Baked Apple Donuts

Baked apple donuts are the coziest treat whenever I crave something sweet but fuss-free. These come together without a mixer and fill the whole kitchen with the scent of apples and cinnamon. Since they are baked not fried they are lighter too and perfect as breakfast or an afternoon snack with tea.

I made these first for a Sunday brunch after apple picking and my family devoured the whole batch in one morning. Now they are my go-to for chilly days and always disappear fast.

Gather Your Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: Delivers structure and a delicate crumb use fresh and sifted for best results
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the donuts brown opt for fine white sugar
• Baking powder: Ensures the donuts rise use fresh for good lift
• Salt: Balances sweetness just a pinch brings out the flavors
• Ground cinnamon: Warms up each bite choose a fragrant kind for full flavor
• Unsalted butter: Melted for tenderness and a rich base pick high-quality butter
• Egg: Binds the batter adds richness pick a fresh large egg
• Applesauce: The secret to moist donuts unsweetened is best for control over sweetness
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and aroma a good real extract makes a difference
• Optional toppings: Cinnamon sugar or glaze for sweet crunch or shine choose pure ground cinnamon or your favorite glaze recipe

How to Make It

Prepare the Donut Pan:

Grease your donut pan generously with butter or use a nonstick spray making sure to coat every nook so the donuts release easily after baking

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl whisk together the flour sugar baking powder salt and cinnamon making sure all are evenly distributed this will ensure tender even donuts

Mix Wet Ingredients:

In a separate bowl whisk together cooled melted butter applesauce egg and vanilla extract stir until everything combines into a smooth mixture this helps avoid overmixing later

Combine Wet and Dry:

Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients gently fold with a spatula just until no streaks of flour remain the batter should look thick and even do not overmix or the donuts may turn dense

Fill the Donut Pan:

Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared donut pan filling each cavity about two thirds full for even baking tap the pan lightly on the counter to settle the batter

Bake to Perfection:

Place pan in the preheated 350 degree oven bake for eighteen minutes until golden and a toothpick comes out clean do not overbake or they will dry out

Cool and Finish:

Let the donuts rest in the pan for five minutes then carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool if you want an extra treat toss warm donuts in cinnamon sugar or wait until fully cool before glazing

My favorite part of these donuts is always that first bite with the warm scent of cinnamon apples filling the air. My little one loves helping dip each donut in cinnamon sugar while still warm which has become its own kitchen tradition.

Flavor Boosters

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness pop them in the fridge and bring them back to room temp or warm lightly before eating. These donuts freeze well individually wrapped add a quick zap in the microwave for a fresh out of the oven treat any time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these with coffee or spiced chai for breakfast or brunch. Dress them up with a simple vanilla glaze or drizzle with salted caramel for dessert. Add a scattering of finely chopped toasted nuts for a grown up touch.

Creative Twists

If you do not have applesauce use finely grated apple instead just be sure to squeeze out any excess liquid. For a dairy free version use a plant based butter. You can also swap in half whole wheat flour for a heartier version though they will be more dense. Try using pumpkin puree for an autumn twist. Swap cinnamon for apple pie spice or pumpkin spice blend. Top with maple glaze for a cozy winter version.

Bake a batch of these donuts ahead and freeze for the fastest treat. I hope you enjoy every warm cozy bite as much as my family does!

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What makes these donuts moist and tender?

Applesauce not only provides apple flavor but also keeps the donuts moist and tender during baking.

→ Can I substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a denser texture and a nuttier flavor. Consider mixing half whole wheat and half all-purpose for balance.

→ How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?

Grease your donut pan well with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy release after baking.

→ What toppings work well for these donuts?

Classic cinnamon sugar, vanilla glaze, or a drizzle of caramel are all excellent options for added sweetness and flavor.

→ Can the baked donuts be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can make them ahead. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or freeze for longer storage.