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Golden, buttery, and bite-sized, these hot buttered mini donuts are the kind of treat that brings instant joy. Each donut is light and fluffy on the inside, crisp and golden on the outside, and drenched in melted butter that soaks into every nook and cranny. Whether you’re serving them warm at a party, making a cozy weekend brunch, or just indulging in a sweet late-night craving, these donuts are guaranteed to steal the show.

There’s something about the combination of soft dough and buttery finish that creates a nostalgic comfort food feeling. You don’t need a deep fryer or a fancy donut maker either—a mini muffin pan and your oven will do the trick. And the best part? They’re so quick to make that you might find yourself baking them on repeat.

Why You’ll Love This Hot Buttered Mini Donuts Recipe

These mini donuts are incredibly easy to whip up, making them perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous dessert ideas. The ingredients are pantry staples, the texture is heavenly, and the buttery glaze is totally addictive. Plus, they’re baked not fried, which means less mess and a bit lighter without compromising on flavor.

They’re also super customizable—you can dust them with cinnamon sugar, drizzle chocolate on top, or even fill them with jam. But honestly, the buttery version alone is enough to make you fall in love.

Can I Make These Without a Donut Pan?

Absolutely. While a mini donut pan gives you that classic ring shape, a mini muffin pan works just as well. You’ll get adorable donut bites instead of rings, and they’re just as delicious. If you’re really craving the look of a donut, you can use a piping bag to pipe the batter into circles on a parchment-lined baking sheet—just be sure they’re spaced and sized evenly.

Ingredients for the Hot Buttered Mini Donuts

These donuts are made with everyday ingredients, which means you probably have everything on hand already. Here are the stars of the show:

All-purpose flour
This is the base of your donut. It provides structure and helps create that light crumb texture.

Baking powder
Essential for giving these mini donuts a good rise and keeping them fluffy.

Sugar
A bit of sweetness in the batter and more on the outside if you choose to coat them.

Salt
Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.

Milk
Adds moisture and richness to the batter.

Egg
Helps bind everything together and gives a tender texture.

Vanilla extract
For that warm, bakery-style aroma and taste.

Butter (melted)
This is what sets these donuts apart—a generous amount of melted butter goes in the batter and more gets brushed on after baking.

How To Make the Hot Buttered Mini Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin or mini donut pan.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Stir in the Wet Ingredients

Add milk, egg, vanilla, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until the batter is smooth and lump-free.

Step 4: Fill the Pan

Spoon the batter into your prepared pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Butter and Serve

As soon as they come out of the oven, brush each mini donut generously with melted butter. Serve warm, and enjoy!

Serving and Storing These Buttery Donuts

These hot buttered mini donuts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm and soft. They feed about 6 to 8 people, depending on serving size and how many you sneak during baking.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, a quick 5–7 seconds in the microwave brings them back to life. If you plan to make them ahead, hold off on the final butter brushing until you’re ready to serve.

What to Serve With Hot Buttered Mini Donuts?

Hot Chocolate

A warm cup of thick, creamy hot cocoa pairs beautifully with buttery donuts.

Coffee

These donuts are made for dunking. Brew a strong cup and enjoy the contrast of bitter and sweet.

Fruit Salad

Add a fresh touch with a bowl of vibrant fruit salad. It balances the richness perfectly.

Yogurt Parfait

Layer yogurt, granola, and berries for a wholesome brunch side.

Maple Syrup Drizzle

A touch of maple syrup takes the flavor up a notch for those with a serious sweet tooth.

Whipped Cream

Dollop a little on the side for an indulgent dessert plate.

Caramel Sauce

Drizzle over the donuts or dip them in for a gooey delight.

Spiced Chai Latte

The warm spices of chai are a cozy pairing with these buttery bites.

Want More Dessert Ideas?

If you’re loving these hot buttered mini donuts, you’ll definitely want to check out more sweet treats on Mia Plates:

• Try the Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler for a nostalgic fruit dessert.
• Bake up Cherry-Topped Coconut Macaroons for a chewy tropical twist.
• Don’t miss the Ooey Gooey Bars if you crave a rich, indulgent bite.
• For something lighter, try the Air Fryer Pineapple as a tangy-sweet option.
• Or whip up the Leftover Candy Shortbread Bars to use up sweets creatively.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you dip them in cinnamon sugar? Try a glaze? Add a surprise filling?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

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