Cinnamon Apple Donuts Recipe With Baked Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Name: Cinnamon Apple Donuts
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour This forms the base structure of the donuts, providing the necessary gluten for a tender rise; 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar Adds sweetness and helps with browning, creating that irresistible caramelized edge on your apple-cinnamon donuts; 2 teaspoons baking powder Acts as a leavening agent to make the batter rise, ensuring your spiced apple donuts are fluffy and not dense; 1 teaspoon baking soda Works with acidic ingredients like applesauce to produce bubbles, giving extra lift and a soft crumb to the donuts; 1 to 1.5 teaspoons apple pie spice Infuses the donuts with warm, aromatic flavors; 1/2 teaspoon salt (Kosher type) Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor, making the cinnamon apple donuts more vibrant and enjoyable; 1/2 cup (158g) unsweetened applesauce Provides moisture and natural sweetness, incorporating fruit for a healthier twist in these apple-cinnamon donuts; 1/4 cup (60g) olive oil Serves as a neutral fat that keeps the donuts moist and tender, offering a healthier alternative to butter while maintaining great texture; 3/4 cup (180g) milk or almond milk Adds liquid to bind the ingredients, with almond milk recommended for a vegan option to keep the donuts creamy and dairy-free; 1 tablespoon (15g) vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle depth, making your spiced apple donuts taste richer and more inviting; 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled Coats the donuts for the cinnamon sugar to stick; 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar Creates the sweet, crunchy exterior that defines these cinnamon apple doughnuts; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or apple pie spice Adds an extra layer of spice to the topping, echoing the flavors inside for a cohesive spiced apple experience

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Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Donuts

If you’re looking for a fun twist on classic treats, cinnamon apple donuts offer warmth and flavor that make them hard to resist. These spiced apple donuts bring together the cozy taste of fresh apples and cinnamon in a simple baked form, perfect for whipping up on a weekend morning. Not only do they capture the essence of fall baking, but they’re also easy to adapt for different needs, like making them gluten-free or vegan.

One key reason to try these apple-cinnamon donuts is their ease of preparation. With just about 40 minutes from start to finish, including prep and cook time, you can have a batch ready without spending hours in the kitchen. This makes them ideal for busy parents, students, or anyone who wants a quick homemade treat that feels special and straightforward to make.

Ease of preparation: These cinnamon apple donuts come together with basic steps and common ingredients, requiring no advanced tools beyond a bowl and a donut pan. You’ll appreciate how straightforward the recipe is, especially if you’re new to baking, and it takes only 25 minutes for prep and 15 minutes in the oven, letting you enjoy fresh donuts in under an hour.
Health benefits: Packed with applesauce for natural sweetness and moisture, these spiced apple donuts use healthier options like olive oil instead of butter, adding heart-friendly fats and fiber from the fruit. They’re a solid choice for diet-conscious folks, as the recipe supports vegan and gluten-free swaps that boost their wellness appeal without losing that signature cinnamon flavor.
Versatility: Whether you’re adapting for dietary needs or changing up the presentation, cinnamon apple doughnuts flex to fit various lifestyles. Bake them as traditional donuts, mini muffins, or even donut holes, making them great for home cooks, baking enthusiasts, or families with mixed preferences, all while keeping the apple-cinnamon taste intact.
Distinctive flavor: The blend of apple pie spice and fresh apples gives these donuts a unique, comforting taste that stands out from regular sweets. It’s like biting into a warm apple pie, with that spicy warmth from cinnamon and ginger creating a memorable experience that’s perfect for food enthusiasts or anyone craving seasonal vibes.

These features make cinnamon apple donuts a go-to recipe that combines simplicity with delicious results, appealing to a wide audience from newlyweds to seniors looking for enjoyable, easy baking.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon Apple Donuts
2. Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Apple Donuts
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Cinnamon Apple Donuts: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cinnamon Apple Donuts
5. Mastering Cinnamon Apple Donuts: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Cinnamon Apple Donuts: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Apple Donuts
8. Cinnamon Apple Donuts

Essential Ingredients for Cinnamon Apple Donuts

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious cinnamon apple donuts that are fluffy and full of flavor. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of everything needed, including precise measurements and why each one matters. This ensures your spiced apple treats turn out just right every time.

