Name: Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze: A Cozy Fall Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 cup All-Purpose Flour (or gluten-free flour blend); 1/2 cup Sugar (brown sugar can be used); 1 tbsp Baking Powder; 1/2 tsp Baking Soda; 1 tbsp Cinnamon (or pumpkin pie spice); 1/4 tsp Nutmeg (freshly grated is best); 1/2 tsp Salt; 1 cup Buttermilk (or milk with lemon juice/vinegar); 2 Eggs (or flax eggs for vegan); 1/4 cup Melted Butter (or coconut oil for dairy-free); 1 cup Chopped Apples (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith); 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 2 tbsp Milk (or almond milk for dairy-free); 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (or almond extract)

The kitchen filled with the warm scent of cinnamon and nutmeg has an uncanny way of pulling you in, doesn’t it? I can almost hear the delightful crunch as I take a bite of these Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze. What makes them even more special is their delicious twist—they are baked instead of fried, making for a healthier option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Imagine serving these delightful treats, topped with a sweet cinnamon-sugar glaze, at your next brunch gathering or enjoying them as a cozy afternoon snack. Plus, with a gluten-free version available, they cater to everyone at your table. Are you ready to indulge in these fall-inspired delights? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Are Baked Apple Donuts a Must-Make?

Irresistible Flavors: The combination of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg brings an autumnal aroma you’ll adore. Healthier Choice: Baked instead of fried, these donuts offer a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on taste. Versatile Options: Whether you’re craving gluten-free or seasonal swaps like pears or pumpkin, this recipe has you covered. Quick & Easy: Just mix, bake, and enjoy—no fuss involved! Perfect for Sharing: Serve them at brunch or enjoy with loved ones; their crowd-pleasing taste makes them an instant favorite.

Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze Ingredients

For the Donuts
• All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free options.
• Sugar – Adds sweetness; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
• Baking Powder – Helps the donuts rise, creating a light texture.
• Baking Soda – Works with the buttermilk for proper leavening.
• Cinnamon – Infuses warm spice into the mix; substitute with pumpkin pie spice for a festive twist.
• Nutmeg – Enhances the flavor profile; freshest when grated yourself.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and boosts overall flavor.
• Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tang; replace with regular milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar if needed.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients for richness; use flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
• Melted Butter – Enhances moisture and flavor; coconut oil offers a dairy-free option.
• Chopped Apples – Bring natural sweetness and texture; Honeycrisp or Granny Smith are best for flavor.

For the Glaze
• Powdered Sugar – Essential for sweetness and a smooth texture in your glaze.
• Milk – Thins the glaze to your desired consistency; almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option.
• Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the glaze; consider almond extract for a delightful variation.

These Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze will not only tantalize your taste buds but may also become the star of your fall gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a moment to grease a donut pan lightly with cooking spray or melted butter. This will help ensure that your baked apple donuts release easily once they’re done baking, maintaining their delightful shape and texture.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure the dry ingredients are well combined to create a uniform texture. This mixture will serve as the foundation for your Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze, providing them with the perfect warm flavor and fluffy crumb.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. You want to ensure that these wet ingredients are completely blended, creating a creamy mixture that will add richness to your donuts. Take a moment to admire how the ingredients blend together beautifully, ready to bring moisture to your batter.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to dense donuts. Once just combined, carefully fold in the chopped apples, letting the delicious fruit integrate throughout the batter, infusing every bite with natural sweetness.

Step 5: Fill & Bake
Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. This allows enough room for the donuts to rise beautifully while baking. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The donuts will rise and take on a lovely golden hue.

Step 6: Cool the Donuts
Once baked, remove the donut pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes on a wire rack. After they’ve cooled slightly, gently remove each donut from the pan and allow them to cool completely. This step is crucial before glazing, as a hot donut could melt the glaze, ruining that perfect finish.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust the milk as needed until the glaze reaches your desired thickness. This velvety glaze will give your baked apple donuts an irresistible sweet finish, creating that cozy fall treat appeal.

