These Baked Pistachio Pudding Donuts are soft, moist, and full of nutty flavor with a hint of vanilla sweetness. Made with pistachio pudding mix, they have a unique texture and vibrant green color that makes them as beautiful as they are delicious. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat with coffee, these donuts are a must-try for any pistachio lover!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 (3.4 oz) package instant pistachio pudding mix
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup chopped pistachios (optional, for added texture)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped pistachios (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, pistachio pudding mix, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Gradually add wet ingredients to dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fold in chopped pistachios if using.
6. Spoon or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
8. For the glaze, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip each donut into the glaze and sprinkle with chopped pistachios.
9. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrients (Per Donut)

• Calories: ~220
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 3g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 20g

These donuts are a delightful mix of soft, sweet, and nutty flavors that will make any occasion special! 🍩💚

What Makes These Donuts Special?

Baked donuts have gained popularity due to their ease of preparation and lighter texture. What sets these Baked Pistachio Pudding Donuts apart is the use of instant pistachio pudding mix, which enhances the flavor, color, and texture. The pudding mix contributes to their signature moistness while infusing every bite with a rich pistachio essence. Additionally, the gentle vanilla notes balance the nuttiness, making them a perfectly harmonized treat.

Another distinguishing feature of these donuts is their vibrant color. While some baked goods rely on food coloring, the pudding mix naturally gives these donuts a light green shade, making them not only delicious but also visually appealing. Garnishing with chopped pistachios further enhances their beauty and adds a delightful crunch.

The Appeal of Pistachio Flavor

Pistachios have long been a beloved ingredient in both sweet and savory recipes. Their slightly sweet, nutty profile pairs beautifully with a range of flavors, from chocolate to citrus. In these donuts, the pistachio flavor takes center stage, complemented by vanilla and a touch of buttery richness. The result is a balanced, indulgent treat that feels both luxurious and comforting.

For those who love pistachio-based desserts, these donuts are a must-try. They encapsulate the essence of pistachios in a soft, cake-like form, offering a taste reminiscent of pistachio ice cream or classic Middle Eastern sweets.

The Texture: Soft, Moist, and Perfectly Baked

One of the most delightful aspects of these donuts is their texture. Since they are baked rather than fried, they have a cake-like consistency—soft, moist, and tender. The pudding mix plays a crucial role in this, ensuring that the donuts remain airy and never dry.

For an added texture boost, incorporating chopped pistachios into the batter provides a pleasant contrast to the softness of the donut. The slight crunch from the nuts enhances the overall eating experience, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Why Baked Donuts Are a Great Choice

While traditional fried donuts are undeniably delicious, baked donuts offer several advantages:

• Healthier Alternative: Baked donuts contain less oil and fat compared to their fried counterparts, making them a slightly healthier treat.
• Ease of Preparation: Unlike fried donuts, which require careful frying and oil management, baked donuts can be easily prepared in a donut pan and baked in the oven.
• Less Mess: Baking eliminates the hassle of dealing with hot oil and deep frying, making cleanup much simpler.
• Consistent Texture: Baked donuts have a uniform, cake-like texture that stays soft and moist for longer periods.

For home bakers and dessert lovers, baked donuts are a great way to enjoy a classic treat without the extra effort and calories of deep frying.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Baked Pistachio Pudding Donuts are versatile and suitable for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, looking for a sweet addition to a dessert table, or simply treating yourself, these donuts fit the bill.

They pair wonderfully with coffee or tea, making them an excellent breakfast or snack option. The glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness, while the chopped pistachios provide an appealing contrast in both texture and flavor.

For special occasions, you can customize the donuts by drizzling them with white chocolate, adding a dusting of powdered sugar, or even incorporating a hint of almond extract for an extra depth of flavor.

Storing and Enjoying Your Donuts

To keep your Baked Pistachio Pudding Donuts fresh, follow these simple storage tips:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to two days. Keeping them covered ensures they remain soft and moist.
• Refrigeration: If you need to store them for a longer period, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Bring them to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
• Freezing: These donuts freeze well! Place them in a single layer in an airtight container or freezer bag and freeze for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

For the best flavor and texture, consider glazing the donuts just before serving, as this prevents the glaze from becoming too soft or absorbing into the donut over time.

Nutritional Benefits of Pistachios

While these donuts are an indulgent treat, they also offer some nutritional benefits thanks to pistachios. Pistachios are a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. They are packed with antioxidants, which support overall health and well-being. Including them in these donuts not only enhances the flavor but also adds a slight nutritional boost.

Additionally, pistachios contain essential vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, phosphorus, and potassium, making them a smart choice for those looking to incorporate more nutrient-dense ingredients into their desserts.

Conclusion

Baked Pistachio Pudding Donuts are a delicious, easy-to-make treat that offers a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Their soft and moist consistency, enhanced by the addition of pistachio pudding mix, sets them apart from traditional baked goods. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast indulgence, an afternoon snack, or a special treat for guests, these donuts never fail to impress.

By baking instead of frying, these donuts provide a lighter, healthier alternative without compromising taste. With their nutty pistachio flavor, subtle sweetness, and beautiful green hue, they are an irresistible option for any pistachio lover. Give them a try, and you may find yourself baking them again and again!