Banana Baked Donuts Simple Homemade Recipe

By:

Lyra Stone

Published:

March 24, 2026

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Why You’ll Love These Banana Donuts

If you have ripe bananas on the counter, these Banana Donuts are a fast and cozy way to turn them into something special. This easy homemade recipe from Savoring Flavors is great for busy mornings, after-school snacks, or a simple treat with coffee or tea.

Easy to make: These baked banana donuts use one bowl for the dry ingredients and one bowl for the wet ingredients, so the prep stays simple. You only need about 15 minutes to mix everything together before baking.
Better choice for everyday snacking: Since they are baked, not fried, these baked banana donuts feel lighter than many traditional donut recipes. Each donut has 268 calories and a nice balance of carbs, fat, and protein.
Flexible for different needs: This banana donut recipe works well for busy parents, students, and working professionals because the batter can be made ahead. You can also try swaps for dairy-free or gluten-free needs with a few simple changes.
Warm banana flavor with a nutty finish: The mashed overripe bananas bring sweetness and moisture, while the brown butter icing adds a rich, nutty taste that makes these homemade banana donuts stand out.

These banana baked donuts are the kind of recipe that feels comforting, but still quick enough for a regular weekday.

For anyone who loves simple baking, this is one of those easy banana donuts recipes you will want to make again and again.

Jump to:

Why You’ll Love These Banana Donuts
Essential Ingredients for Banana Donuts
Banana Donuts Ingredients
Brown Butter Icing Ingredients
Special Dietary Options
How to Prepare the Perfect Banana Donuts: Step-by-Step Guide
First Step: Get the oven and pan ready
Second Step: Mix the dry ingredients
Third Step: Stir together the wet ingredients
Fourth Step: Combine the batter gently
Fifth Step: Fill the donut mold
Sixth Step: Bake until set
Seventh Step: Cool before icing
Eighth Step: Make the brown butter icing
Ninth Step: Dip and serve
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Banana Donuts
Protein and Main Component Alternatives
Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications
Mastering Banana Donuts: Advanced Tips and Variations
Pro cooking techniques
Flavor variations
Presentation tips
Make-ahead options
How to Store Banana Donuts: Best Practices
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Donuts
What type of bananas work best for banana donuts?
How do you make brown butter for banana donuts?
Can you make banana donuts ahead of time?
Why use unsalted butter in banana donut recipes?
How can you thin brown butter icing for banana donuts?
Banana Donuts
Ingredients
Instructions
Last Step:
Notes
Nutrition
Did you make this recipe?

Essential Ingredients for Banana Donuts

Before you start, gather all the ingredients for both the donuts and the brown butter icing. Using the exact amounts below will help you get soft, tender homemade banana donuts with the right texture.

Banana Donuts Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour – Gives the donuts their structure and helps the batter hold shape in the mold.
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed – Adds sweetness and a light caramel note that pairs well with banana.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and brings out the banana flavor.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the donuts rise and gives them a soft, cake-like texture.
2 overripe bananas, mashed – Adds natural sweetness, moisture, and strong banana flavor.
2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and tenderness to the batter.
1 large egg – Binds the ingredients together and helps the donuts bake up with a tender crumb.

Brown Butter Icing Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter – Browned for a nutty flavor that makes the icing special.
1 cup powdered sugar – Creates a smooth, sweet icing.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds warmth and a classic bakery-style flavor.
Milk or heavy cream, as needed – Thins the icing to the right dipping consistency.

Special Dietary Options

Vegan: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based butter. For the icing, use a dairy-free butter and non-dairy milk.
Gluten-free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Low-calorie: Reduce the icing amount or use a lighter drizzle instead of dipping the full donut tops.

If you want to read more about the fruit itself, check out this helpful guide on the health benefits of bananas.

How to Prepare the Perfect Banana Donuts: Step-by-Step Guide

These banana baked donuts come together quickly, and the process is easy enough for beginners. If you have ever looked for a simple homemade banana baked donuts recipe, this one keeps the steps clear and calm from start to finish.

First Step: Get the oven and pan ready

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a donut mold with non-stick spray so the donuts release easily after baking. This is a helpful step for anyone making homemade banana donuts for the first time, since baked donuts can stick if the pan is not prepared well.

While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and set out two mixing bowls, a whisk, a spoon or spatula, and a cooling rack. Having everything nearby makes the process smoother, especially if you are baking while helping kids with homework or juggling other tasks.

Second Step: Mix the dry ingredients

In one bowl, whisk together the flour, light brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. This helps spread the leavening evenly through the flour, which gives the donuts a more even rise. If you are measuring flour, spoon it into the cup and level it off, or weigh it if you prefer accuracy. That small step helps prevent dense donuts.

