Biting into a no knead baked donut is like getting a hug from your oven. As a chef, I’ve rolled dough, kneaded endlessly, and deep fried more times than I can count but these? They’re a game changer. No kneading, no oil splatter, just warm, soft, golden donuts ready in under two hours.
“No knead. No fry. No fuss. Just golden, fluffy joy in every bite.” – @DonutDreamer
Why You’ll Fall in Love With These Donuts
If you’re looking for easy homemade donuts that don’t require a mixer or fryer, this recipe is for you. It’s one of those rare bakes that satisfies both cravings and convenience.
- No kneading required: Mix, rise, and bake it’s really that simple.
- Healthier than fried: Baked, not deep fried. No greasy fingers, just clean, sweet satisfaction.
- Soft and cakey: Melt in your mouth texture with a rich, buttery bite.
- Customizable: Glaze them, sugar coat them, or add your favorite toppings.
- Kid friendly: Perfect weekend bake with the family.
From Saturday morning brunch to weekday coffee breaks, these donuts have become my quick comfort go to. They never last long once they hit the cooling rack.
Step by Step Guide to Making Baked No Knead Donuts
Ingredients
- 3 ¾ cups (575g) of all purpose flour 🌾
- 2 tsp of instant dried yeast 🧁
- 1 tsp of salt 🧂
- ¾ cup (200ml) of warm milk 🥛
- ¾ cup (170g) of melted butter 🧈
- 4 eggs, at room temperature 🥚🥚🥚🥚
- ¼ cup (80g) of honey 🍯
- 1 tsp of vanilla extract 🌿
Directions
1: Mix the Dough
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt.
- Pour in the warm milk, melted butter, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract.
- Stir until the mixture forms a sticky, thick batter.
2: First Rise
- Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel.
- Let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Grease a donut pan generously with butter or non stick spray.
4: Fill the Donut Pan
- Scoop the risen dough into the donut cavities, filling each about ¾ full.
5: Bake
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
6: Cool and Decorate
- Let cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Top with glaze, sugar, cinnamon, or enjoy plain!
“These donuts are the real deal pillowy soft centers, golden edges, and all without touching a rolling pin.” – @BakedBlissBites
Tips From My Kitchen
How to Get the Perfect Rise and Texture
- Warm milk, not hot: Around 110°F is perfect to activate the yeast without killing it.
- Let the eggs reach room temp: Cold eggs can hinder yeast performance.
- Use a piping bag: Makes filling the donut cavities easier and cleaner.
Don’t have a donut pan? You can also pipe the dough into circles on a parchment lined sheet and bake. They won’t be perfect rings, but they’ll still taste amazing!
Best Toppings and Flavor Variations
These donuts are amazing plain, but if you want to dress them up go for it!
- Cinnamon Sugar: Brush warm donuts with butter and toss in cinnamon sugar.
- Glazed: Dip in a mix of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Chocolate Dipped: Melt chocolate chips and dunk the tops, then sprinkle with chopped nuts.
- Berry Drizzle: Mash berries with a bit of sugar and drizzle over cooled donuts.
Try these with a cup of coffee and our perfect pancakes or for a weekend spread with easy homemade crepes.
How These Donuts Compare to Traditional Fried Versions
| Type | Prep Time | Texture | Calories | Grease Factor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baked No Knead Donuts | 90 mins (including rise) | Soft, cakey | 290 | Low |
| Classic Fried Donuts | 2+ hours | Chewy, crispy edges | 350-400+ | High |
| Bombolini | 2.5 hours | Airy, deep fried | 400+ | High |
| Quick Skillet Donuts | 45 mins | Fried, crispy | 300-360 | Moderate |
“Baked donuts won’t give you a crunch but they will give you guilt free seconds.” – @OvenObsessed
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
How to Store and Freeze Like a Pro
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore softness.
- Freeze: Wrap individually in plastic wrap and store in freezer bags. Thaw at room temp.
- Pre bake plan: Make the dough the night before and refrigerate. Let it sit out for 30 minutes before baking.
Looking for more freezer friendly treats? Try our Nutella doughnuts or these light as air Japanese cheesecakes.
Perfect Pairings and Meal Ideas
Build a Baked Brunch Board
- These donuts as your centerpiece, fresh and warm.
- Egg cups or protein muffins for a savory balance.
- Mini cake slices for variety.
- Fruit skewers, yogurt parfaits, and flavored cream cheeses.
These donuts fit into any brunch plan, dessert tray, or snack table. No frying. No regrets.
What Makes These No Knead Donuts a Game Changer?
Skip the Kneading, Keep the Flavor
Traditional donut recipes call for a decent amount of elbow grease kneading, shaping, frying. But these no knead baked donuts offer the same fluffy, rich texture without all the effort or mess. For busy mornings or casual baking days, I always turn to this method.
- No stand mixer required: Just a mixing bowl and spoon will do.
