Delicious Apple Donuts
These homemade apple donuts are soft, spiced, and packed with fresh apple flavor. Perfectly baked for a light, fluffy texture and enhanced with warm cinnamon and nutmeg.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Donut Pan
- Oven
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Forms the base for the donuts, providing structure
- 1 tsp baking powder Helps the donuts rise and stay fluffy
- 1/2 tsp baking soda Works with the acid in applesauce for a light texture
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon Adds a warm, comforting spice
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg Enhances the depth of flavor
- 1/2 tsp salt Balances sweetness and enhances taste
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar Sweetens and helps create a soft texture
- 1/4 cup brown sugar Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce Replaces some fat while adding moisture and flavor
- 1/4 cup milk Keeps the batter smooth and light
- 2 tbsp melted butter Adds richness and helps with tenderness
- 1 tsp vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor with a warm aroma
Add-Ins
- 1 cup peeled, finely chopped apples Provides bursts of apple flavor in every bite
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well mixed.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the chopped apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Fill each cavity of the donut pan about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a cinnamon glaze for extra sweetness.
Notes
For added crunch, top with a cinnamon-sugar coating. These donuts store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days or can be frozen for longer freshness.