Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts (No Fry)

If you’re craving something sweet, cozy, and absolutely bursting with flavor, these Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts (No Fry) are here to satisfy that craving without the mess of frying. Imagine soft, tender donuts infused with warm cinnamon and juicy bits of apple, all baked to perfection in your oven. These treats are perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a comforting dessert. Plus, they’re simple to whip up with pantry staples, making them a fantastic option when you want something homemade but fuss-free.

The Upside of Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts (No Fry)

One of the best things about these Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts (No Fry) is that they’re baked, not fried, which means less oil and less cleanup but all the delightful flavor and texture of classic donuts. The use of applesauce adds natural sweetness and moisture, keeping the donuts soft and tender. The cinnamon pairs beautifully with the fresh chopped apples, creating a warm, inviting taste that’s perfect for any season, especially fall.

Not only are these donuts delicious, but they’re also quick to prepare and perfect for sharing with family or friends. They’re a great alternative to traditional donuts, offering a slightly healthier option without sacrificing taste. If you love easy, flavorful baked goods, this recipe is a must-try.

What You’ll Need

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped apples
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

Cook’s Kit

• Donut pan – essential for shaping and baking these donuts perfectly
• Mixing bowls – one for dry ingredients, one for wet
• Whisk or electric mixer – to blend the batter smoothly
• Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts
• Small knife and cutting board – to chop your apples
• Cooling rack – to cool donuts evenly after baking

From Start to Finish: Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts (No Fry)

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease your donut pan with vegetable oil or a non-stick spray. Chop half a cup of apples into small, bite-sized pieces. This will add bursts of fresh apple flavor inside your donuts.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. This combination ensures your donuts rise nicely while having that perfect cinnamon kick.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. The applesauce adds moisture and natural sweetness, while the egg and oil help bind everything together.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix — a few lumps are okay! Gently fold in the chopped apples for that fresh fruit texture.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. This gives the donuts enough room to rise without spilling over.

Step 6: Bake and Cool

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the donuts comes out clean. Once baked, remove the donuts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Cinnamon Sugar Topping

While the donuts are cooling, mix together 1/4 cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. Lightly brush or spray the warm donuts with a bit of vegetable oil or melted butter, then dip each donut into the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat. This adds a sweet, crunchy finish that perfectly complements the soft donut.

No-Store Runs Needed

• All-purpose flour is a kitchen staple you likely have on hand.
• Granulated sugar, baking powder, and baking soda are common baking essentials.
• Unsweetened applesauce is often found in your pantry or fridge.
• Vegetable oil and vanilla extract are standard ingredients for many recipes.
• Fresh apples can be swapped with any apples you already have at home.

Mistakes That Ruin Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts (No Fry)

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense, tough donuts instead of light and fluffy ones.
• Using too much applesauce: While applesauce adds moisture, too much can make the batter too wet and affect the texture.
• Not prepping the donut pan well: If the pan isn’t greased properly, donuts may stick and break apart when trying to remove them.
• Skipping the cinnamon sugar topping: The topping adds a wonderful flavor and texture contrast that really elevates the donuts.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store your Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts (No Fry) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm the donuts in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or until soft and warm. For a crispier exterior, you can also heat them in a toaster oven for a few minutes. Don’t forget to sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top if desired after reheating!

Handy Q&A

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser and the flavor slightly nuttier. You might want to use a mix of half all-purpose and half whole wheat to keep the donuts light.

What kind of apples work best for these donuts?

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal because they hold their shape during baking and provide a nice tart balance to the sweetness of the donuts.

Can I make these donuts vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and swap the vegetable oil for a neutral oil like canola or melted coconut oil. Also, ensure the sugar you use is vegan-friendly.

How do I prevent the chopped apples from sinking to the bottom?

Coat the chopped apples lightly in flour before folding them into the batter. This helps suspend them evenly throughout the donuts as they bake.

Don’t Miss These

• For more apple-inspired treats, try the Apple Walnut Streusel Muffins, a cozy baked good packed with texture and flavor.
• If you love cinnamon sugar combos, the Maple Cinnamon Sugar Cookies are a sweet and simple cookie option worth baking.

See You at the Table

There’s something so comforting about the aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through the kitchen, and these Apple Cinnamon Baked Donuts (No Fry) bring that magic straight to your home. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones over coffee or enjoying one quietly with a book, these donuts are a reminder that simple ingredients can create something truly special. So grab your donut pan, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a baking experience that’s as delicious as it is easy. Your next favorite treat awaits!

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