Whole Wheat Baked Vanilla Donuts (Soft & Lightly Sweet)

Whole Wheat Baked Vanilla Donuts

If you’re looking for a simple, feel-good treat that tastes like a classic bakery donut, these whole wheat baked vanilla donuts are just the thing. They’re soft, lightly sweet, and full of warm vanilla flavor—without the need for frying. These donuts are one of those recipes that feel a little special but are actually very easy to make. With simple ingredients and a quick bake time, they’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or a fun weekend treat the whole family will love.

👩‍🍳 Some things you will need:

• medium to large mixing bowl

• donut baking pan (if you have two, even better)

• piping bag or large zip lock bag

❤️ Why You’ll Love These Donuts

• Made with 100% whole wheat flour

• Baked, not fried

• Soft, tender, and lightly sweet

• Simple ingredients you likely already have

• Easy and quick to make

✨ Optional Glaze or Toppings

• Cinnamon sugar coating

• Chocolate drizzle

• Chocolate Glaze

• Vanilla sugar glaze

• Sprinkles for a fun touch

• Plain for a lighter option

• Whipped cream (right before you eat)

📝 Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix—this keeps donuts soft and fluffy

• Use a piping bag (or zip-top bag) for easy filling

• Let donuts cool slightly before removing from the pan

• For extra moisture, don’t overbake

🔄 Substitutions & Variations

• Dairy-free: Use almond or oat milk

• Naturally sweetened: Use maple syrup (reduce milk slightly)

• Extra flavor: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg

• Mini donuts: Use a mini donut pan and reduce bake time

🥡 Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days

• Refrigerate for up to 5 days

• Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw before serving

Recipe

Whole Wheat Baked Vanilla Donuts

Makes about 12 donuts

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of whole wheat flour

• 1/4 cup of milk

• 2 tablespoons of oil

• 1/4 cup of brown sugar

• 1 egg

• 1/2 tablespoon of baking powder

• 1 teaspoon of baking soda

• 1/4 cup of yogurt

• 1/2 tablespoon of vanilla extract

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl mix the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.

2. Then add milk, oil, egg, brown sugar, yogurt, and vanilla. Mix the ingredients well. You can use a hand mixer or a spoon.

3. Then let the batter rest in the refrigerator for one hour.

4. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Scoop or pipe the batter into a greased donut pan and fill about 1/2 full.

5. Bake for 8-12 minutes. You will know the donuts are done because they will start to get a little golden brown on the sides and will be firm but squishy when you touch them.

6. Take the donuts out of the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes. Enjoy.

These whole wheat baked vanilla donuts are a simple, classic recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. They’re soft, lightly sweet, and easy to customize—perfect for making at home whenever you’re craving something a little special. If you try them, I’d love to hear how you topped yours and how your family enjoyed them!

-Tina