Name: Delicious Matcha Baked Doughnuts: A Festive Green Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1/3 cup melted coconut oil (substitute with unsalted butter if desired); 1/2 cup cane sugar (or use brown sugar for deeper flavor); 1 large egg (or use a flax egg for vegan alternative); 1 teaspoon baking powder (ensure it's fresh); 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (essential for rising); 2 tablespoons matcha powder (recommend Aiya Authentic Japanese Matcha); a pinch nutmeg (or substitute with cinnamon); 1/4 teaspoon sea salt (vital for flavor balance); 1 teaspoon vanilla (use pure extract for maximum impact); 1 cup all-purpose flour (swapping may affect texture); 1/2 cup almond milk (any plant-based milk can work); 1 cup powdered sugar (can be mixed with matcha); 1 tablespoon matcha powder (for enhancing color and flavor)

As I flipped through my recipe collection, I stumbled upon a vibrant gem that instantly sparked joy: Matcha Baked Doughnuts. With their light and fluffy texture, these delightful treats are not only a feast for the eyes with their stunning green hue, but they’re also a healthier alternative to the usual fried doughnuts. With St. Patrick’s Day around the corner, this recipe is the perfect way to add a festive twist to your celebrations, all while indulging guilt-free. Packed with antioxidants from matcha green tea, they make you feel good inside and out—definitely a crowd-pleaser for anyone tired of fast food. Ready to whip up a batch? You’ll love the sweet, earthy flavor as much as the charming decorating options! What will you choose—glazed, cane sugar, or powdered sugar? Let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure!

Why Try Matcha Baked Doughnuts?

Unique Flavor: Matcha brings an earthy sweetness that’s unlike any traditional doughnut.

Festive Touch: Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day, these doughnuts boast a vibrant green hue that will impress your guests.

Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these treats are lower in fat yet high in antioxidants—making them a guilt-free indulgence!

Versatile Toppings: Customize with three fun decorating options, from glossy glazes to crunchy sugar coatings, to suit every palate.

Simple Steps: Ease of preparation means you’ll have delicious doughnuts ready in no time, whether for a special occasion or a casual snack.

Elevate your brunch with these delightful doughnuts, and if you’re looking for more ways to incorporate matcha, check out my delicious Baked Feta Pasta for another scrumptious recipe!

Matcha Baked Doughnuts Ingredients

For the Doughnuts

Melted Coconut Oil – Adds moisture and richness; you can substitute it with unsalted butter if desired.
Cane Sugar – Provides the right sweetness and aids in browning; try brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Large Egg – Binds ingredients together for structure; use a flax egg for a vegan alternative.
Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps achieve a light texture; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
Baking Soda – Works alongside baking powder for rising and browning; don’t skip this essential ingredient.
Matcha Powder – The star of the show, adding flavor and color while also providing antioxidants; I recommend Aiya Authentic Japanese Matcha for superior taste.
Nutmeg – Provides a warm, spicy note; feel free to replace it with cinnamon if preferred.
Sea Salt – Enhances the overall flavor balance; it’s vital in baking to counteract sweetness.
Vanilla – Brings a sweet aroma and flavor; choose pure vanilla extract for maximum impact.
All-Purpose Flour – The foundational ingredient providing structure; swapping for alternative flours may affect texture.
Almond Milk – Keeps the doughnuts moist without dairy; any plant-based milk can work here as a substitute.

For the Glaze or Dusting

Powdered Sugar – For a sweet finish in the glaze; use it alone or mixed with matcha for a beautiful topping.
Matcha Powder – Use this again to complement your favorite decorating style; it enhances both color and flavor in the glaze or dusting.

Indulging in Matcha Baked Doughnuts is not only about great taste but also savoring a touch of festivity and health. Enjoy creating these delightful treats!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Matcha Baked Doughnuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). While it warms up, grab a 6-hole doughnut pan and lightly grease it with a bit of coconut oil or cooking spray. This ensures that your Matcha Baked Doughnuts slide out smoothly after baking. Keep an eye on the temperature while you prepare the batter to optimize baking time.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1/3 cup of melted coconut oil and 1/2 cup of cane sugar. Whisk them together until well incorporated, which should take about 1 minute. Next, crack in 1 large egg and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix everything thoroughly until it’s a smooth, glossy mixture, signaling that your base is ready for the dry ingredients.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 tablespoons of matcha powder, a pinch of nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Ensure there are no lumps, as this will affect the texture of your Matcha Baked Doughnuts. Slowly incorporate this mixture into the wet ingredients for a uniform batter.

Step 4: Add Flour and Milk
Gradually add 1 cup of all-purpose flour and 1/2 cup of almond milk into the batter. Start by adding half of the flour, mixing gently, then pour in half of the almond milk before repeating with the remaining ingredients. Continue mixing just until combined—overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts. The batter should be thick but smooth, ready for the pan.

Step 5: Fill the Doughnut Pan
Using a spoon, carefully fill each section of your prepared doughnut pan with the thick batter. Fill each cavity about two-thirds full to allow space for rising during baking. Smooth the tops with the back of the spoon for a beautiful finish. This is where you create your delightful Matcha Baked Doughnuts, so ensure an even distribution.

Step 6: Bake the Doughnuts
Place the doughnut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they spring back lightly to the touch and have a slight golden hue on the edges. After baking, allow them to cool in the pan for about 5 to 10 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Decorations
Choose your decorating option for the Matcha Baked Doughnuts. For a glaze, mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon of matcha and just enough almond milk to achieve a smooth, drippable consistency. Alternatively, you can mix cane sugar with matcha for a crunchy coating. Prepare these decorations while the doughnuts cool so they’re fresh and ready to go.

