Looking for a fun and flavorful dessert or snack that blends tropical sweetness with wholesome ingredients? These Sweet Potato Pineapple Upside Donut Rings combine the natural sweetness and creaminess of roasted sweet potatoes with juicy pineapple rings, all baked into tender, golden donut-shaped treats. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a guilt-free indulgence any time of day.
This recipe offers a creative way to enjoy fruit and vegetables in a deliciously unexpected form. The upside-down pineapple style brings a nostalgic vibe while the sweet potato adds moisture and nutrition.
Ingredients
Makes about 12 donut rings
For the Donut Batter:
- 1 cup cooked and mashed sweet potato (about 1 medium sweet potato)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Pineapple Topping:
- 12 canned pineapple rings, drained (or fresh pineapple slices)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 15–18 minutes
- Cooling time: 10 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Sweet Potato
- If not already cooked, roast or boil a sweet potato until tender. Peel and mash until smooth. Let cool slightly.
Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a donut pan thoroughly or spray with non-stick cooking spray.
Step 3: Make the Pineapple Glaze
- In a small bowl, combine brown sugar and melted butter.
- Spoon about one teaspoon of the mixture into the bottom of each donut mold.
- Place one pineapple ring on top of the sugar mixture in each mold.
Step 4: Prepare Donut Batter
- In a large bowl, whisk together mashed sweet potato, brown sugar, melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Step 5: Fill Donut Molds and Bake
- Spoon batter evenly over the pineapple rings, filling each mold about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the donuts comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Remove
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully invert onto a cooling rack or plate so the pineapple rings are on top.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy warm with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey.
- Pair with a cup of herbal tea or cold pineapple juice for a tropical breakfast vibe.
- Serve alongside Greek yogurt or whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 donut ring) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Protein | 3 grams |
| Total Fat | 7 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 3 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 28 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugars | 15 grams |
| Sodium | 110 milligrams |
Key Nutritional Benefits:
- Sweet potatoes provide fiber, vitamin A, and antioxidants.
- Pineapple adds vitamin C and a refreshing tropical sweetness.
- Coconut oil offers medium-chain triglycerides for quick energy.
- Moderately sweetened for balanced flavor without overpowering sugar.
Tips for Success
- Use canned pineapple rings for ease, but fresh pineapple works beautifully too.
- Ensure sweet potatoes are well mashed for a smooth batter.
- Don’t overfill the molds to prevent overflow during baking.
- Cool slightly before unmolding to keep the pineapple topping intact.
Variations to Try
- Add chopped macadamia nuts or shredded coconut to the batter for extra texture.
- Spice up with a pinch of ground ginger or nutmeg for warmth.
- Use maple syrup or agave instead of brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.
- Make mini muffins instead of donuts for bite-sized treats.
Sweet Potato Pineapple Upside Donut Rings offer a unique and delicious way to combine wholesome ingredients with classic tropical flavors. Moist, fruity, and just sweet enough, these donut rings will brighten up your breakfast table or snack time with a fun twist on traditional upside-down cake.