Mini Apple Donuts

There’s something undeniably joyous about the experience of making homemade donuts. The enticing aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through your kitchen, the thrill of watching the dough rise, and the satisfaction of biting into a warm, fluffy donut is a delight that few store-bought options can replicate. Among the myriad of donut varieties, mini donuts hold a special place in the hearts of many. They are perfect for gatherings, ideal for little hands, and a fun way to indulge without the guilt of overindulgence.

Discover the joy of baking with this Cinnamon Sugar Mini Apple Donuts recipe! These delightful mini treats are easy to make and bursting with flavor from cinnamon and fresh apples. Perfect for any occasion, they offer a guilt-free indulgence that little hands will love. With a soft, fluffy texture and a sweet cinnamon sugar coating, these mini donuts are a hit at gatherings or simply as a cozy snack at home. Whip up a batch and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen!

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Ingredients

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 whole milk

1 large egg

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped

For coating: 1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a mini donut pan by greasing it with non-stick spray or a light coat of butter to ensure the donuts release easily.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is well combined and free of lumps.

Prepare Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the unsweetened applesauce, whole milk, large egg, melted unsalted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, homogenous mixture.

Combine Ingredients: Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, carefully fold the two mixtures together until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture in the donuts.

Add Chopped Apples: With a gentle hand, fold in the finely chopped apple, making sure it is evenly distributed throughout the batter for bursts of flavor in each bite.

Fill the Pan: Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each cavity of the donut pan approximately 3/4 full with the batter, which will allow for proper rising without overflowing.

Bake: Transfer the filled donut pan to the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts turn a lovely golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Coat: Once done, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Carefully remove them and transfer to a wire rack. While still warm, roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Serve: Indulge in these delightful mini apple donuts while they're warm! Consider adding a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra special touch that enhances their deliciousness.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 24 mini donuts