If you’ve ever wondered how to transform a simple cornbread recipe into a show-stopping, crave-worthy treat, let me introduce you to these Sweet and Savory Maple Cornbread Doughnuts! They’re the perfect fusion of rustic charm and gourmet flair, bringing together the earthy sweetness of maple syrup, the crunch of pecans, and a surprising savory pop from fresh scallions.
These beauties are ideal for brunch gatherings, cozy mornings, or even a snack to brighten your day. And the best part? They come together in just 30 minutes!
Ready to dive into the magic of maple and cornbread? Let’s bake some doughnuts! And don’t forget to subscribe to receive more mouthwatering recipes like this right in your inbox!
Why You’ll Love These Doughnuts 💛
A Perfect Flavor Combo
The balance of sweet and savory is irresistible. The sweetness of the maple glaze paired with the buttery cornbread base and a touch of cinnamon is complemented beautifully by the fresh, slightly oniony taste of scallions.
Texture, Texture, Texture
From the light and fluffy doughnut base to the crunch of chopped pecans and the sticky glaze on top, every bite is a textural delight.
Quick and Easy
With a total prep and bake time of only 30 minutes, these doughnuts make for an effortless treat that looks and tastes like you spent hours on them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The Doughnut Batter:
- 1 cup cornmeal 🌽 (for that quintessential cornbread texture!)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed (adds a touch of caramel-like sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional but highly recommended!)
- 1 cup buttermilk (for tang and moisture)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup 🍁
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (for added crunch and nuttiness)
For the Glaze and Garnish:
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (warmed for glazing)
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions 🌿 (optional but amazing for that pop of savory freshness)
Tools You’ll Need
- Doughnut pan
- Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
- Whisk
- Spoon or piping bag (for filling the pan)
- Saucepan (for the glaze)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your doughnut pan with vegetable oil. This ensures the doughnuts pop out easily without sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until everything is evenly combined.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, maple syrup, vegetable oil, and eggs. The mixture will be rich, creamy, and wonderfully aromatic.
4. Bring It All Together
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the doughnuts light and fluffy.
5. Add Pecans
Fold in the chopped pecans for that signature crunch in every bite.
6. Fill the Pan
Spoon or pipe the batter into your prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
7. Bake to Perfection
Bake the doughnuts for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Glaze and Garnish
While the doughnuts are cooling slightly, warm the maple syrup in a small saucepan over low heat. Dip the tops of each doughnut into the warm glaze, then sprinkle with chopped scallions for that final savory touch.
Serving Suggestions 🌟
- Pair these doughnuts with a steaming cup of coffee or chai for a comforting breakfast.
- Serve alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and fresh fruit for a balanced brunch spread.
- Add a drizzle of spicy honey for a little kick!
Tips for Perfect Doughnuts
- Don’t Overmix: A gentle hand ensures the batter stays light and airy.
- Keep an Eye on the Bake Time: Overbaking can dry out the doughnuts, so check them at the 12-minute mark.
- Warm the Glaze: A warm maple glaze sticks better to the doughnuts and enhances the overall flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store these doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To extend their freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Gluten-Free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
What If I Don’t Have a Doughnut Pan?
No problem! Use a muffin tin instead and bake slightly longer (around 18-20 minutes).
Can I Skip the Scallions?
Absolutely! If you prefer a fully sweet version, just leave them off.
Why You Should Make These Today
These Sweet and Savory Maple Cornbread Doughnuts are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of bold, unexpected flavors. They’re quick to make, visually stunning, and packed with comforting textures and tastes that will make your heart sing.
For more recipes like this, check out my favorite takes on cornbread classics, including:
- Honey Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins
- Peach and Maple Cornbread Cake
I’d love to see how your doughnuts turn out! Share your photos on Pinterest or leave a review below. Let’s spread the joy of baking!
Nutritional Information (per doughnut):
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 27g
- Sugar: 15g
Enjoy baking these delicious doughnuts, and may your kitchen be filled with warmth and happiness! 🥰
Variations to Try
One of the best things about these Sweet and Savory Maple Cornbread Doughnuts is their versatility! Here are some fun twists you can try to make them your own:
- Cheesy Delight: Add 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the batter for a savory kick. Pair it with the scallion garnish for a flavor-packed bite.
