Banana Doughnuts

Banana Doughnuts Recipe from USA - Ingredients and Directions

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Banana Doughnuts are a delightful twist on the classic doughnut, incorporating the sweet and comforting flavor of bananas into a soft, fluffy pastry. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these doughnuts offer a unique taste that combines the traditional doughnut texture with the tropical essence of bananas. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to creating these delicious treats at home, ensuring a perfect result that can be enjoyed by everyone.

History

The concept of doughnuts dates back to the early 19th century in America, but the addition of bananas to create Banana Doughnuts is a more recent innovation. This recipe combines the traditional method of making doughnuts with the popular practice of incorporating fruit flavors into baked goods. The result is a modern twist on a classic, offering a new and exciting flavor profile that has quickly become a favorite among many.

Ingredients

5 cups all-purpose flour
3 tsp baking powder
1 tsp soda
2 tsp salt
1 tsp nutmeg
0.25 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1.5 tsp vanilla
3 eggs, well beaten
0.75 cup mashed bananas
0.5 cup buttermilk
0.5 cup flour for rolling
deep oil for frying

How to prepare

Sift the flour and then measure it. Resift the flour three times with baking powder, soda, salt, and nutmeg.
Cream the shortening and then blend in the sugar.
Add vanilla and eggs, and beat until light and fluffy.
Add the combined bananas and buttermilk, and stir until well mixed.
Add the flour mixture in four portions, stirring thoroughly after each addition.
Chill the dough before rolling.
Remove 0.25 of the dough from the refrigerator at a time, then knead lightly four or five times and roll it to a thickness of 0.38 inches. Cut the dough with a floured 2.5-inch doughnut cutter.
Fry the dough in deep oil heated to 375°F (191°C) until golden brown. Lift it out and drain it on absorbent paper.

Variations

Consider adding chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist, or top the doughnuts with a maple glaze for an extra layer of flavor. For a healthier version, try baking the doughnuts instead of frying.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best Banana Doughnuts, consider the following tips:

- Make sure the bananas are ripe for a sweeter, more pronounced banana flavor.

- Chill the dough as recommended to make rolling and cutting easier.

- Do not overcrowd the frying oil to maintain a consistent temperature for even cooking.

- Adjust the frying time based on the size of your doughnuts to avoid under or overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Banana Doughnuts warm for the best flavor and texture. They pair wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or snack. For an extra treat, dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze.

Cooking Techniques

Deep frying is the traditional method for cooking doughnuts, providing them with their characteristic crispy exterior and soft interior. For those looking to avoid frying, baking is a viable alternative, though the texture will differ.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, substitute the buttermilk with a mixture of almond milk and lemon juice. If shortening is unavailable, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute, though it may slightly alter the flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator overnight, tightly covered. This not only saves time but can also enhance the flavor and texture of the doughnuts.

Presentation Ideas

For an attractive presentation, serve the doughnuts on a platter, garnished with banana slices and a dusting of powdered sugar. A drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce can add an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Banana Doughnuts pair beautifully with coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk. For a dessert pairing, consider a scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream on the side.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each Banana Doughnut contains approximately 300 calories. The calories come from a combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, making these doughnuts a high-energy snack or dessert.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Banana Doughnuts contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary sources of carbohydrates in this recipe are the all-purpose flour and sugar, providing energy for the body.

Fats

These doughnuts contain about 10 grams of fat per serving, mainly from the shortening and the deep frying process. Using a high-quality oil for frying can help ensure the fats are as healthy as possible.

Proteins

Banana Doughnuts offer around 5 grams of protein per serving. The protein comes from the eggs and the small amount present in the flour, contributing to the doughnut's structure and texture.

Vitamins and minerals

Bananas add a nutritional boost to these doughnuts, providing essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients support overall health, including heart health and immune function.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from wheat flour), eggs, and dairy (buttermilk). Those with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should exercise caution.

Summary

Banana Doughnuts are a delicious treat that provides energy primarily through carbohydrates and fats, with a moderate amount of protein. They also offer nutritional benefits from the bananas, including vitamins and minerals. However, they are calorie-dense and contain common allergens.

Summary

Banana Doughnuts are a delightful and flavorful twist on traditional doughnuts, incorporating the sweet taste of bananas into a beloved treat. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating these delicious doughnuts at home, complete with tips for success and nutritional information. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast, snack, or dessert, Banana Doughnuts are sure to be a hit with all who try them.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Banana Doughnuts. It was a sunny Sunday morning, and I was flipping through an old and worn cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the yellowed pages, my eyes landed on a simple yet intriguing recipe for these delectable treats.

The recipe called for ripe bananas, flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and a touch of cinnamon. The combination of ingredients seemed so unique and delicious that I knew I had to give it a try. I remember rushing to the kitchen, eager to start baking and eager to see if these Banana Doughnuts would turn out as scrumptious as they sounded.

I gathered all the ingredients, set out my mixing bowls, and preheated my oven. As I mashed the ripe bananas and mixed them with the flour, sugar, and spices, a wonderful aroma filled the kitchen. The sweet scent of bananas and cinnamon wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

Once the dough was ready, I shaped it into small doughnut rounds and placed them on a baking sheet. I popped them in the oven and eagerly waited for them to bake to golden perfection. As they rose and turned a beautiful shade of brown, I could hardly contain my excitement.

Finally, the timer dinged, and I carefully removed the Banana Doughnuts from the oven. The warm, fluffy treats looked absolutely irresistible, and I couldn't wait to take a bite. I sprinkled them with a dusting of powdered sugar and then took my first taste.

The flavor was beyond anything I could have imagined. The sweetness of the bananas paired perfectly with the warmth of the cinnamon, creating a heavenly combination that melted in my mouth. The doughnuts were soft and tender, with a slight crispness on the outside that added the perfect textural contrast.

I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my baking repertoire. I made them for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. It brought me so much joy to share this delicious treat with the people I loved.

Over the years, I have continued to make these Banana Doughnuts, tweaking the recipe here and there to make them even more perfect. I have shared the recipe with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have become fast friends after tasting these delectable treats.

The recipe for Banana Doughnuts has become more than just a recipe to me. It is a piece of my family's history, a reminder of the joy that baking and sharing delicious food can bring. It is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly magical.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that sunny Sunday morning when I first stumbled upon this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for all the memories and moments that these Banana Doughnuts have brought into my life. They have become a symbol of love, connection, and the simple pleasures that can be found in a warm, homemade treat.

And so, I will continue to bake these Banana Doughnuts for as long as I am able, passing down the recipe to future generations and sharing the joy and deliciousness that they bring. For me, there is no greater gift than being able to create something so wonderful and share it with the people I hold dear.