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Freshly baked apple donuts with cinnamon, served on a rustic plate

Baked Apple Donuts

Delicious and moist baked apple donuts infused with warm spices, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Course: Breakfast, Snack
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour For gluten-free options, try a 1:1 blend.
  • 1 cup sugar Coconut or brown sugar can offer different flavors.
  • 2 tsp baking powder Ensure it is fresh for best results.
  • 1 tsp baking soda Adds to the leavening action; do not skip.
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon Nutmeg can also create a lovely depth.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Can be reduced if following a low-sodium diet.
Wet Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce Homemade applesauce is a fun alternative.
  • 1/2 cup milk Almond or oat milk are great dairy-free options.
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil Substitute with melted coconut oil if desired.
  • 2 large eggs Flax eggs can work for a vegan version.
Add-ins
  • 1 cup diced fresh apples Gala or Honeycrisp apples provide the best flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients: applesauce, milk, vegetable oil, and eggs until well combined.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the diced apples gently.
  5. Fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full with the batter. Avoid overfilling for perfectly baked donuts.
Baking
  1. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Allow to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.
Serving
  1. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar before serving for an added touch of sweetness.

Notes

Overmixing can result in dense donuts; stir until just combined. Allow them to cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.