Baked Carrot Cake Donuts

Super soft and moist, these baked carrot cake donuts are a delicious twist on the traditional carrot cake, perfectly spiced and packed with rich carrot flavor. Each donut is generously topped with a tangy but sweet cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of toasted coconut that adds a complementary flavor that’s hard to resist! 

Ever since I shared this recipe back in 2018, this carrot cake donut recipe has become a family favorite. They’re perfect for brunches, baby showers, Easter celebrations, birthdays, or just a treat for the weekend that the kids can help with. The best part is how quick and easy they are to make. In less than an hour, you can have a batch ready to enjoy!

If you love these carrot cake donuts, make sure to check out my Best Ever Carrot Cake, Raw Carrot Cake recipe, and Vegan Carrot Cake!

Baked Carrot Cake Donuts

While traditional donuts are deep fried, this recipe uses the oven to make donuts that taste just as good if not better! Baked donuts are lighter because they absorb less oil, making them a healthier option without losing taste. This method is also safer and less messy because there is no need to use or clean up hot oil. Plus, baking is a great way to make sure each donut cooks evenly, making it a smarter choice.

Ingredient Notes

• Finely Grated Carrots – Grate the carrots yourself to make sure they are moist and fine, which is crucial for adding moisture and texture to the donuts; avoid pre-shredded carrots, as they are often dry and too coarse for this recipe.
• Oil – Utilizing oil instead of butter results in donuts that are moist and tender, with any mild-flavored oil like canola, vegetable, sunflower, or corn.
• Greek Yogurt – Incorporating Greek yogurt contributes additional moisture to the donuts, with full-fat recommended for optimal richness; it can be substituted with sour cream if preferred.
• All-purpose Flour – Serves as the foundation of the donut, providing structure.
• Leavening Agents (baking powder, baking soda) – These ingredients are essential for the donuts to rise, creating a fluffy and soft texture.
• Spices (salt, ground ginger, cinnamon) – Add a warm spiced flavor profile of carrot cake, while salt enhances and balances the flavor of all ingredients. 
• Sugar – Adds sweetness to the donuts, balancing the spices and the tanginess of the cream cheese frosting.
• Egg – Acts as a binder in the batter, making sure the ingredients are well combined.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds a subtle warmth that pairs well with the other flavors. 
• Cream Cheese Frosting (cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar) – This creamy, tangy frosting tops the donuts, adding a rich and smooth layer that pairs well with the spiced donut base.
• Optional Toppings (toasted coconut flakes, chopped nuts, raisins) – Though optional, these add an additional element of texture and flavor and can easily be customized.

Equipment Needed

• Box Grater or Food Processor
• Hand Mixer
• Donut Pans
• Cooling Rack
• Offset Spatula

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare for baking: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease donut pans thoroughly. Set aside. 

Combine dry ingredients: Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices to a large mixing bowl. Whisk to fully combine.

Combine wet ingredients: To a separate bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until a pale mixture is formed. Mix in oil, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Mix the donut batter: Add half of the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Stir in the grated carrots. Add the remaining flour and mix until just combined without overworking. 

Fill pan: Spoon the batter into the greased donut pans evenly.

Bake and cool: Bake for 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before inverting them onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

Make the cream cheese frosting: Add the butter and cream cheese to a mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer to mix on high speed for 2-3 minutes. Gently add the powdered sugar and mix until the frosting is light and fluffy. 

Frost the donuts: Once the donuts are completely cooled, use an offset spatula to frost the donuts with cream cheese frosting. Decorate with toasted coconut, chopped nuts, or your favorite toppings. Enjoy! 

Flavor Variations and Ingredient Substitutions

• Swap the toasted coconut topping with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.
• Add a teaspoon of orange zest to the batter for a citrusy twist that complements the carrot flavor.
• For a chocolatey variation, mix a tablespoon of cocoa powder into the cream cheese frosting.
• Replace all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Substitute the sugar with an equal amount of coconut sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.

Add-ins

• To change up the flavor and texture of the donuts, add ⅓-1 cup of your favorite add-ins! 
• Chopped walnuts
• Pecans
• Raisins
• Shredded coconut
• Dried cranberries
• Chopped pineapple
• White chocolate chips
• Crystalized ginger

Storing and Freezing

Storing: Any leftover donuts can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted donuts by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.

Frequently Asked Questions