Name: Baked Banana Donuts with Dark Chocolate Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 large egg; 1/3 cup (67g) packed light or dark brown sugar; 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) melted butter, slightly cooled; 1/2 cup mashed banana (about 1 medium banana); 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 2 Tablespoons (30ml) buttermilk or whole milk; 1/2 cup (90g) dark chocolate chips (semi-sweet works too); 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter; 2 teaspoons light corn syrup; 2 teaspoons water

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 39 reviews

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the decadence of rich, melted chocolate, this Baked Banana Donuts with Dark Chocolate Glaze Recipe is going to steal your heart. These donuts are soft, moist, and just the right amount of spiced, while the dark chocolate glaze provides the perfect velvety finish that makes each bite absolutely irresistible. Whether you want a comforting breakfast, an afternoon snack, or an impressive dessert, this recipe is super approachable but yields bakery-quality donuts you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with thick, dark chocolate glaze at the bottom holds a plain light brown donut partly dipped in the chocolate, showing a shiny finish at the base. Around the bowl on crinkled parchment paper are five more donuts, four fully covered in glossy dark chocolate glaze and one without any topping. A silver spoon with some dark chocolate glaze on it lies on the parchment near the bowl. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients come together to create donuts that are flavorful and light, with a luscious glaze that melts in your mouth. Each component plays a key role in bringing harmony to this recipe, from the fragrant spices to the ripe bananas that add moisture and natural sweetness.

1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled): The base of your donut batter, providing structure and tenderness.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the donuts rise to a fluffy, airy texture.
1/4 teaspoon baking soda: Works with baking powder to ensure perfect lightness and a subtle tang.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors.
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, cozy spice notes that pair beautifully with banana.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg brings depth and complexity to the donuts.
1 large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
1/3 cup (67g) packed light or dark brown sugar: Lends a caramel-like sweetness that’s deep and satisfying.
1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) melted butter, slightly cooled: Keeps the donuts tender and adds buttery flavor.
1/2 cup mashed banana (about 1 medium banana): The star ingredient that makes these donuts moist and naturally sweet.
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its fragrant notes.
2 Tablespoons (30ml) buttermilk or whole milk: Adds subtle tang and helps achieve a tender crumb.
1/2 cup (90g) dark chocolate chips (semi-sweet works too): For the glossy dark chocolate glaze that’s pure decadence.
2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter: Combines into the glaze for smooth richness.
2 teaspoons light corn syrup: Adds shine and keeps the glaze silky.
2 teaspoons water: Balances the glaze consistency perfectly.

How to Make Baked Banana Donuts with Dark Chocolate Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C) and greasing your donut pan generously with non-stick spray. This ensures your donuts will come out cleanly without sticking, making the whole process smoother and more fun.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These dry ingredients create the flavor base and leavening that make your donuts rise and taste incredible.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the egg and brown sugar until smooth and creamy. Then, fold in the melted butter, mashed banana, vanilla extract, and buttermilk. This blend adds moisture, sweetness, and richness to your donut batter, making it irresistibly tender.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your donuts light and soft—the secret to that perfect texture lies here!

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a large resealable plastic bag with a corner snipped off, pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan. Fill each cavity about two-thirds to three-quarters full for perfectly shaped donuts. This step gives precision and helps avoid messiness.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake for 9 to 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the donuts cool in the pan for about two minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack over parchment paper or a baking sheet—this prevents any glaze dripping from creating a sticky situation.

Step 7: Prepare the Dark Chocolate Glaze

In a medium bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips, butter, light corn syrup, and water. Microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring after each, until the mixture is fully melted and smooth. This glossy glaze will perfectly coat your donuts, adding that luscious chocolate finish everyone loves.

Step 8: Glaze the Donuts

Dip the cooled donuts into the dark chocolate glaze just enough to cover the tops generously. Let the glaze set for a few minutes—then get ready to indulge!

How to Serve Baked Banana Donuts with Dark Chocolate Glaze Recipe

Two chocolate glazed donuts sit on a white plate with a soft yellow tone. One donut is whole, showing a smooth and shiny dark chocolate glaze covering its round shape. The other donut is broken in half, revealing a light brown, fluffy inside and a thick layer of the same dark chocolate glaze on top. Nearby, three slices of banana rest on the plate, adding a fresh, light cream color to the scene. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a pretty presentation, try adding a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts, or a dusting of flaky sea salt over the chocolate glaze. Fresh banana slices alongside the plate complement the flavors beautifully and add a freshness that balances sweetness.

Side Dishes

These donuts shine on their own but also pair surprisingly well with a cup of strong coffee or a creamy latte. For a brunch spread, add fresh berries or a tangy yogurt and honey bowl to elevate the experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn these treats into a bite-sized dessert by cutting the donuts in halves or quarters and arranging them on a platter with drizzles of additional warm chocolate sauce. Or serve them with scoops of vanilla ice cream for a warm-and-cold delight anyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’d like to enjoy your Baked Banana Donuts with Dark Chocolate Glaze Recipe later, store them covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days. Keep them sealed in an airtight container to maintain softness and freshness.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the donuts (without glaze) in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Then transfer to a freezer bag or container. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and glaze freshly for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm your donuts gently in a microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven to revive that just-baked feel. If reheating glazed donuts, do so briefly to soften but avoid melting the glaze too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen bananas work wonderfully; just thaw and mash them well before incorporating into the batter. They actually add extra moisture, making your donuts tender and flavorful.

Is it possible to make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be mindful some blends respond differently and may slightly change texture.

Can I substitute the dark chocolate chips with milk chocolate?

You certainly can. Milk chocolate will make the glaze sweeter and creamier, but dark chocolate balances the banana’s sweetness perfectly for a richer taste.

Why do these donuts need buttermilk or milk?

Buttermilk or whole milk adds moisture and a slight tang that enhances the flavor while contributing to a tender texture. You can use any milk you have on hand, but it makes a noticeable difference.

How do I know when the donuts are done baking?

The donuts should be lightly golden around the edges and firm to the touch. Inserting a toothpick that comes out clean or with just a few crumbs is the best way to check their doneness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about these Baked Banana Donuts with Dark Chocolate Glaze Recipe that makes them perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make, with wholesome ingredients and an indulgent chocolate finish that’s sure to impress your loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try them and experience how perfectly bananas and chocolate work together in this delightful baked treat!