bag for easy filling. Fill each section of the donut pan approximately two-thirds full.

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 12-16 minutes, or until the donuts turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

After removing them from the oven, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, decorate the donuts with your favorite toppings. Then, indulge in the scrumptious goodness of your homemade treats!

Expert Tips

1. Avoid Overbeating: When mixing the batter, gently combine the ingredients until just blended. Overmixing can lead to tough and dense donuts.
2. Prevent Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the donuts while they’re in the oven to ensure they don’t overbake. They should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
3. Use the Spoon and Level Method: For accurate measurements of flour, use the spoon and level method. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup and then level it off with a flat edge for precise amounts.
4. Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your ingredients, especially eggs and dairy, to come to room temperature before using them. Room-temperature ingredients mix more evenly, resulting in a smoother batter and better rise.
5. Properly Grease the Donut Pan: Make sure to thoroughly grease the donut pan with cooking spray or oil to prevent the donuts from sticking. This ensures they come out easily and in one piece.
6. Let the Donuts Cool Completely: Allow the donuts to cool completely on a wire rack before adding any toppings or glazes. This prevents the toppings from melting or sliding off.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of pancake mix for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any brand or type of pancake mix for this recipe. I used Krusteaz Pancake Mix.

How long do these donuts stay fresh, and how should they be stored?

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made. If storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

If ganache was used as a topping, place them in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

Can I freeze these donuts for later?

Yes, you can freeze these donuts for later. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to one month.

Let them thaw overnight at room temperature before using.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free pancake mix?

Absolutely! You can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free pancake mix.

Take a look at this link to see more Easy Dessert Recipes like this one. You can also take a look at the recipes below for more similar recipes. 

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