Third Step: Stir together the wet ingredients

In a second bowl, combine the mashed overripe bananas, melted unsalted butter, and egg. Mix until smooth and well blended. The bananas should be mashed well, with no large chunks, so the batter turns out even and tender. Overripe bananas with brown spots work best because they are sweeter and softer.

If your bananas are not very soft yet, let them sit a bit longer at room temperature or speed things up by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two. This helps make the best banana donut recipe more reliable.

Fourth Step: Combine the batter gently

Pour the wet mixture into the dry mixture and gently fold everything together until just combined. The batter will be thick, and that is exactly what you want. Do not overmix, since that can make the donuts tough instead of light and tender.

If the batter seems a little dry, you can add a spoonful of applesauce for extra moisture, as suggested in the recipe tips. That small adjustment can be useful if your bananas are not very large or if your flour was packed too tightly.

Fifth Step: Fill the donut mold

Spoon the batter into the donut molds, filling each one about three-quarters full. A small spoon or piping bag can help keep the batter neat, but a regular spoon works just fine. Smooth the tops lightly if needed so they bake evenly.

This step matters because overfilling can cause the donuts to puff too much and lose their shape. Filling only three-quarters full gives the donuts room to rise while still holding that classic donut form.

Sixth Step: Bake until set

Bake the donuts for 17 to 20 minutes, or until they spring back when pressed lightly in the center. Every oven is a little different, so start checking near the 17-minute mark. The tops should look set and lightly golden.

Because these are baked banana donuts, you do not need to worry about frying oil or splatter. That makes this recipe a good fit for home cooks who want a simple, lower-mess treat.

Seventh Step: Cool before icing

Let the donuts cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then move them to a cooling rack and let them cool completely. This is important because warm donuts can make the icing melt and slide off.

Cooling also gives the crumb time to set. If you are in a hurry, resist the urge to ice too soon. The finished texture is better when the donuts are fully cooled.

Eighth Step: Make the brown butter icing

Set a saucepan over medium heat and melt the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it continue cooking until it foams and brown bits form at the bottom, which takes about 5 minutes. You will notice a nutty aroma as the butter browns.

Remove the pan from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. If the icing is too thick, thin it with a little milk or heavy cream until it is easy to dip. Brown butter gives the icing a deep, rich flavor without changing the texture of the donuts.

Ninth Step: Dip and serve

Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the icing, then place them back on the rack so the glaze can set. For a sweeter finish, you can dip them twice, but one layer gives a nice balance of flavor. Serve them the same day for the best taste and texture.

If you enjoy banana bakes in general, you may also like this collection of simple breakfast recipes for more cozy ideas from the blog.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Banana Donuts

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

If you need to adjust this banana donut recipe, there are a few easy swaps that still keep the donuts soft and tasty. For a vegan version, replace the large egg with a flax egg made from ground flaxseed and water. You can also use a plant-based butter in both the batter and the icing.

For a gluten-free version, use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. If the batter seems a little looser or thicker than expected, let it rest for a few minutes before baking. This gives the flour time to absorb moisture and helps the donuts bake more evenly.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

While this recipe does not use vegetables, you can still make small changes in the topping or flavoring. If you want a lighter finish, make a simple vanilla glaze instead of brown butter icing. For a dairy-free sauce, use non-dairy milk in the icing, such as almond milk or oat milk.

You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warmer flavor. If you want a softer result, a spoonful of applesauce can help add moisture. These changes work well for different tastes, seasons, and diets without making the recipe complicated.

Mastering Banana Donuts: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you have made these homemade banana donuts once, small adjustments can help you get even better results next time. A few simple habits make a big difference in texture, flavor, and appearance.

Pro cooking techniques

Measure flour the right way: Weigh it if possible, or spoon and level it carefully. Too much flour can make the donuts heavy.
Use the right bananas: Overripe bananas with brown spots bring the best flavor and softness.
Do not overmix: Stir only until the batter comes together. Overmixing can make the donuts chewy.
Brown the butter carefully: Watch it closely once it starts foaming. Brown butter gives a nutty taste without changing the donut texture.

Flavor variations

You can add cinnamon to the batter for a warm spice note or a tiny splash of maple extract for a bakery-style twist. Chopped walnuts or mini chocolate chips can also be folded into the batter if you want a little extra texture. If you like a brighter finish, a sprinkle of flaky salt on top of the icing can balance the sweetness nicely.