Main Ingredients

2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled – This forms the base structure of the donuts, providing the necessary gluten for a tender rise; for gluten-free, use 296g of a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep the texture light and airy.
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps with browning, creating that irresistible caramelized edge on your apple-cinnamon donuts.
2 teaspoons baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to make the batter rise, ensuring your spiced apple donuts are fluffy and not dense.
1 teaspoon baking soda – Works with acidic ingredients like applesauce to produce bubbles, giving extra lift and a soft crumb to the donuts.
1 to 1.5 teaspoons apple pie spice – Infuses the donuts with warm, aromatic flavors; if making your own, combine 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ginger, 1/4 teaspoon cloves, and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg for that classic spiced apple taste.
1/2 teaspoon salt (Kosher type) – Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor, making the cinnamon apple donuts more vibrant and enjoyable.
1/2 cup (158g) unsweetened applesauce – Provides moisture and natural sweetness, incorporating fruit for a healthier twist in these apple-cinnamon donuts.
1/4 cup (60g) olive oil – Serves as a neutral fat that keeps the donuts moist and tender, offering a healthier alternative to butter while maintaining great texture.
3/4 cup (180g) milk or almond milk – Adds liquid to bind the ingredients, with almond milk recommended for a vegan option to keep the donuts creamy and dairy-free.
1 tablespoon (15g) vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle depth, making your spiced apple donuts taste richer and more inviting.

Topping Ingredients

4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled – Coats the donuts for the cinnamon sugar to stick, with a plant-based butter substitute for vegan versions to preserve that buttery finish.
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar – Creates the sweet, crunchy exterior that defines these cinnamon apple doughnuts.
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon or apple pie spice – Adds an extra layer of spice to the topping, echoing the flavors inside for a cohesive spiced apple experience.

Special Dietary Options

For those with specific needs, here are clear alternatives to customize your apple-cinnamon donuts:

Vegan: Swap dairy milk with unsweetened almond milk and use plant-based butter for the topping, ensuring the entire recipe remains free from animal products while keeping the spiced apple treats moist and flavorful.
Gluten-free: Replace all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend measured at 296g, which helps maintain the structure and texture of these cinnamon apple donuts.
Low-calorie: Opt for reduced-sugar alternatives in the batter and topping, or use less oil and more applesauce to cut calories without sacrificing the essence of your spiced apple donuts.

These choices make it simple to adapt the recipe, drawing from similar fruit-based recipes on the site for inspiration.

How to Prepare the Perfect Cinnamon Apple Donuts: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating cinnamon apple donuts at home is a rewarding process that results in warm, spiced treats ready in just 40 minutes. This guide walks you through each step, incorporating tips for dietary adaptations like vegan or gluten-free options. Start with fresh ingredients and follow along for delicious apple-cinnamon donuts that everyone will love.

First Step: Preheat and Prep

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and greasing two donut pans with butter or baking spray. This step ensures your pans are ready to prevent sticking, and for vegan adaptations, use plant-based butter here. Measuring out all dry ingredients first helps streamline the process, making it easy for busy parents or working professionals to manage.

Second Step: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 to 1.5 teaspoons apple pie spice, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. For gluten-free cinnamon apple donuts, swap the flour with 296g of a 1:1 gluten-free blend at this stage to keep the batter light. This mixture forms the base, ensuring even distribution of flavors for your spiced apple donuts.

Third Step: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk 1/2 cup (158g) unsweetened applesauce, 1/4 cup (60g) olive oil, 3/4 cup (180g) milk or almond milk, and 1 tablespoon (15g) vanilla extract until smooth. If making vegan apple-cinnamon donuts, use almond milk to avoid dairy, which keeps the batter creamy. This step blends the moisture and flavors, so fold gently to maintain a tender texture in your final spiced apple treats.

Fourth Step: Fold and Transfer Batter

Fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones until just combined, avoiding overmixing to prevent dense cinnamon apple donuts. For low-calorie variations, reduce the oil slightly here and add more applesauce. Transfer the batter to a pastry bag or a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off, then pipe it into the greased donut pans, filling each nearly to the top for even baking.

Fifth Step: Bake the Donuts

Bake the donuts for 10-12 minutes until they’re golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. If adapting for mini muffins, reduce baking time to 9-11 minutes at the same temperature. This step is crucial for gluten-free or vegan versions, as watching closely ensures they don’t overbake and lose their moist, spiced apple appeal.

Sixth Step: Cool and Add Topping

Cool the donuts in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack for about 15 minutes. Dip each in 4 tablespoons (57g) of melted unsalted butter (or plant-based for vegan), then roll in a mixture of 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. For low-calorie tweaks, use less sugar in the topping to keep your cinnamon apple donuts light while maintaining that crunchy finish.

Final Step: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the donuts warm for the best taste, pairing them with coffee or tea for a cozy meal. If troubleshooting, check for soggy centers by ensuring applesauce isn’t too wet adjust milk if needed. This completes your spiced apple donuts, ready for dietary tweaks and offering a simple way to enjoy homemade baked goods.

