Name: Vanilla Chai Doughnuts
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground ginger; 1/4 tsp ground cloves; 1/4 tsp ground cardamom; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 large egg

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Vanilla Chai Doughnuts are the perfect treat to elevate your morning coffee or afternoon snack. Their warm spices combined with the sweetness of vanilla create a deliciously aromatic experience that tempts the taste buds. These doughnuts are baked rather than fried, allowing you to enjoy a lighter version of this classic comfort food without sacrificing flavor. You’ll love how easy it is to create these delightful bites right at home!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 12 doughnuts
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 145
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 6g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Vanilla Chai Doughnuts

These Vanilla Chai Doughnuts shine not just for their warm, comforting flavors but also for their ease of preparation. They make a fantastic addition to brunch parties, simple gatherings, or even a cozy breakfast at home. Plus, they
can be enjoyed year-round, bringing joy and satisfaction with every bite. The delightful blend of spices not only gives a nod to traditional chai but also makes these doughnuts unique and memorable. Once you’ve tried them, they might just become a staple in your recipe repertoire!

How to Make Vanilla Chai Doughnuts

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a doughnut pan. Ensure each cavity is well-coated to prevent sticking when you remove the doughnuts later.

Step 2: Mixing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices: cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and cardamom. This will distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly throughout the doughnut batter.

Step 3: Cooking

In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and egg. Mix these wet ingredients until they are smooth. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can make your doughnuts tough.

Step 4: Finishing

Fill each doughnut cavity about 2/3 full with batter. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the doughnuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Ingredients:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp ground cardamom
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 large egg

How to Serve Vanilla Chai Doughnuts

These doughnuts can be enjoyed plain, but for an extra touch, consider glazing them with a simple vanilla icing or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Pair them with a hot cup of chai or coffee to enhance the flavors. They also make perfect gifts when packed in cute boxes!

How to Store Vanilla Chai Doughnuts

Store your vanilla chai doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing to maintain their texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Vanilla Chai Doughnuts

Ensure your buttermilk is at room temperature; this helps the batter mix well.
Do not overmix the batter; overmixing can lead to dense doughnuts.
Experiment with your spices! If you like it spicier, you can increase the amount of ginger or cinnamon.
You can replace the buttermilk with a non-dairy alternative like almond milk combined with a teaspoon of vinegar for a dairy-free version.

Delicious Variations

Chai Spice Glaze: Mix powdered sugar with a little milk and a pinch of chai spices to drizzle over the top.
Chocolate Chip Doughnuts: Fold in mini chocolate chips for an indulgent twist.
Maple Chai Doughnuts: Substitute maple syrup for granulated sugar in the batter for a sweet, earthy flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?
Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition, but it may alter the texture slightly.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a quick substitute by combining 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
How do I know when the doughnuts are done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of a doughnut; if it comes out clean, they are done.
Can I make these doughnuts vegan?
Yes, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) instead of the egg and use a dairy-free milk in place of buttermilk.
How do I make the doughnuts more flavorful?
Feel free to add a teaspoon of vanilla for an intensively flavored doughnut, or experiment with other spices such as nutmeg or allspice!

Conclusion

Baking Vanilla Chai Doughnuts is a joyous experience that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. They offer a wonderful blend of spices that dance on your palate while being simple enough for any home cook to master. Whether you’re serving them at a brunch gathering or enjoying one with your morning coffee, these doughnuts will surely impress. So gather your ingredients, start baking, and treat yourself to these scrumptious delights!