Step 8: Decorate Your Doughnuts
Once the doughnuts are cool, decide how to adorn them. For a glaze, dip each doughnut into your prepared mixture and let any excess drip off. For a sugar coating, first dip them in melted coconut oil, then roll them in the matcha cane sugar or matcha powdered sugar until fully coated. Enjoy the festive flair of your homemade Matcha Baked Doughnuts!

What to Serve with Matcha Baked Doughnuts?

Pair these delightful treats with flavors and textures that enhance their unique sweetness, creating a well-rounded meal or snack experience.

Creamy Almond Butter: Spread this rich and nutty topping on your doughnuts for a protein boost and added depth of flavor.
Fresh Berries: Their juicy sweetness and bright acidity beautifully contrast the earthiness of matcha, adding a refreshing element. Enjoy them on the side or as a topping!
Matcha Latte: Sip on a smooth and creamy matcha latte, which perfectly complements the doughnuts while keeping the mood festive. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra warmth.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer tangy Greek yogurt with honey and granola for a satisfying crunch, balancing the softness of the doughnuts while enhancing your breakfast spread.
Coconut Whipped Cream: Fluffy, light, and subtly sweet, this alternative topping provides an indulgent finish that pairs perfectly with the doughnuts.
Chocolate Drizzle: A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate can elevate your matcha baked doughnuts, adding a touch of richness that is pure bliss.

Matcha Baked Doughnuts Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delightful doughnuts with these fun ideas!

Dairy-Free: Substitute almond milk with any other plant-based milk like oat or coconut for a creamier texture.
Flour Alternatives: Swap all-purpose flour for whole wheat or gluten-free flour; each option adds a unique twist to the doughnut.
Sweetness Levels: Try using coconut sugar instead of cane sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness.
Flavor Boost: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for added texture and flavor bursts.
Different Matcha: Experiment with flavored matcha powders, like vanilla or chocolate, to give your doughnuts an exciting twist.
Health Kick: Incorporate chia seeds or flaxseeds into the batter for a nutritional boost and a delightful crunch.
Fruity Addition: Fold in some fresh blueberries or raspberries into the batter, giving a burst of fruity goodness with every bite.
Festive Finishes: Top your doughnuts with gold sprinkles or coconut flakes to elevate their presentation for special occasions.

And for more scrumptious ideas, don’t forget to check out my lovely Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti Casserole for a cozy meal, or whip up a batch of Thai Baked Chicken for dinner. Enjoy the baking adventure!

Expert Tips for Matcha Baked Doughnuts

Choose Quality Matcha: The flavor and vibrant color of your doughnuts greatly depend on the matcha used; opt for high-quality matcha for the best results.
Don’t Overmix: Ensure your batter is thick but well-combined. Overmixing can lead to tough doughnuts rather than the light texture you desire.
Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary in temperature accuracy; using an oven thermometer can help ensure your matcha baked doughnuts bake evenly and rise perfectly.
Cool Properly: Allow your doughnuts to cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial for maintaining their airy texture and preventing sogginess.
Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to modify the mix! Try adding chocolate chips or citrus zest for a unique twist on your matcha baked doughnuts.

How to Store and Freeze Matcha Baked Doughnuts

Room Temperature: Keep leftover matcha baked doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and texture.

Fridge: If you have extra doughnuts, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The cooler temperature may slightly alter their texture, making them less fluffy.

Freezer: For longer storage, individually wrap each doughnut in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours. For a warm treat, briefly microwave each doughnut for about 10-15 seconds before serving.

Make Ahead Options

These Matcha Baked Doughnuts are ideal for meal prep aficionados! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately and storing them in the fridge. Just remember to keep the batter well covered to prevent drying out. You can also bake the doughnuts, let them cool completely, and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes for that fresh-baked taste. This way, you’ll enjoy delicious Matcha Baked Doughnuts any day of the week with minimal effort!

Matcha Baked Doughnuts Recipe FAQs

What type of matcha powder is best to use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and vibrant color, I highly recommend using Aiya Authentic Japanese Matcha Powder. It’s premium quality and adds that rich, earthy taste that will enhance your baked doughnuts beautifully.

How should I store my Matcha Baked Doughnuts?
Store your leftover matcha baked doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’re looking to keep them fresh for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days, though the texture may become slightly denser.

Can I freeze Matcha Baked Doughnuts?
Yes, you can! To freeze your doughnuts, individually wrap each one in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature, and you can microwave them for about 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.

What if my doughnut batter seems too runny?
No worries! If your batter feels too runny, it could be that you’ve added too much almond milk, or it needs a touch more flour. Try adding a tablespoon of flour at a time until you achieve a thick but smooth consistency. This will help ensure your matcha baked doughnuts have that light, fluffy texture you’re aiming for!

Can I substitute ingredients for dietary reasons?
Definitely! You can substitute melted coconut oil with unsalted butter if you’re not avoiding dairy. For a vegan option, replace the large egg with a flax egg (one tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with three tablespoons of water and left to sit until it becomes gel-like). Almond milk can be swapped for any plant-based milk you prefer, such as oat or soy milk.

Are these doughnuts safe for pets?
It’s best to keep these doughnuts away from pets. Certain ingredients, like cane sugar and matcha, may not be safe for animals, particularly in larger quantities. Stick to giving them their pet-safe treats!