Step 8: Glaze the Donuts
Once the donuts have cooled completely, dip the tops into the prepared glaze, allowing the excess to drip back into the bowl. Place the glazed donuts on a wire rack or a sheet of parchment paper to set. Watch as the glaze firms up, creating a beautiful, shiny finish that enhances the tempting appearance of your baked apple donuts with glaze.

What to Serve with Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze

Picture this: a cozy brunch gathering where every bite is a delightful surprise, igniting warmth and nostalgia in each guest’s heart.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of glazed donuts, adding a refreshing crunch alongside each bite.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layered with granola and fresh berries, this dish complements the rich flavors of the donuts while adding a creamy texture.
Warm Apple Cider: Infused with spices, this drink evokes the essence of fall and pairs flawlessly with the apple donuts, enhancing their flavor.
Cinnamon-Spiced Coffee: The robust flavors of cinnamon coffee perfectly mirror the spices in the donuts, making each sip a comfort.
Maple Pecan Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy delight contrasts beautifully with the warmth of the donuts, providing a sweet, nutty finish.
Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some homemade or store-bought granola over the donuts for an added crunch that complements their soft texture.

Every option invites smiles and second helpings—perfect for making memories around the table with loved ones.

Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity with these delightful baked treats. Each variation opens a new door to flavor and texture!

Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these delicious donuts accessible to everyone at your table.
Dairy-Free: Swap the buttermilk for almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice to create a dairy-free delight.
Flavor Twist: Experiment with ginger or cardamom for a unique spice profile that adds warmth and character.
Fruit Swap: Replace chopped apples with pears or pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist that celebrates fall flavors.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for an added crunch that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of apple.
Maple Glaze: Alternate the glaze with pure maple syrup to infuse a wonderfully rich flavor that screams autumn.
Sweetening Alternatives: Use brown sugar instead of regular sugar to achieve a deeper, caramel-like sweetness in every bite.
Fruity Glaze: Blend in apple cider or a splash of orange juice to your glaze for a fruity kick that enhances the overall flavor.

As you customize your Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze, consider pairing them with a steaming cup of coffee, or why not indulge in a slice of Apple Crumble Cheesecake for dessert? Enjoy your baking adventures!

How to Store and Freeze Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze

Room Temperature: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious for your snacking pleasure.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. This way, you can savor Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze anytime!

Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the frozen donuts at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating: If you prefer warm donuts, gently heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will bring back that freshly baked goodness without making them too dry.

Expert Tips for Baked Apple Donuts

Avoid Overmixing: Keep your donuts light and fluffy by mixing just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense baked apple donuts.

Donut Pan Usage: For best results, always use a donut pan. While a muffin tin can work, it changes the texture and shape of the donuts.

Cool Before Glazing: Let the donuts cool slightly after baking to prevent the glaze from melting off. A few minutes will make a big difference!

Apple Selection: Choose Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples for optimal sweetness and flavor. Their natural juiciness elevates your baked apple donuts.

Gluten-Free Option: If you’re making these donuts gluten-free, be sure to use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to maintain the proper texture and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and whisking the wet mixture separately. Keep them refrigerated in airtight containers to maintain freshness. You can also chop the apples a day ahead and store them in lemon water to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the two mixtures, fill your donut pan, and bake as directed. Once cooled, glaze the donuts for a delightful treat that tastes just as delicious as when made fresh!

Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze Recipe FAQs

What type of apples work best for this recipe?
I recommend using Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples for their optimal sweetness and flavor. Their juicy texture enhances the overall experience of these Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze, bringing a delightful bite in every mouthful.

How do I store leftover Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze?
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing them to maintain their deliciousness. It’s always best to enjoy them fresh, but this method keeps them tasting lovely!

Can I freeze the Baked Apple Donuts?
Absolutely! For longer storage, individually wrap each donut in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-top bag, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them at room temperature for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.

What can I do if my donut batter is too thick?
If your batter seems too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk to loosen it up. Make sure to mix gently to avoid overmixing. A well-textured batter will lead to light and fluffy Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze.

Are these donuts suitable for special diets?
Yes! You can easily make these Baked Apple Donuts gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free option, substitute buttermilk with regular milk plus a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, and use coconut oil instead of butter.