Name: Baked Apple Donuts
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 42 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cup diced gala apples (about 2-3 medium apples); 1 ½ tbsp salted butter (for filling); 3 tbsp brown sugar (for filling); 1 tsp apple pie spice (for filling); 1 tbsp all purpose flour (for filling); 1 ½ cups all purpose flour (for donuts); 1 ½ tsp baking powder (for donuts); ½ tsp baking soda (for donuts); ¾ cup brown sugar (for donuts); 2 eggs (for donuts); ¾ cup low fat buttermilk (for donuts); 3 tbsp salted butter, melted (for donuts); 1 tsp vanilla extract (for donuts); 1 tsp apple pie spice (for donuts); ¼ cup white granulated sugar (for topping); 1 tbsp cinnamon (for topping); 2 tbsp salted butter, melted (for topping)

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Introduction to Baked Apple Donuts

Welcome to the delicious world of baked apple donuts! As a passionate home cook, I know how hectic life can be. Between school drop-offs and work meetings, it seems like there’s never a moment to spare. That’s why I adore this easy recipe—it’s a quick solution for busy mornings or a sweet treat to impress your loved ones. Picture warm, spiced apple filling tucked inside soft, fluffy donuts, topped with a buttery cinnamon sugar coating. Your family will be asking for seconds, and it will take less than an hour from start to finish!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Apple Donuts

You’re going to absolutely love these baked apple donuts! They’re not just quick to make, but they bring the warmth of home-baked goodness right to your breakfast table. With their delightful apple filling and cinnamon sugar topping, each bite feels like a hug. Plus, there’s no frying involved, meaning a healthier treat for you and your family. Perfect for busy mornings or a cozy afternoon snack!

Ingredients for Baked Apple Donuts

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Let’s take a look at what you’ll need for these delightful baked apple donuts. Remember, the exact quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy reference.

Apples: I recommend using gala apples for their sweetness and flavor. You can swap for other types, like Fuji or Honeycrisp, if you prefer.
Salted Butter: This adds richness to both the filling and donut batter. If you’re out, unsalted butter works, but you may want to add a pinch of salt.
Brown Sugar: It gives that lovely caramel flavor in your filling and donuts. You can substitute with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
Apple Pie Spice: A cozy blend of spices that brings warmth to the recipe! If you don’t have it, mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice for a homemade version.
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure—provides the perfect base for both the donuts and the filling. If gluten is an issue, try a gluten-free flour blend.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents ensure your donuts rise just right, creating that fluffy texture we all love.
Eggs: Bind the batter and add richness. For an egg-less version, use flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce.
Low-Fat Buttermilk: Adds moisture and flavor, making your donuts tender. You can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a splash of vinegar.
Vanilla Extract: Enhances all the flavors, giving depth to your baked apple donuts.
Cinnamon Sugar (for topping): A flavorful blend of sugar and cinnamon, which adds that sought-after sweet crunch to each bite. You can adjust the cinnamon according to your taste!

With these ingredients at the ready, you’re all set to create a warm, indulgent batch of baked apple donuts. Trust me, your family will thank you for it!

How to Make Baked Apple Donuts

Now that you have your ingredients, let’s dive into the heart of this recipe! Making baked apple donuts is a delightful experience, and I’m excited to share each step with you. Just think of how wonderful your kitchen will smell while these are baking!

Step 1: Preparing the Apple Pie Filling

First things first, let’s get those apples ready. Start by peeling and coring the gala apples. It’s like stripping away their fancy coats to reveal the delicious treasures inside. Then, dice them into small chunks; this ensures the filling will be sweet and softened in every bite.

Step 2: Cooking the Apple Mixture

Next, grab a medium saucepan and place it over medium heat. Melt the salted butter in the pan, letting it bubble as it warms up. Add in the brown sugar and stir until well combined. Toss in the diced apples alongside the apple pie spice. Cover the pot, reducing the heat to medium-low. Stir every few minutes, allowing the apples to soften and become aromatic, like a hug that wraps around you.