- Spicy Maple: Mix 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the dry ingredients for a subtle heat that balances beautifully with the maple glaze.
- Cranberry-Pecan Fusion: Toss in 1/4 cup of dried cranberries along with the pecans for a touch of tartness.
- Zesty Lemon Glaze: Swap the maple syrup glaze with a lemon glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy finish.
What Makes Cornbread Doughnuts Unique?
If you’re wondering why you should ditch traditional cornbread and give these doughnuts a try, here’s what sets them apart:
- Portability: Unlike cornbread slices, these doughnuts are easy to grab and go—perfect for picnics or busy mornings.
- Portion Control: Each doughnut is a perfectly portioned treat, so there’s no guesswork involved.
- Presentation: Their circular shape and glossy glaze make them a visually stunning dish for entertaining.
- Versatility: They’re as good for dessert as they are for brunch, thanks to their unique sweet-and-savory profile.
Fun Serving Ideas
- DIY Doughnut Bar: Set up a DIY doughnut station with toppings like crushed nuts, shredded coconut, or extra glaze options (like chocolate or caramel). This is especially fun for gatherings!
- Holiday Brunch Addition: These doughnuts are a festive addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas brunch, offering a unique twist on traditional cornbread.
- Picnic Snack: Pack these doughnuts into a picnic basket alongside some fresh fruit and iced tea for an outdoor treat.
The Magic of Maple Syrup 🍁
Maple syrup isn’t just sweet—it’s a liquid gold packed with flavor. When used in this recipe, it enhances the natural earthiness of the cornmeal and adds a richness that’s hard to beat. Fun fact: the depth of flavor in your doughnuts can vary depending on the grade of maple syrup you use. For this recipe, I recommend Grade A Dark Amber for the most robust maple flavor.
Seasonal Twist
Want to make these doughnuts a seasonal favorite? Try incorporating ingredients that match the time of year:
- Fall: Add pumpkin puree (about 1/4 cup) to the wet ingredients and a dash of nutmeg for a cozy autumn vibe.
- Spring: Use finely chopped fresh herbs like thyme or chives in place of scallions for a delicate, seasonal twist.
- Summer: Serve with a dollop of whipped honey butter and fresh berries for a light, sunny feel.
Ingredients
- The Doughnut Batter:
- 1 cup cornmeal 🌽 for that quintessential cornbread texture!
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar packed (adds a touch of caramel-like sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional but highly recommended!
- 1 cup buttermilk for tang and moisture
- 1/4 cup maple syrup 🍁
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and nuttiness
- For the Glaze and Garnish:
- 1/2 cup maple syrup warmed for glazing
- 1/4 cup chopped scallions 🌿 optional but amazing for that pop of savory freshness
- Tools You’ll Need
- Doughnut pan
- Mixing bowls one large, one medium
- Whisk
- Spoon or piping bag for filling the pan
- Saucepan for the glaze
Instructions
- Preheat and Prep
- Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your doughnut pan with vegetable oil. This ensures the doughnuts pop out easily without sticking.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until everything is evenly combined.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, maple syrup, vegetable oil, and eggs. The mixture will be rich, creamy, and wonderfully aromatic.
- Bring It All Together
- Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps the doughnuts light and fluffy.
- Add Pecans
- Fold in the chopped pecans for that signature crunch in every bite.
- Fill the Pan
- Spoon or pipe the batter into your prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
- Bake to Perfection
- Bake the doughnuts for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Glaze and Garnish
- While the doughnuts are cooling slightly, warm the maple syrup in a small saucepan over low heat. Dip the tops of each doughnut into the warm glaze, then sprinkle with chopped scallions for that final savory touch.
Notes
Pair these doughnuts with a steaming cup of coffee or chai for a comforting breakfast.
Serve alongside scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and fresh fruit for a balanced brunch spread.
Add a drizzle of spicy honey for a little kick!
