Name: Maple Glazed Mini Donuts
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons melted butter; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1–2 tablespoons milk or cream; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These mini donuts come together quickly with simple ingredients and no need for deep frying. The maple glaze adds a warm, comforting flavor that pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, their tender texture and sweet, sticky finish are sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Ground cinnamon (optional for added warmth)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Egg
Milk
Vanilla extract
Melted butter
Maple syrup (pure, for the best flavor)

For the glaze:

Powdered sugar
Maple syrup
Milk or cream
Vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a mini donut pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, milk, vanilla, melted butter, and maple syrup until well combined.
Add wet ingredients to dry and stir until just combined—do not overmix.
Spoon or pipe the batter into the mini donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until donuts spring back when lightly touched.
Let cool in the pan for 2–3 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
While donuts cool, prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Dip the top of each donut into the glaze and return to the rack to set. Repeat for a thicker glaze layer if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 24 mini donuts.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add-ins: Mix in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for texture.
Spiced: Add a dash of nutmeg or cloves for a fall-inspired flavor.
Maple bacon: Sprinkle crumbled cooked bacon over the glazed donuts for a sweet and savory twist.
Vegan: Use plant-based milk, egg substitute, and vegan butter.
Filled: Pipe a little maple cream or whipped filling into the centers after baking for a surprise inside.

Storage/Reheating

Store maple glazed mini donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 4 days.

To reheat, microwave for 10–15 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes. If refrigerated, allow them to come to room temperature or reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I fry these instead of baking?

This recipe is designed for baking, but you can use a fried donut base and still apply the maple glaze.

Do I need a mini donut pan?

Yes, to achieve the traditional shape and size. You can also use a mini muffin pan as an alternative.

Can I use pancake syrup instead of real maple syrup?

You can, but pure maple syrup offers a more authentic and rich flavor.

How do I prevent the glaze from running off?

Let the donuts cool completely before glazing, and allow excess glaze to drip off before setting.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, bake and glaze the donuts a few hours in advance. Store covered at room temperature until serving.

Can I freeze them?

Yes, freeze unglazed donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

What kind of milk works best?

Whole milk provides a rich texture, but you can use any milk or milk alternative.

Can I double the glaze for extra coverage?

Absolutely. A double batch of glaze is great for a thicker coating or dipping twice.

How do I know when the donuts are done?

They should be golden and spring back when touched lightly. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Are these donuts overly sweet?

They’re sweet but balanced with the warmth of maple and the slight saltiness of the glaze. You can adjust sugar levels to taste.

Conclusion

Maple Glazed Mini Donuts are a delightful treat that combines tender, cake-like texture with the rich flavor of real maple syrup. Easy to bake and even easier to eat, they’re perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself. Whether for a party platter, morning treat, or cozy dessert, these little donuts are sure to impress.