Step 3: Prepping the Donut Batter

While the apple mixture cools, it’s time to whip up the donut batter! In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, brown sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to blend everything smoothly. In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and the remaining apple pie spice. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined—overmixing can lead to donuts that resemble bricks!

Step 4: Incorporating the Apple Filling

Now, let’s mix the cooled apple pie filling into our donut batter. Gently fold the apples into the batter using a spatula. This part is my favorite, as you can see the transformation from plain batter to something truly special. The apples should be evenly distributed throughout, ready to bring joy in each bite!

Step 5: Filling the Donut Pan

Next up, let’s get that donut pan greased and ready for action. A piping bag makes filling the donut cups much easier, so grab one if you have it. Transfer the batter into the piping bag and snip off the end. Carefully squeeze the batter into each donut cup, filling them about ¾ full—don’t worry, they’ll rise as they bake!

Step 6: Baking the Donuts

Now, preheat your oven to 350℉ and pop the filled donut pan inside. Bake for 11-12 minutes, but keep an eye on them. When they’re done, they’ll bounce back lightly if touched, and a toothpick inserted should come out clean. This is the moment when your kitchen transforms into a cozy bakery!

Step 7: Adding the Cinnamon Sugar Topping

The best part is here! Remove the donuts from the oven and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. In a shallow bowl, mix together the white granulated sugar and cinnamon. Brush the top of each donut with melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This creates that irresistible crunchy topping that makes baked apple donuts a delight!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients ahead of time to streamline the baking process.
Ensure your apple filling is cool before mixing it into the batter.
Greasing the donut pan well will prevent sticking.
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Experiment with spices to customize your flavor—add a pinch of nutmeg for a twist!

Equipment Needed

Donut Pan: A standard 12-cup donut pan works best. If you don’t have one, a muffin tin can be used, but you’ll have more cake-like treats.
Mixing Bowls: Use at least two—one for wet ingredients and one for dry.
Piping Bag: Handy for filling the donut cups. If you don’t have one, a zip-top bag with the corner cut off works great!
Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients; a fork can work in a pinch.
Spatula: Perfect for folding ingredients gently without deflating the batter.

Variations

Spiced Pumpkin Apple Donuts: Add pumpkin puree to the batter for a fall twist, and swap apple pie spice with pumpkin pie spice.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend that measures 1:1 to replace the all-purpose flour for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
Vegan Delight: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use almond milk in place of buttermilk for a dairy-free treat.
Nutty Apple Donuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
Fruity Twist: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins with the apple filling for a burst of sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Coffee or Tea: Pair these delightful baked apple donuts with a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai for the ultimate treat.
Fruit Salad: Serve with a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness and add a refreshing crunch.
Presentation: Arrange donuts on a beautiful platter, dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an indulgent experience.

FAQs about Baked Apple Donuts

Can I make these baked apple donuts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the batter and the apple filling a day in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let the filling come to room temperature before mixing it into the batter.

How do I store leftover baked apple donuts?

These delightful baked apple donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2-3 days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge, but they might lose a bit of their fluffy texture!

Can I freeze baked apple donuts?

You can indeed freeze them! Just make sure they’re completely cooled down first. Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they’ll last up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and warm them up in the oven.

What other toppings can I use besides cinnamon sugar?

The options are endless! You could dip them in a sweet glaze, sprinkle with chopped nuts, or even drizzle some caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent treat.

Are baked apple donuts healthy?

While they are a delicious treat, it’s all about balance! These baked apple donuts have less fat than their fried counterparts, and using fresh apples adds fiber and vitamins. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of baked apple donuts wafting through your kitchen. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a warm invitation to gather around the table with family and friends. Whether enjoyed for breakfast or as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up, these donuts bring smiles with every bite. They capture the cozy essence of home, reminding us to take a moment amid our busy lives. So roll up your sleeves, and indulge in this delightful experience! You’re not just making donuts; you’re creating moments filled with love, laughter, and joy.