These slightly sweet, baked cornmeal doughnuts can be enjoyed as a snack, breakfast, or side to savory quesadillas. They come together quickly and bake in about 30 minutes. When topped with a drizzle of honey or your favorite jam, they make a sweet treat that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
2 cups Masa Harina
1 teaspoon salt
4 Tablespoons dark brown sugar
1 Tablespoon honey, plus more for drizzling
1 cup plus 3 Tablespoons warm water
1 1/4 teaspoons vanilla
What is Masa Harina?
Masa Harina, also known as golden corn flour, is flour made from masa. Masa is the Spanish word for dough and is made from ground up corn. Masa is often used to make corn tortillas but here we will use it to make doughnuts.
How to make baked masa harina doughnuts
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray a cookie sheet with non-stick cooking spray.
In a large bowl, combine masa harina, salt, and brown sugar. Add in half the warm water and the vanilla. Slowly add in the remaining water, mixing until a smooth dough forms. You may need a little more water to get your dough to stick together. Using your hands, squeeze the dough together to ensure it will stick together and not fall apart when you form the doughnuts.
Using about a 1/4 cup of the dough, roll it between your hands to make a 4 inch long snake. This may remind you of playing with play dough!
Gently pinch the ends together, forming a circle. Repair any tears with your fingers, pinching the dough into a smooth circle.
Place the dough about two inches apart on the cookie sheet.
Bake for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Top with either a drizzle of honey or a dollop of your favorite jam.
Variation
To make the baked doughnuts savory instead of sweet, omit the brown sugar and vanilla. Add in 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese and 5 Tbs. chopped chives. Serve with fresh salsa and sour cream.
To make the baked doughnuts vegan and savory, omit the brown sugar and vanilla. Add in 1/2 cup daiya cheddar cheese shreds and 5 Tbs. chopped chives. Serve with fresh salsa and guacamole.