- Perfect rise: The yeast works its magic during the hour long proof, giving these donuts a light, airy interior.
- Ideal for all bakers: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned chef, this recipe is nearly failproof.
Want more no fuss recipes like this one? Check out our quick 20 minute bread or the incredibly versatile crazy dough recipe that works for nearly everything.
“Why knead when you can mix, rise, and bake? These donuts redefine easy indulgence.” – @LazyBakerLife
The Science Behind the Softness
There’s a reason these donuts feel so pillowy inside they’re built with ingredients that naturally tenderize and trap moisture.
- Eggs: Add structure and help bind the batter while making it soft.
- Butter: Enriches the dough with flavor and tenderness.
- Honey: Natural sweetener that adds depth and helps lock in moisture.
Together with the yeast and flour, these ingredients create a silky, cake like crumb that’s impossibly soft when eaten warm. It’s what makes them different from a muffin or cupcake they’re still undeniably a donut.
Flavor Variations and Custom Mix Ins
Make Every Batch Unique
One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. Once you’ve mastered the base, you can start experimenting with different flavors, fillings, and mix ins. Here are a few ideas I’ve tested and loved:
- Maple and Pecan: Add a maple glaze and top with chopped toasted pecans.
- Lemon Blueberry: Fold fresh blueberries and lemon zest into the batter.
- Churro Style: After baking, brush with butter and roll in cinnamon sugar.
- Peanut Butter Swirl: Drop a spoonful of peanut butter into the center before baking and swirl it lightly.
- Chocolate Chip: Fold mini chocolate chips into the dough for melty goodness.
Still craving more sweet ideas? You’ll love our churro cheesecake and these dreamy donut style muffins.
“Your donut, your rules. Whether it’s fruity, nutty, or chocolatey this recipe is your playground.” – @CustomCravings
How to Glaze, Top, and Decorate
Finishing Touches That Wow
Decorating these baked donuts is my favorite part. Whether you’re hosting brunch, baking with kids, or prepping for a party, it’s the toppings that make them visually irresistible. Here are some of my go to finishers:
| Type | Ingredients | Method | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic Glaze | Powdered sugar, milk, vanilla | Dip warm donuts upside down | Sweet and shiny |
| Chocolate Ganache | Chocolate chips, heavy cream | Melt and dip | Rich and smooth |
| Cinnamon Sugar | Granulated sugar, cinnamon, butter | Brush with butter, toss in mix | Warm and spiced |
| Berry Glaze | Fresh berries, powdered sugar | Mash berries and mix with sugar | Fruity and tart |
| Sprinkles and Frosting | Store bought or homemade frosting, sprinkles | Frost and top when cool | Fun and festive |
And yes these work just as well when dipped or drizzled. You can even mix up the toppings and make a full donut bar. I often do this for birthdays or weekend brunches when everyone wants something a little different.
Perfect Pairings for Your Donut Spread
Build a Balanced (and Beautiful) Breakfast Table
Baked donuts are stars on their own, but they shine even brighter when surrounded by complementary dishes. Here’s how I like to serve them:
- With savory contrast: Pair with eggs, bacon, or these quiche muffins.
- Alongside fruit: Add berries, melon, or pineapple slices to cut the richness.
- With drinks: Serve with flavored lattes, chai tea, or infused water for a gourmet touch.
- With more carbs (why not?): Offer mini muffins, banana bread, or cinnamon rolls.
Want to create the ultimate weekend brunch board? Combine these donuts with our pineapple quick bread and a side of no sugar energy bites for something everyone will love.
“Every donut deserves a supporting cast build a brunch that makes it the headliner.” – @BrunchCurator
Storage + Leftover Ideas That Don’t Disappoint
Not that you’ll have many leftovers (trust me), but if you do:
- Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches: Slice, fill with vanilla ice cream, freeze until firm.
- Donut French Toast: Dip in egg milk mixture and pan fry like classic French toast.
- Donut Trifle: Cut into cubes and layer with whipped cream and fruit for an easy dessert.
These baked donuts may be simple, but they’re packed with potential.
“Don’t just store your donuts elevate them. Leftovers never looked this good.” – @SweetLeftoversClub
Calories and Nutrition (Per Donut – Based on 12 Servings)
- Calories: 290
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 14g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 180mg
FAQs About No Knead Baked Donuts
Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?
Yes! Pipe them into rings on a parchment lined baking tray or make donut muffins using a cupcake tray.
How do I know when they’re done?
The tops should be golden and spring back when touched. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.
Can I make these gluten free?
You can try a 1:1 gluten free baking flour, though the texture may vary slightly.
What if I don’t have honey?
Maple syrup or agave syrup works as a substitute, but honey gives the best balance of sweetness and structure.
Can I reduce the butter?
Yes, but the texture will be less rich. You can swap part of it with Greek yogurt or applesauce.