Healthy Butternut Squash Donuts Quick Easy Recipe

It’s officially pumpkin spice season, but let’s be honest – sometimes you crave something a little different, something that celebrates all the cozy flavors of fall without being quite so…predictable. That’s where these healthy butternut squash donuts come in. Forget the overly sweet, deep-fried versions. These are baked, packed with nutrients, and taste absolutely incredible. I’ve tested this recipe over a dozen times, tweaking the ingredients and baking times to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and fluffy texture. Trust me, even the pickiest eaters in your family will devour these! My grandmother, a whiz in the kitchen, taught me the importance of using seasonal produce to create memorable and nutritious dishes. This recipe pays homage to her philosophy. And, let’s face it, with everyone trying to incorporate more veggies into their diet, these donuts are a sneaky (and delicious) way to do just that.

Why Butternut Squash Donuts Are a Must Try This Fall

Beyond Pumpkin Spice: Embracing the Versatility of Butternut Squash

Pumpkin gets all the glory this time of year, but butternut squash is a nutritional powerhouse with a subtly sweet flavor that’s perfect for baking. It’s loaded with Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and fiber, making these donuts a guilt-free indulgence. Plus, its naturally vibrant orange color adds a beautiful hue to your baked goods.

I personally love butternut squash because it’s incredibly versatile. You can roast it, puree it, add it to soups, or, as you’ll see in this recipe, transform it into delicious and healthy donuts. The possibilities are endless!

The Healthier Donut: Baking vs. Frying

One of the biggest advantages of this recipe is that these donuts are baked, not fried. This significantly reduces the fat content and makes them a much healthier alternative to traditional donuts. You still get that satisfying donut texture, but without the extra calories and grease.

The first time I tried making baked donuts, they turned out dense and dry. The key is to use the right combination of ingredients and to avoid over-baking. I’ll share all my secrets in the recipe below.

Gathering Your Ingredients

The Star of the Show: Butternut Squash Prep

You’ll need about 1 ½ cups of cooked butternut squash puree for this recipe. You can either buy pre-made puree (look for unsweetened versions) or roast your own. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the squash and is my preferred method. To roast, simply halve a butternut squash, scoop out the seeds, drizzle with olive oil, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Let it cool slightly before scooping out the flesh and pureeing it in a food processor or blender.

A helpful tip: Roasting the squash a day ahead will save you time on the day you plan to bake the donuts.

Key Ingredients for Flavor and Texture

Here’s a list of the other essential ingredients:

• All-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
• Baking powder and baking soda (for leavening)
• Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves (the perfect fall blend!)
• Brown sugar (for sweetness and moisture)
• Eggs (to bind the ingredients)
• Melted coconut oil (or other oil)
• Vanilla extract (for added flavor)
• Milk (or non-dairy alternative)

I’ve found that using a combination of baking powder and baking soda gives these donuts the perfect rise and light, airy texture. Don’t skip either one!

Step by Step Baking Instructions

Mixing the Batter: Achieving the Right Consistency

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices. In a separate bowl, combine the butternut squash puree, brown sugar, eggs, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and milk. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough donuts.

The batter should be thick but pourable. If it seems too thick, add a tablespoon or two more milk until you reach the desired consistency.

Filling the Donut Pan: Tips for Perfect Shapes

Grease a donut pan (or two, depending on the size) thoroughly. You can use cooking spray or melted coconut oil. Fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full. I find that using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a corner snipped off makes this process much easier and less messy.

Don’t overfill the donut cavities, as the batter will rise during baking and could overflow.

Baking and Cooling Your Donuts

Baking Time and Temperature: The Secret to Fluffy Donuts

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

The key to preventing dry donuts is to avoid over-baking. Start checking for doneness around 12 minutes.

Cooling and Removing from the Pan

Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent them from sticking and breaking.

If the donuts are sticking, try gently loosening them with a thin spatula.

Glazing and Garnishing for the Perfect Finish

The Classic Cinnamon Glaze: A Simple and Delicious Option

For a classic cinnamon glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (or non-dairy alternative), vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth. Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze, letting the excess drip off.

You can adjust the consistency of the glaze by adding more milk or powdered sugar as needed.

Variations and Adaptations to Personalize Your Donuts

Chocolate Glaze: For the Chocoholics

If you’re a chocolate lover, try a chocolate glaze! Melt chocolate chips with a little bit of coconut oil or milk, then dip the cooled donuts into the melted chocolate.

For a richer flavor, use dark chocolate.

Maple Glaze: Embracing Fall Flavors

For a maple glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk (or non-dairy alternative), and vanilla extract until smooth.

Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor.

Nutty Toppings: Adding Texture and Flavor

Sprinkle chopped nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, or almonds, over the glazed donuts for added texture and flavor.

Toasted nuts add an extra layer of deliciousness.

Serving and Storing Your Butternut Squash Donuts

Serving Suggestions: Warm or Cold, They’re Delicious!

These donuts are delicious served warm or cold. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

I love serving these donuts at fall gatherings and potlucks. They’re always a hit!

Storage Tips: Keeping Your Donuts Fresh

Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Let them thaw completely before serving.

To prevent the donuts from sticking together, place a sheet of parchment paper between layers when storing.

Expert Tips for Perfect Butternut Squash Donuts

• Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in tough donuts. Mix until just combined.
• Use a donut pan: A donut pan is essential for achieving the classic donut shape.
• Grease the donut pan thoroughly: This will prevent the donuts from sticking.
• Don’t overbake the donuts: Overbaking can result in dry donuts.
• Let the donuts cool completely before glazing: This will prevent the glaze from melting.
• Get creative with toppings: Add your favorite nuts, sprinkles, or chocolate shavings.

FAQ: Your Butternut Squash Donut Questions Answered

Can I use canned pumpkin puree instead of butternut squash puree?

While you can substitute canned pumpkin puree, the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Butternut squash has a milder, sweeter flavor and a smoother texture than pumpkin. If you do use pumpkin puree, you may want to reduce the amount of spice slightly.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best results.

Can I make these donuts vegan?

Yes! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg), use a non-dairy milk alternative, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly (some brands use bone char in the refining process).

How do I prevent my donuts from sticking to the pan?

The key is to grease the donut pan thoroughly. You can use cooking spray or melted coconut oil. Also, let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes! Let the donuts cool completely before freezing. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let them thaw completely before serving.

Why are my donuts dry?

Dry donuts are usually the result of overbaking. Make sure to check for doneness around 12 minutes and avoid overbaking. Also, ensure you’re using enough liquid in the batter.

These healthy butternut squash donuts are more than just a recipe; they’re a celebration of fall flavors and a guilt-free way to indulge your sweet tooth. I encourage you to try this recipe and put your own spin on it – experiment with different glazes, toppings, and spices to create your perfect donut. Don’t forget to share your creations with me on social media using #HealthyButternutSquashDonuts! And if you’re looking for more delicious and healthy fall recipes, you should try my Pumpkin Spice Energy Bites! Happy baking!

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