17 Baked Donuts That Are Better Than Fried
There’s something magical about a warm donut in the morning—but you don’t need a deep fryer to make it happen. Baked donuts are soft, golden, and easier than you’d think, with no splatter, smoke, or standing over a pot of oil.
They rise in the oven with that perfect tender bite, and they’re just as sweet, sticky, and satisfying as their fried cousins.
These 17 baked donut recipes bring all the joy, none of the grease, and plenty of chances to lick your fingers. Whether you’re into fruit, spice, glaze, or wild combos, this list has something for every donut mood.
1. Vanilla Glazed Baked Donuts
The vanilla glaze hardens into a shiny shell that gives way to the softest golden cake underneath. It’s the kind of donut that makes you slow down, just for a second.
It tastes like birthday mornings and bakery cases. Simple, sweet, and always hits the spot.
2. Chocolate Fudge Baked Donuts
Deep cocoa batter bakes into rich, tender rings that almost taste like cake—but denser, fudgier. A thick chocolate glaze gets poured on while still warm, dripping over the sides in dark, glossy ribbons.
It’s bold without being too sweet. The kind of treat you don’t need coffee to wake up for, but it doesn’t hurt.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Baked Donuts
Rolled warm in melted butter, then tossed in cinnamon sugar until they sparkle. The bite is soft and buttery, with just enough spice to remind you of French toast.
They’re the kind you can never stop at one. Pure comfort, no fork required.
4. Lemon Poppy Seed Donuts
Bright lemon zest and tart glaze make these sing with citrus. Tiny poppy seeds dot the dough, giving it a little crunch and a lot of character.
They’re fresh, not fussy. Perfect for mornings when you want something sunny before noon.
5. Baked Maple Bacon Donuts
Sticky maple glaze clings to crumbled bacon bits, giving every bite a hit of salty-sweet. The donut underneath is soft, almost like a pancake, with just the right amount of chew.
It’s breakfast and dessert rolled into one. Smoky, sweet, and totally addictive.
6. Apple Cider Baked Donuts
Boiled cider deepens the flavor, giving these donuts a spiced, almost caramel apple edge. The cinnamon sugar coating crackles slightly with each bite.
They taste like fall fairs and fresh-pressed juice. One whiff and you’ll feel like pulling on a sweater.
7. Strawberry Shortcake Donuts
Chunks of juicy strawberry melt into the batter, making them soft and fragrant all the way through. Topped with whipped cream and crumbled cookies, they’re as playful as they are pretty.
Dessert for breakfast? Yes, please. Light, fruity, and a little fancy.
8. Pumpkin Spice Baked Donuts
Pumpkin purée keeps them moist, while cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove bring that cozy, spiced warmth. The glaze adds just a touch of sweetness to round it all out.
They’re fall in donut form. Soft, rich, and gone before you know it.
9. Blueberry Crumble Donuts
Berries burst inside the batter, staining the dough with purple pockets of juice. A brown sugar crumble on top bakes into sweet, crispy magic.
They taste like the best part of a muffin—times ten. Juicy, crunchy, and full of soul.
10. Baked Samoa-Style Donuts
Toasted coconut, caramel drizzle, and a ring of dark chocolate bring cookie magic to the donut world. The base is simple, letting the toppings take center stage.
They’re rich, sticky, and unapologetically fun. Like a Girl Scout reunion in donut form.
11. Churro-Inspired Baked Donuts
Warm spices swirl through the dough, while the cinnamon sugar coating clings to every ridge. They bake up golden and roll right into that crunchy, sweet layer.
No frying needed. Just buttery, sugary perfection from your oven.
12. Coconut Cream Baked Donuts
Coconut milk in the batter makes them soft and light, almost like a tropical cloud. A coconut glaze and shredded topping take it even further.
They’re cool, creamy, and totally unexpected. The kind of donut that feels like a vacation.
13. Mocha Glazed Donuts
Bitter espresso and dark chocolate team up for a rich, grown-up glaze. The donut itself is soft, with a subtle coffee flavor that lingers.
They go best with a cup of the real thing. But they’re just bold enough to stand alone.
14. Raspberry Jam-Filled Baked Donuts
Raspberry jam-filled baked donuts are a sweet surprise waiting to be discovered.
Each donut is filled with luscious raspberry jam, offering a burst of fruity flavor with every bite.
15. Birthday Cake Sprinkle Donuts
Funfetti-style batter bakes into light, colorful rings with sprinkles peeking through. A vanilla glaze and even more sprinkles on top make them pop.
They’re pure celebration, no candles needed. Bright, sweet, and impossible not to smile at.
16. Carrot Cake Donuts With Cream Cheese Glaze
Grated carrot, walnuts, and spices turn this batter into something deeply cozy. The tangy cream cheese glaze brings it all home.
They taste like the best slice of carrot cake—only handheld. Soft, nutty, and full of flavor.
17. Baked S’mores Donuts
A graham cracker crumb crust, gooey marshmallow topping, and melted chocolate drizzle steal the show. The donut underneath holds it all like a sweet campfire platform.
They’re messy, melty, and over-the-top in the best way. Like summer nights, no bonfire needed.
