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Easy Chai Spice Donuts

These aromatic Easy Chai Spice Donuts evoke warmth and nostalgia, blending spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom for a comforting treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 24 pieces
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 175
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the donuts
  • 1.5 cups 1 and 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar This sweet foundation forms the core of your donuts, elevating their flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Adds a warm and familiar spice that brings comfort.
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon ground ginger Introduces a zesty kick, perfect for a chai-inspired treat.
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon ground cardamom Offers a fragrant and exotic flavor, transporting you to chai markets.
  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice Complements the other spices with its rich aroma.
  • 1 cup 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled) Provides structure and a light texture.
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon baking powder Ensures your donuts rise beautifully.
  • 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon baking soda Works alongside the baking powder for the perfect lift.
  • 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
  • 1/2 cup 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (divided) Brings a creamy richness to each donut.
  • 1 large 1 large egg Binds the ingredients together, adding moisture.
  • 1/4 cup 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream Enhances texture and contributes a delightful tang.
  • 1/4 cup 1/4 cup (60ml) milk Adds moisture that will make your donuts irresistibly soft.
  • 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Infuses a sweet aroma that complements the spices perfectly.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Prepare your donut pan or mini muffin pan by spraying it with non-stick spray. Set aside.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together 1 and 1/3 cups of granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and allspice. This mixture will add flavor and will also be used for coating.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this bowl aside.
Mixing
  1. In another bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of melted butter, the egg, 1/3 cup of the sugar/spice mix (save the rest for later), sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well-combined.
  2. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. It’s important not to over-mix; your batter may be thick, which is fine.
Baking
  1. Use a large zipped-top bag to pipe the batter into the donut pan. Fill each cavity 2/3 to 3/4 full.
  2. Bake your donuts or donut holes for 9–10 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned and spring back when gently touched.
  3. Once baked, transfer the donuts to a wire rack set over parchment paper or a large baking sheet. Allow them to cool enough to handle.
Finishing Touches
  1. Re-melt the remaining butter if necessary. Dip each donut into the melted butter then into the reserved sugar/spice mix, ensuring every part is coated.
  2. Serve your donuts warm for the best experience. Leftovers can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Notes

For extra flavor, try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. A simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk can enhance sweetness, or a cream cheese frosting adds richness. Using a piping bag ensures uniformity in size for even baking.