Cornbread donuts are a fun and delicious twist on the classic cornbread recipe. These sweet, golden donuts have the same comforting, crumbly texture of cornbread, but in a portable, bite-sized donut form.
They’re perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even as a dessert. The addition of cornmeal gives them a unique flavor and texture that’s both hearty and sweet. If you’re a fan of cornbread, you’re going to love this recipe!
What Are Cornbread Donuts?
Cornbread donuts combine the best features of cornbread and donuts. They’re soft, slightly crumbly, and have a bit of a sweet crunch, making them different from traditional donuts.
The cornbread base is sweetened just enough, and a little cornmeal gives them a great texture. When they’re fried or baked, they form a deliciously golden crust. You can even add a glaze or cinnamon sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness!
Ingredients for Cornbread Donuts
For the Donuts:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup milk (buttermilk works best)
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Cinnamon Sugar Coating (optional):
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How to Make Cornbread Donuts
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Donut Pan
If you’re baking the donuts, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray or lightly butter it to prevent the donuts from sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir them together until everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter should be thick and a little lumpy.
Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each donut mold about 2/3 of the way full. If you don’t have a donut pan, you can also use a muffin tin to make cornbread muffins, or even shape the batter into donuts by hand.
Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the donuts for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze or Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the donuts are baking, you can make the glaze or cinnamon sugar coating.
- For the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- For the cinnamon sugar coating: In a separate bowl, combine the sugar and cinnamon.
Step 8: Cool and Coat the Donuts
Once the donuts are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes. Afterward, turn the donuts out onto a cooling rack.
- If you’re using the glaze, dip the tops of the donuts into the glaze while they’re still warm, then place them back on the cooling rack to let the glaze set.
- If you prefer the cinnamon sugar coating, roll the warm donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Once the glaze has set or the cinnamon sugar coating has adhered, your cornbread donuts are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture. They’re perfect with a cup of coffee or tea.
Cornbread donuts are a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Whether baked or fried, they are perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a special brunch, a sweet snack, or a treat with your morning coffee.
With their sweet, cornmeal-rich flavor and tender texture, these donuts are sure to become a favorite. Try them with a glaze, cinnamon sugar, or just as they are—the possibilities are endless!
FAQs
Can I fry cornbread donuts instead of baking them?
Yes, you can fry the donuts in hot oil for a crispy texture. Be sure to fry them until golden brown and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Can I use a muffin tin instead of a donut pan?
Yes, if you don’t have a donut pan, you can make cornbread muffins using a muffin tin. Simply spoon the batter into the cups and bake them as usual.
Can I make these cornbread donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake the donuts fresh when you’re ready to serve them.
Can I freeze cornbread donuts?
Yes, you can freeze the donuts after they have cooled. Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, just pop them in the oven for a few minutes.
What can I use instead of buttermilk?
You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.