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Baked donuts have taken the culinary world by storm, combining the delightful taste of traditional fried donuts with a healthier baking technique. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, fluffy donut infused with the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon—it's a treat that captures the essence of autumn and brings comfort year-round. Baked donuts are not only delicious but also offer a lighter alternative to their fried counterparts, making them a popular choice for health-conscious dessert lovers.

Baked Apple Cinnamon Donuts

Discover the joy of baking with these Baked Apple Cinnamon Donuts! Soft, fluffy, and infused with the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon, this guilt-free treat is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the simplicity of a recipe that uses fresh ingredients, allowing for a lighter alternative to traditional fried donuts. These delightful donuts are great for brunch, family breakfasts, or just satisfying your sweet cravings. Get ready to experience the comforting flavors of autumn year-round!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)

1 large egg

1 cup diced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

2 tablespoons melted butter (for greasing the donut pan)

For the Topping:

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons melted butter (for coating)

Instructions
 

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan with melted butter.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the applesauce, milk, vanilla extract, and egg together until smooth.

        Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix. Gently stir in the diced apples.

          Fill Donut Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full to allow for rising.

            Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

              Prepare Topping: While the donuts are baking, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the topping in a small bowl.

                Coat the Donuts: Once the donuts are done, let them cool for 5 minutes in the pan before removing them. After removing, dip the still-warm donuts into the melted butter and then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until coated.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 12 donuts