My parents got me a donut pan for my birthday. They also got me a heavier kettlebell. Good combo parental units.

I have been wanting a donut pan for awhile. Like I would remind my mom that I wanted a donut pan for my birthday every time I called her (which is almost daily). My parents tell me that they are sure the donut pan will end up on our next garage sale. Like any good daughter, I aim to prove them wrong.

This past Sunday I whipped up some baked donuts. They didn’t disappoint.

Keep in mind that baked donuts are baked. Baked means that they will not taste nearly as good as their fried cousins. They are more of a cake donut. I, personally, am not picky when it comes to donuts. If it’s sugar in a ring form, I’ll probably love it.

Did I mention that I’m trying to eat better this week. Mmm, donuts. It’s okay. They are baked.

I have made two donut recipes. The following is my favorite.

Spiced Cake Donuts

2 cups All-purpose flour
3/4 cup white sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp salt
3/4 cup milk
2 eggs, beaten
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp shortening

Preheat oven to 325. Lightly grease the oven pan.

In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking power, nutmeg, cinnamon and salt. Stir in milk, eggs, vanilla and shortening. Beat together until well blended.

Fill each donut cup approximately 3/4 full. I used the Wilton Dessert Decorator. I’m still a messy donut maker but the decorator did make filling the pan easier.

Bake 8-10 minutes or until donuts spring back when touched.

Allow to cool slightly before removing from the pan.

Now to choose your topping.

Chocolate Glaze

1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips
1 Tbs. melted butter
1 tbsp corn syrup
1 tsp, hot water

In medium bowl, microwave chocolate chips, butter and corn syrup on 50% power for 1 minute. Stir frequently until completely melted. Stir in hot water until the glaze is thick and smooth (~1 tsp).

Glazed