We call this gluten-free donut recipe our duped keto Dunkin’ donuts: simple, old-fashioned plain donuts coated in a cinnamon “sugar” because we love that classic coating. You can prepare these baked, sugar-free donuts from start to finish in about 30 minutes.
There are two reasons we love this recipe. First, there’s no deep frying — these treats are baked, so no greasy mess, no hot oil, and no deep fryer to clean. Second, the recipe yields a neat half dozen, so you don’t have to run a second batch unless you want to double the recipe.
At roughly 3 net carbs per donut, these are excellent for low-carb or keto diets.
A few notes about this gluten-free donut Recipe
This recipe is adaptable. Think of them as sugar-free Dunkin’ cinnamon donuts, but feel free to glaze them, add sugar-free sprinkles, coat them in chocolate, or get creative with toppings. They’re perfect when you need a donut fix.
This donut recipe is:
- Refined sugar-free
- Gluten-free
- Low carb
- Easy and quick to make
- Small batch (makes six)
- Freezes exceptionally well
A Note About Nutmeg
The star flavor in old-fashioned doughnuts is nutmeg.
Nutmeg is a seed, not a tree nut. People with a tree-nut allergy can often consume seeds without issue.
Freshly ground nutmeg is stronger than jarred pre-ground nutmeg. If you use freshly ground nutmeg, reduce the amount in this recipe by 1/4 teaspoon.
Which sweeteners work best in this low-carb donut recipe?
We use allulose because it gives the best texture and flavor in low-carb and gluten-free baked goods. Bocca Sweet performs similarly and is a good alternative.
You can use erythritol or monk fruit, but note that monk fruit can make the donuts drier, and erythritol can cause them to firm up as they cool. If you choose erythritol, keep the donuts covered and stored at room temperature to maintain the best texture.
Tips & tricks to get gluten-free donut batter perfect every time
Low-carb baking has a few consistent techniques that improve results. For this donut recipe, follow these specific tips to achieve the best texture:
- Sift your dry ingredients. Gluten-free flour blends tend to clump, so sifting creates a smoother batter.
- Don’t skip the vinegar. It helps thicken the cream and activates the leavening agents. You won’t taste it in the finished donuts.
- Include xanthan gum. Even the small amount called for improves texture. If you need a substitute, look for a trusted alternative, but the gum helps hold the structure.
- Use room-temperature eggs. Adding melted butter to cold eggs can cause the butter to seize and change the donut texture.
- Whisk the wet ingredients until light and foamy. This helps create a tender crumb.
- Gently fold wet into dry and avoid over-mixing. Over-mixing produces a dense, heavy result.
Extra baking tips
- Grease your donut pan very well with butter, coconut oil, or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Use a piping bag to fill the wells neatly, and fill each well to the top edge for an even shape.
- After 10 minutes of baking, cover the pan loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
Storage & serving suggestions
If you used allulose or Bocca Sweet, store the finished donuts covered in the refrigerator for up to four days.
If you used sugar alcohols like xylitol or erythritol, store the donuts covered at room temperature for up to three days.
These donuts also freeze well for up to one month.
They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee — just like a trip to the donut shop.
Baking tools required for this recipe
A donut pan is recommended for this recipe because the batter is soft and won’t hold shape on a baking sheet or muffin tin. A mini donut pan or donut-hole pan can be used for smaller portions.
We prefer a metal donut pan over silicone to avoid spills when filling.
Essential tools:
- A doughnut pan
- Mixing bowls (one large and one medium)
- A whisk (avoid electric mixers)
- A pastry bag (or a zip-top bag with the corner cut)
- A silicone spatula
- A sifter or fine-mesh strainer
- A wire cooling rack
Easy-to-make homemade gluten-free donuts
If you follow a gluten-free lifestyle but miss a traditional donut, this sugar-free gluten-free donut hits the spot. These sugar-free donuts are ideal for low-carb and keto diets. Skip the sugary chains and make these at home in about 30 minutes.
Enjoy!
Looking for more gluten-free donut recipes? Try these variations:
- Keto Pumpkin Spice Donuts
- Strawberry-Glazed Donuts
- Chocolate-Glazed Donuts
Editorial note: This post was originally published on February 2, 2021 and updated on February 7, 2022.
