These Baked Apple Donuts are the perfect autumn treat, combining warm apple flavors with a cozy cinnamon sugar coating. Made with applesauce and gently spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, these donuts are baked—not fried—so they’re light and tender. They’re quick to make and absolutely delicious, making them ideal for a weekend breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative: Baked instead of fried, these donuts have a light texture and are lower in fat.
- Classic Fall Flavors: The apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg create a flavor that’s perfect for autumn.
- Easy to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, these donuts are a quick and satisfying treat.
- Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
Ingredients
For the Donuts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Donut Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan with cooking spray or a little melted butter. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
Step 2: Fill the Donut Pan and Bake
Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full. Use a spatula or spoon to smooth the tops. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly touched. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Brush each cooled donut with melted butter, then dip the donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture, coating them evenly on both sides. Allow the donuts to set for a few minutes before serving.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: These donuts are best enjoyed warm, with a cup of coffee, hot apple cider, or tea.
- Storage: Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to five days and reheat briefly before serving.
- Freezing: If you’d like to freeze them, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature and warm up in the oven for a few minutes.
Helpful Notes
- Batter Consistency: Avoid overmixing the batter to ensure light and fluffy donuts. Mix just until all ingredients are combined.
- Donut Pan Alternative: If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin, but adjust the baking time slightly and expect a different shape.
- Apple Varieties: These donuts have a subtle apple flavor from the applesauce. For a more intense apple flavor, you could try adding finely diced apples to the batter.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Ina Garten: “Use freshly grated nutmeg for a more vibrant flavor. It makes a big difference in baked goods.”
- Martha Stewart: “Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to enhance the fall spices. It adds warmth and complexity to the flavor.”
- Paul Hollywood: “For an extra-crispy coating, double-dip the donuts in the butter and cinnamon sugar mixture.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A1: Yes, but the donuts may be slightly denser. Use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter texture.
Q2: Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
A2: Yes, substitute with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour for best results.
Q3: What type of applesauce works best?
A3: Unsweetened applesauce is recommended to control the sweetness, but you can use sweetened if you prefer a sweeter donut.
Q4: Can I skip the cinnamon sugar coating?
A4: Absolutely. You could also drizzle a simple glaze over the donuts for a different finish.
Q5: What if I don’t have a donut pan?
A5: You can use a mini muffin pan and make donut holes instead. Adjust the baking time to 8-10 minutes.
Q6: Can I add more spices?
A6: Yes, feel free to add a pinch of ginger or cloves for an extra spiced flavor.
Q7: How many calories are in each donut?
A7: Each donut has approximately 180 kcal.
Q8: Can I use oil instead of butter?
A8: Yes, melted coconut oil or vegetable oil can be used as a substitute for melted butter.
Q9: Can I make the batter in advance?
A9: It’s best to bake the batter right away, but you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.
Q10: Can I add nuts or raisins?
A10: Absolutely! Fold in 1/4 cup of chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor.
These Baked Apple Donuts with a cinnamon sugar coating are a delightful and easy treat that captures the essence of fall. Enjoy baking and sharing them with family and friends!