Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts

$- 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy) - 1 large egg (at room temperature) - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted) - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 medium apple (peeled and diced) - Optional: Cinnamon sugar for topping When you make these apple cinnamon baked donuts, you need a few basic items. The main ingredient is all-purpose flour, which gives the donuts their structure. You will also want granulated sugar to sweeten the donuts. Baking powder and baking soda help them rise. Don’t forget the salt, as it enhances all the flavors. Cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and spice. Applesauce keeps the donuts moist and adds flavor. The milk can be dairy or non-dairy, depending on your preference. A large egg binds everything together, while melted butter adds richness. Vanilla extract adds a nice touch of sweetness, and diced apples give a burst of flavor in every bite. Optionally, you can make cinnamon sugar by mixing granulated sugar with ground cinnamon. This adds a sweet and spicy crunch to your donuts. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating soft, tasty treats that everyone will love. - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease the donut pan. - In a large bowl, combine: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg - Whisk until the mix is even. - In another bowl, blend: - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce - 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy) - 1 large egg - 2 tablespoons melted butter - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - Stir until smooth. - Pour the wet mix into the dry mix. - Fold gently with a spatula until just combined. - Some lumps are okay; do not overmix. - Fold in 1 medium diced apple. - Fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full with batter. - Bake for 12-15 minutes. - A toothpick should come out clean when done. - Cool in the pan for 5 minutes. - Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. - Avoid overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. This keeps your donuts light and fluffy. - Recommended apples for flavor: Use Granny Smith apples. Their tartness adds a nice balance to the sweetness. - Use a toothpick for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, your donuts are ready. - Ensure even oven temperature: Place your donut pan in the center. This helps them bake evenly without hot spots. - Dusting options and plating ideas: Consider rolling warm donuts in cinnamon sugar. Present them on a pretty plate for a lovely look. - Beverage pairings: Enjoy your donuts with coffee or tea. They complement the flavors and enhance your snack time. {{image_4}} You can easily change the taste of your donuts. Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans gives a nice crunch. You can also mix in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. Both options add unique flavors and textures. For those with dietary needs, you can make these donuts gluten-free. Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. If you want them dairy-free, swap milk with a plant-based option like almond or oat milk. You can make these donuts special for each season. In fall, try adding pumpkin spice for a warm flavor. During spring, adding citrus zest like lemon or orange can brighten the donuts and give a fresh twist. Store your apple cinnamon baked donuts in an airtight container. Keep them at room temperature. This way, they stay fresh and tasty for a few days. If you notice they become dry, a slice of bread in the container can help maintain moisture. For long-term storage, you can freeze the donuts. Wrap each donut in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. This keeps them from getting freezer burn. To reheat, just take a donut out and let it thaw. You can warm it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. These donuts stay fresh for about 3-5 days at room temperature. If frozen, they can last for up to 3 months. Just remember to check for any signs of freezer burn before eating. Enjoy these sweet treats anytime! Yes, you can use store-bought applesauce. It saves time and is easy to find. However, homemade applesauce may taste fresher and have better flavor. When you use store-bought, check the label for added sugars or preservatives. Go for unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option. It keeps the balance of sweetness in your baked donuts. To make these donuts healthier, you can swap some ingredients. - Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. - Substitute less sugar with mashed bananas or applesauce. - Replace butter with coconut oil or applesauce for moisture. These changes can lower fat and sugar levels while keeping the taste great. If you don’t have a donut pan, don’t worry! You can still bake these donuts. - Use a muffin pan instead. - Fill each cup halfway with batter. - Bake for a few extra minutes. You’ll get delicious donut holes instead of rings. You can tell when the donuts are done by checking the tops. They should look golden brown. Insert a toothpick into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, they are ready. They should feel springy to the touch. Avoid overbaking, or they may become dry. You can make delicious apple cinnamon donuts with simple ingredients. We covered everything from mixing dry and wet elements to baking tips and storage. Each step ensures your donuts have a great taste and texture. You also learned fun ideas for variations and how to make them suit your diet. Enjoy baking these treats, share them with others, and make the kitchen a joyful place. Happy baking!$

Indulge in the warmth of homemade Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts! These easy-to-make treats feature the perfect blend of apples and comforting spices, baked to golden perfection. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a deliciously moist donut topped with optional cinnamon sugar for added sweetness. Click through to discover the full recipe and bring the delightful aroma of freshly baked donuts right into your kitchen!

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Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)

1 large egg, at room temperature

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 medium apple, peeled and diced (preferably Granny Smith for a tart flavor)

Optional: Cinnamon sugar for topping (mix 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray or brush with melted butter for easy removal.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed by whisking thoroughly.

In a separate mixing bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, milk, large egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.

Pour the wet ingredient mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold the ingredients together using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined, being careful not to overmix. It's okay if some lumps remain in the batter.

Carefully fold in the diced apple pieces, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter for a delicious fruity flavor in every bite.

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each cavity of the prepared donut pan about 2/3 full with the batter. Aim for even distribution for consistent baking.

Place the donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The donuts are done when a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean and the tops are lightly golden.

After baking, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely, ensuring they don’t become soggy.

(Optional) While the donuts are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to add a delightful sweet and spicy crunch to the outside.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12 donuts

- Presentation Tips: Arrange the donuts on a decorative platter, lightly dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with a simple icing made from powdered sugar mixed with a splash of milk for extra sweetness. Pair with your favorite hot beverage, such as coffee or tea, for a cozy treat! Enjoy the delightful aroma and taste of these apple cinnamon gems!