How to Make Pancake Donuts That Kids Will Love (Full Guide)

If your kids love pancakes but you want to switch things up, pancake donuts are the magical cross between breakfast and dessert that will make everyone smile. Soft, fluffy, and fun to decorate, these little treats are perfect for slow Sunday mornings, birthday brunches, or even as a surprise after school snack.

I first made pancake donuts on a rainy afternoon when my toddler was bouncing off the walls. We pulled out the mixing bowls, giggled over the flour puff clouds, and by the end, we had warm, sweet-smelling donuts on the table. Safe to say—it became a family tradition.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this step-by-step guide will help you create pancake donuts your kids will rave about.

Why Pancake Donuts Are a Mom’s Secret Weapon

• Quick to make – No need for hours of baking.
• Kid-friendly to help with – They can pour, stir, and decorate.
• Endless flavor possibilities – From classic vanilla to fruity or chocolatey twists.
• Portable and mess-free – Great for picnics, playdates, or snack boxes.

They’re also perfect for rainy days or those too-hot-to-go-out afternoons. If you’re looking for more creative ways to keep little ones entertained indoors, check out our indoor toddler activities guide for inspiration.

Ingredients for Pancake Donuts

The beauty of pancake donuts is that you can make them with pantry staples you probably already have:

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sweetness)

Wet Ingredients:

• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp melted butter or coconut oil
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Add-Ins:

• Mini chocolate chips
• Blueberries
• Cinnamon powder
• Mashed banana

Equipment You’ll Need

• Donut baking pan (non-stick preferred)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pancake Donuts

1. Preheat and Prep

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your donut pan with butter or non-stick spray.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and sugar. Stir until well blended.

3. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.

4. Bring It All Together

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently mix until combined. The batter should be slightly thick—avoid overmixing to keep them soft and fluffy.

5. Add Fun Extras

Fold in chocolate chips, fruit, or spices if you want a flavor twist.

6. Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into a piping bag (or a ziplock with the corner cut off) and fill each donut mold about ¾ full.

7. Bake to Perfection

Bake for 8–10 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

8. Cool Before Decorating

Transfer donuts to a cooling rack. Let them cool for 5 minutes before glazing or adding toppings.

Topping Ideas Kids Will Go Crazy For

• Classic Glaze – Powdered sugar + milk + vanilla.
• Chocolate Dip – Melted chocolate chips with a splash of cream.
• Sprinkle Party – A thin glaze topped with rainbow sprinkles.
• Fruit Burst – Top with fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Cinnamon Sugar – Roll warm donuts in a cinnamon-sugar mix.

Flavor Variations to Try

1. Banana Pancake Donuts – Add mashed banana to the batter for natural sweetness.
2. Strawberry Shortcake – Fill the center with whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
3. Nutella Surprise – Pipe Nutella into the center after baking.
4. Lemon Blueberry – Add lemon zest and fresh blueberries for a summer twist.

Getting Kids Involved

Cooking together is one of the best ways to bond and teach life skills. Here’s how little helpers can join in:

• Pour and measure ingredients.
• Stir the batter.
• Choose and sprinkle toppings.
• Taste-test (their favorite part!).

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature.
• Freeze for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat before serving.
• Make the batter ahead and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the batter – Makes donuts dense.
• Filling the pan too much – Leads to overflowing.
• Skipping the cooling step – Causes glaze to melt right off.

Final Thoughts

Pancake donuts are more than just a treat—they’re an activity, a memory, and a smile all rolled into one. Whether you make them for a weekend breakfast or a surprise after-school snack, they’re bound to become a family favorite.

So next time your kids ask for pancakes, give them this fun twist and enjoy the giggles, sticky fingers, and happy tummies that follow.