Easter Carrot Cake Baked Donuts
A delightful twist on a classic dessert, these Easter Carrot Cake Baked Donuts are moist, spiced, and topped with creamy ricotta frosting, perfect for celebrations or brunch.
Ingredients
For the donuts
- 300 g ricotta cheese or dairy-free Greek-style yogurt Drained
- 2 tbsp liquid honey
- 1 tbsp finely grated orange zest Plus 1 more for garnish
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 180 g sifted all-purpose flour
- 40 g almond flour Optional
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- a small pinch grated nutmeg
- a pinch sea salt
- 100 g demerara sugar
- 4 medium eggs
- 2 tbsp mild extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 Juice of 1 orange
- 300 g finely shredded carrots
- 4 tbsp chopped walnuts Plus for garnish
For the frosting
- Ricotta cream prepared from the ricotta
Instructions
Preparation
- Drain the ricotta in a cheesecloth over a sieve in the fridge for 2 hours.
- Whisk the ricotta with honey, orange zest, and vanilla until smooth; chill until needed.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (360°F), place the rack in the middle, and lightly grease a donut pan with oil.
Mixing
- In a large bowl, combine the sifted flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk the eggs and sugar until pale and slightly foamy.
- Add the orange juice, orange zest, olive oil, and vanilla extract, then mix until fully combined.
- Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until smooth, being careful not to overmix.
- Stir in the grated carrots and chopped walnuts until evenly distributed.
Baking
- Fill each donut mold about halfway to avoid over-rising.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let them cool completely before removing from the pan.
Serving
- Just before serving, frost with the ricotta cream and finish with chopped walnuts and grated carrot.
Notes
For added flavor in the frosting, mix in additional orange zest or a hint of vanilla. Donuts can be served with coffee or tea and garnished with edible flowers or powdered sugar for a festive touch.