With Alix and then Sasha, I have always loved offering simple recipes that still feel meaningful, especially during the Christmas season. It is one of those times when we cook more, when the house smells like orange, cinnamon, and warm spices… And I wanted a little version of homemade gingerbread, suitable for babies from 12 months, with a soft, tender texture, not too much sugar, and above all quick to make.
I love this idea of donut-shaped gingerbread (I bought my donut pan here!) because it brings together everything baby loves: a small, soft, tender cake that is easy to hold, with a truly comforting flavor.
And visually… it is Christmas magic in a mini wreath!
Here, we only use:
– applesauce for softness,
– a little honey (allowed from 12 months),
– gingerbread spices,
– wheat flour,
– and orange zest (which adds an incredible aroma).
No unnecessary ingredients, no added sugar, no egg: a simple, wholesome, baby-friendly recipe that the whole family will happily grab from the plate (I’ll let you imagine why!).
For more ideas around Christmas recipes for baby, you can also check out:
→ Butternut squash velouté with cinnamon whipped cream and scallops
Now it is time for gingerbread donuts… the kind that literally make the whole kitchen smell like Christmas.
Ingredients
(for 8 mini donuts):
Preparation
1. Mix the wet ingredients
In a bowl, mix the applesauce, honey, oil, and vanilla.
2. Add the dry ingredients
Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and gingerbread spice blend.
3. Add the orange zest
Fold in the orange zest and mix just enough to get a smooth batter.
4. Mix
Mix until you get a smooth gingerbread batter.
5. Fill the molds
Divide the gingerbread batter between the donut molds, filling them up to the center ridge. I bought my donut pan here, and I am extremely happy with it!
6. Bake
Bake for 16 to 20 minutes at 340°F (170°C), until the donuts are lightly golden.
7. Unmold and decorate
Unmold right away, let cool, then dust with sifted powdered sugar (optional, but it gives a guaranteed snow effect!) + a few very fine orange zests.
Why is this great for baby?
- Soft texture, not crumbly.
- No added sugar (only honey, allowed from 12 months).
- Egg-free: ideal if baby is sensitive to eggs.
- Dairy-free: perfect in case of cow’s milk protein allergy or lactose intolerance.
- Very gentle flavors, no harsh spices.
- Donut shape = very easy to hold once baby has mastered the pincer grasp with little hands.
Storage
- 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container.
- 1 month in the freezer (slow thawing → perfect).
FAQ
At what age can baby have gingerbread?
From 12 months, because it contains honey (not allowed before 1 year).
Can I leave out the honey?
Yes, but the result will be less flavorful. You can replace it with:
– 20 g extra applesauce
– or 20 g date paste
Can I add more spices?
For a baby: it is better to keep the flavor gentle.
For adults: you can double the spices.
Can I use a regular mold?
Yes: mini muffins, mini loaf cakes… The baking time may just be a little longer (18 to 22 minutes).
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