Presentation tips

For a pretty finish, dip only the tops of the donuts into the icing and let the glaze drip naturally. Set them on a wire rack lined with parchment to catch the drips. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few banana slices on the serving plate can make the donuts look special without extra work.

Make-ahead options

This easy baked banana donuts recipe fits busy schedules well. You can mix the dry ingredients ahead of time, and the wet mixture can be prepared a little early too. The batter may be refrigerated or frozen ahead, which is helpful for meal prep or weekend baking plans. If the donuts seem dry after baking, a small spoonful of applesauce in the batter next time can add more moisture.

Best eaten the same day, these donuts still fit into real life because the batter can be made ahead when needed.

How to Store Banana Donuts: Best Practices

These banana donuts taste best fresh, but you can still store them well if you have leftovers. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day. If you need them to last a little longer, refrigerate them for up to 2 days.

For freezing, place the cooled, uniced donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can stay frozen for up to 1 month. When you are ready to eat them, thaw at room temperature and warm them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes if desired. It is best to add the icing after reheating so the topping stays smooth.

For meal prep, you can make the batter ahead and refrigerate or freeze it before baking. This is useful for students, busy parents, and working professionals who want a quick homemade snack later in the week.

Nutrient	Per Donut
Calories	268
Carbohydrates	43.7g
Protein	3.5g
Fat	9.8g
Saturated Fat	5.9g
Cholesterol	48mg
Sodium	164mg
Potassium	208mg
Fiber	1.2g
Sugar	28.1g
Calcium	42mg
Iron	1mg

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Banana Donuts

What type of bananas work best for banana donuts?

Overripe bananas with lots of brown spots on the peel are ideal for banana donuts. These bananas are soft, sweet, and mash easily, providing natural moisture and intense banana flavor without extra sugar. Avoid green or barely ripe bananas, as they lack sweetness and can make the batter dry. To prepare, peel 2-3 medium overripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed) and mash them smoothly with a fork or potato masher until no large chunks remain. This ensures even distribution in the batter for tender, flavorful donuts. If you don’t have overripe ones, ripen them faster by placing in a paper bag for 1-2 days. Using the right bananas guarantees moist donuts that hold their shape when baked or fried. (92 words)

How do you make brown butter for banana donuts?

Brown butter adds a nutty depth to banana donut icing or batter. Start with ½ cup unsalted butter in a light-colored saucepan over medium heat. Melt it, stirring occasionally, until it foams and crackles (about 2-3 minutes). Watch for brown bits forming at the bottom and a nutty aroma (total 5-7 minutes). Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning, then strain through a fine mesh sieve into a bowl. Cool slightly before using. It solidifies when chilled, so remelt gently if needed. Store in the fridge up to 2 weeks or freeze for 3 months. This simple step transforms basic butter into a flavorful upgrade for your donuts. (104 words)

Can you make banana donuts ahead of time?

Yes, but fresh is best for banana donuts to enjoy their soft texture. Prepare the batter up to 24 hours ahead: mix dry and wet ingredients separately, cover, and refrigerate. For longer storage, freeze unbaked batter portions in airtight bags for up to 1 month—thaw overnight in the fridge before baking. Bake as directed, adding 1-2 extra minutes if cold. Fried donuts don’t freeze well post-cooking due to oil absorption. Glaze or ice just before serving. Store baked donuts in an airtight container at room temp for 1 day or fridge for 2 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes to refresh. This flexibility suits busy schedules without sacrificing taste. (112 words)

Why use unsalted butter in banana donut recipes?

Unsalted butter lets you control salt levels precisely, as salted varieties differ in salt content by brand (typically ¼ tsp per ½ cup). In banana donuts, this prevents overseasoning the batter or icing, balancing sweet banana and nutty brown butter flavors. It also browns evenly without excess salt interfering. If substituting salted butter, reduce added salt by half and taste the batter before baking. For dairy-free options, use plant-based unsalted sticks like those from Miyoko’s. Always room-temp soften for creaming with sugar to achieve light, fluffy donuts. This choice ensures consistent, professional results every time. (98 words)

How can you thin brown butter icing for banana donuts?

If brown butter icing is too thick for drizzling on banana donuts, thin it gradually with milk or heavy cream. Start with 1 tsp at a time to 1 cup icing, stirring until smooth and spreadable. Whole milk adds creaminess, heavy cream boosts richness, or use plant-based alternatives like almond milk for dairy-free. Warm the icing slightly over low heat while stirring to incorporate liquids evenly without curdling. Ideal consistency coats the back of a spoon and ribbons off. Apply to cooled donuts for best adhesion. This adjustment prevents crumbly icing and creates a glossy finish that enhances donut appeal. (96 words)