Butter Pecan Donuts Recipe

If you’re a fan of nutty, buttery desserts with a warm, cozy flavor—this Butter Pecan Donuts recipe is calling your name! These baked donuts are soft, tender, and glazed with a luscious butter pecan icing that melts in your mouth. With toasted pecans mixed in and sprinkled on top, each bite delivers a delightful crunch and rich, caramel-like sweetness.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Rich Butter Pecan Flavor – Toasted pecans and brown butter come together for a classic Southern taste.
No Frying Required – These donuts are baked, not fried, making them easier and lighter.
Perfect for Fall (or Anytime) – Great with coffee on a crisp morning or for holiday brunch.
Easy to Make – No mixer needed, just a bowl and a whisk.
Beautiful to Serve – The glossy glaze and pecan topping make them look bakery-worthy!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Donuts:
1 cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar (light or dark)
1 tsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
½ tsp cinnamon
½ cup buttermilk (or mix ½ cup milk with 1 tsp vinegar)
1 large egg
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Butter Pecan Glaze:
4 tbsp unsalted butter
½ cup chopped pecans
1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk (adjust for thickness)
½ tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:
Extra chopped toasted pecans
Drizzle of caramel sauce

Tools You’ll Need
Donut pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Rubber spatula
Small saucepan
Wire rack for cooling
Toothpick or skewer for checking doneness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes until fragrant.
Let them cool, then divide: half will go in the batter, half for the glaze/topping.

Step 2: Make the Donut Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In a separate bowl, mix buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir gently until just combined.
Fold in ¼ to ½ cup of the toasted pecans.

Step 3: Fill the Donut Pan
Lightly grease your donut pan.
Spoon or pipe the batter into each cavity, filling about ¾ full.
Smooth the tops with a spatula if needed.

Step 4: Bake the Donuts
Bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

Step 5: Make the Butter Pecan Glaze
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add remaining chopped pecans and cook for 2–3 minutes until the butter starts to brown slightly.
Remove from heat and stir in powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt.
Whisk until smooth. Adjust with more milk if needed for a pourable consistency.

Step 6: Glaze the Donuts
Dip the tops of the cooled donuts into the warm glaze or spoon it over them.
Sprinkle with extra pecans or drizzle with caramel sauce while glaze is still soft.
Let set for 10–15 minutes (if you can wait that long!).

Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Donuts
Don’t Overmix – Stir just until ingredients come together for light, fluffy donuts.
Use Fresh Pecans – Toasting enhances their nutty flavor and adds great texture.
Brown the Butter Slightly – This adds depth and a slightly nutty, caramel flavor to the glaze.
Cool Donuts Before Glazing – Warm donuts will cause the glaze to slide right off.
Use a Piping Bag – It makes filling the donut pan quick and mess-free.

Serving Suggestions
Morning Coffee – These donuts are perfect with a hot cup of coffee or chai latte.
Holiday Brunch – Serve them alongside fruit, eggs, and a cozy breakfast spread.
After-Dinner Treat – Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Gift Idea – Wrap them in parchment paper and box them up for a thoughtful homemade treat.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate: Will keep for 4–5 days, though glaze may harden slightly.

Reheating:
Microwave: Warm for 10–15 seconds for that fresh-baked softness.
Oven: Heat at 300°F for 5 minutes to refresh texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pecans?
   Yes, but toasting them at home brings out a fresher, deeper flavor.
2. What if I don’t have a donut pan?
   Use a muffin tin and bake as donut “muffins.” Adjust baking time to 12–15 minutes.
3. Can I make these dairy-free?
   Substitute the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter.
4. Can I freeze them?
   Yes! Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 1 month. Thaw and glaze when ready to serve.
5. Can I add other flavors?
   Try a dash of maple extract or bourbon-free flavoring for a different twist.

Final Thoughts
These Butter Pecan Donuts are a cozy, nutty treat that feels like a warm hug. The rich glaze, soft donut base, and crunch of toasted pecans make them irresistible. Whether you’re serving them for brunch, dessert, or a weekday pick-me-up, they’re sure to be a hit.

Bake a batch, share with someone you love, and don’t forget to snap a pic before they disappear!

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 12 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Donut):
Calories: 290 | Protein: 4g | Carbohydrates: 34g | Fat: 15g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 170mg

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