Coconut Cardamom Pecan Baked Doughnuts

Coconut Cardamom Pecan Baked Doughnuts are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Baked cardamom spiced doughnuts get tossed into a coconut pecan dusted sugar and for the ultimate dessert morning noon or night! 

If you’re a fan of doughnuts but are looking for something a little more unique and sophisticated than your usual flavors, say hello to Coconut Cardamom Pecan Baked Doughnuts! 

These doughnuts combine a luscious medley of warm, aromatic cardamom, crunchy toasted pecans, and the tropical sweetness of coconut for an irresistibly flavorful experience. Plus, they’re baked—not fried—making them a lighter, yet still indulgent, treat.

Now, if you’re looking to expand your doughnut baking game, you definitely need to try: Baked Pumpkin Doughnuts, Cider Doughnuts, or Chocolate Chip Baked Doughnuts.

Where was I? Oh, yes: Coconut Cardamom Pecan Baked Doughnuts. Not only are these an elevated doughnut, but are super easy to make. I say let’s dive in and make some! 

Why Coconut, Cardamom, and Pecans?

Coconut adds a creamy, natural sweetness to the doughnut without overpowering the other ingredients. Cardamom brings a floral, citrusy warmth that elevates the flavor profile, giving it a slightly exotic feel. Toasted pecans, with their buttery richness, add a satisfying crunch and nutty depth, balancing out the lightness of the coconut and the spice of the cardamom.

Baking Doughnuts instead of Frying

These doughnuts are baked rather than fried, which means they are lower in fat and calories but still deliver that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Baked doughnuts tend to have a more cake-like consistency, and in this recipe, they stay moist and flavorful, thanks to the coconut and pecans.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re serving them at brunch, bringing them to a weekend gathering, or simply enjoying one with your morning coffee, Coconut Cardamom Pecan Baked Doughnuts will impress with their delicate balance of flavors. They’re perfect for those who enjoy classic treats but want something with a gourmet twist.

Ingredients to Make Coconut Cardamom Pecan Baked Doughnuts

Best part about making baking doughnuts is the clean up. Super simple and everything can go back into the pantry. You’ll need the following ingredients to make these bad boys: 

• All-purpose flour
• Unsalted butter
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Baking powder
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Cardamom
• Coconut Flakes
• Crushed Pecans

How to Make Coconut Cardamom Pecan Baked Doughnuts

No pot of oil is required to make these delicious doughnuts. All you need to do is mix all the ingredients into a bowl, pour into a doughnut pan, and bake! Follow the instructions below for success: 

• Preheat an oven to 350 degrees. Spray a doughnut pan with non-stick cooking spray.
• In a large bowl, you will want to combine all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom and kosher salt.
• Once combined, add in the whole milk, eggs, butter and extract. Stir to make sure everything is combined. Next, your going to spoon the batter into each doughnut cavity filling about 3/4 full. Use the back of the spoon to make sure the batter is flat.
• Bake the doughnuts for about 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and place doughnuts on a wire rack to cool. Repeat process until all the doughnut batter is used.
• Once the doughnuts have cooled, melt the butter in the microwave or over the stovetop. Pour the butter into into a bowl. In another bowl combine granulated sugar, coconut flakes, crushed pecans and cardamom. Take a doughnut and dip it into the butter followed by the coconut mixture. Repeat process until all doughnuts have been covered.

Variations for Coconut Cardamom Pecan Baked Doughnuts

The unique blend of coconut, cardamom, and pecans makes these baked doughnuts truly special, but there’s always room to put your own spin on them! Whether you’re catering to different dietary preferences or just want to experiment with flavors, here are some fun and tasty variations to try:

Chocolate Coconut Cardamom Doughnuts

For those who can’t resist chocolate, add a chocolate twist to this recipe:

• How to Make It: Mix cocoa powder (about ¼ cup) into the dry ingredients for a chocolate-infused doughnut. For extra decadence, dip the doughnuts in melted dark chocolate and sprinkle toasted coconut on top.
• Why It Works: The richness of chocolate pairs beautifully with the warmth of cardamom and the sweetness of coconut, creating a more indulgent dessert.

Gluten-Free Coconut Cardamom Pecan Doughnuts

Looking for a gluten-free option? This version has all the flavor but without the gluten.

• How to Make It: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum or add a small amount (about 1/2 teaspoon) to help bind the dough.
• Why It Works: With the right gluten-free flour, you’ll still achieve the same soft texture and full-bodied flavor of the original recipe.

Vegan Coconut Cardamom Pecan Doughnuts

If you’re catering to a vegan diet, it’s easy to make these doughnuts plant-based.

• How to Make It: Swap the eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg). Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative instead of regular butter, and opt for a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk.
• Why It Works: Coconut and cardamom are already vegan-friendly, so these swaps ensure the doughnuts stay moist and flavorful while being entirely plant-based.

Citrus-Infused Doughnuts

For a refreshing twist, add some citrus notes to brighten up the flavor profile.

• How to Make It: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter and a few teaspoons of juice to the glaze (if you’re using one).
• Why It Works: The fresh, zesty flavor complements the floral notes of the cardamom and pairs beautifully with the coconut, adding a burst of brightness to each bite.

Proper Storing 

Storing at Room Temperature (Up to 2 Days)

• How to Store: Place the doughnuts in an airtight container. Layer parchment paper between doughnuts if stacking to prevent sticking. Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Refrigeration (Up to 5 Days)

• How to Store: If you need to keep the doughnuts for longer, refrigerate them in an airtight container. This will extend their shelf life by a few days.

Freezing (Up to 3 Months)

• How to Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the doughnuts. First, wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap or foil to protect them from freezer burn. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.