For more baking ideas, see this related recipe that pairs well with fruit flavors.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Cinnamon Apple Donuts

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

When tweaking the main elements of cinnamon apple donuts, consider swapping binding agents for better dietary fit. For instance, if eggs aren’t an option, use flax eggs as a replacer to maintain structure in your apple-cinnamon donuts. Different flours, like almond flour instead of all-purpose, can add protein and a nutty flavor, but adjust ratios to 1:1 to avoid dense results in your spiced apple treats.

Switching fats is another easy change; opt for coconut oil in place of olive oil for a tropical twist, which keeps the donuts moist while impacting flavor subtly. These swaps help with texture, ensuring your cinnamon apple doughnuts remain light and airy even with gluten-free adaptations.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

For fruits and seasonings, try different apple varieties like Granny Smith in your spiced apple donuts for a tart contrast that enhances the cinnamon kick. You could also add dried fruit or nut butters for extra depth, swapping applesauce with mashed bananas to change the moisture level and introduce a new flavor profile.

Experiment with sweeteners, such as honey instead of granulated sugar, but reduce the amount slightly to balance sweetness in cinnamon apple donuts. Spice blends can vary too; use a custom mix of cinnamon and nutmeg to personalize your apple-cinnamon donuts without overpowering the taste.

Mastering Cinnamon Apple Donuts: Advanced Tips and Variations

To elevate your cinnamon apple donuts beyond the basics, focus on pro techniques like managing moisture from apples by grating them finely, which helps prevent soggy centers. Even baking is key, so rotate your pans midway through for uniform results in these spiced apple treats. Resting the batter for 10 minutes can improve texture, allowing flavors to meld for tastier apple-cinnamon donuts.

For flavor variations, try adding nuts or citrus zest to the batter for a crunchy twist on your cinnamon apple doughnuts. A caramel swirl or cider reduction can enhance the spiced apple notes, making them feel gourmet while staying simple. Presentation tips include garnishing with fresh apple slices or pairing with a light sauce, perfect for food enthusiasts hosting events.

Make-ahead options are great for busy schedules; prep the batter ahead and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or freeze baked donuts for quick reheating. For the best results, thaw and warm in a 350°F oven to retain that fresh-baked feel in your spiced apple donuts. Learn more about apple pie spice variations to refine your recipes.

How to Store Cinnamon Apple Donuts: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your cinnamon apple donuts fresh and tasty, extending their enjoyment beyond baking day. For short-term needs, store them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they’ll stay soft for 1-2 days. This method preserves the spiced apple flavor without drying out the treats.

Freezing is ideal for longer storage; wrap each donut individually and place in a freezer bag for up to a month, ensuring toppings like cinnamon sugar stay intact. Thaw at room temperature before serving to maintain the moist texture of your apple-cinnamon donuts.

Reheating options include using an oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore warmth, or a microwave for quick results, but avoid overdoing it to keep the spiced apple donuts from becoming tough. For meal prep, batch cook and portion them for grab-and-go, labeling with dates for freshness. Check out gluten-free baking tips for more storage ideas.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Cinnamon Apple Donuts

How do I make cinnamon apple donuts from scratch at home?

To make cinnamon apple donuts, start by combining flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix eggs, milk, applesauce, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ones until just combined. Fold in finely chopped apples for extra texture. Spoon the batter into a greased donut pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. After baking, dip the warm donuts in melted butter and then coat them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for the classic finish.

Can I use fresh apples instead of applesauce for cinnamon apple donuts?

Yes, fresh apples can be used, but it’s best to finely chop or grate them to maintain moisture without making the batter too wet. Using fresh apples adds a crisp texture and a fresh fruit flavor, but you may need to reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe slightly to compensate. Applesauce contributes moisture and sweetness, so if substituting entirely with fresh apples, consider adding a bit more sugar or liquid to balance the recipe.

How should I store leftover cinnamon apple donuts to keep them fresh?

Store leftover cinnamon apple donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain softness and flavor. Avoid refrigerating, as this can dry them out. If you want to keep them longer, wrap each donut individually and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and warm briefly in the microwave or oven to regain their soft texture.

Are cinnamon apple donuts a healthy dessert option?

Cinnamon apple donuts can be a moderately healthier dessert compared to traditional fried donuts, especially when baked and made with applesauce instead of oil or butter. Apples provide fiber and natural sweetness, while cinnamon adds antioxidants. However, they still contain sugar and flour, so they’re best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Can I make cinnamon apple donuts gluten-free or vegan?

Yes, to make cinnamon apple donuts gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. For a vegan version, use flax eggs or a chia seed mixture instead of eggs, plant-based milk instead of dairy milk, and replace butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Baking times may vary slightly, so watch the donuts closely to avoid overbaking.

Baked Apple Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating Recipe