There’s something truly special about the moment you take the first bite of a warm donut, especially when it’s drizzled in a sweet, glossy glaze. I found myself in the kitchen one rainy afternoon, craving something delightful to pair with my coffee, when the idea for these Glazed Applesauce Donuts struck me. With the comforting, subtle sweetness of applesauce and a hint of cinnamon, this recipe transforms a simple ingredient into an indulgent treat that feels both homey and sophisticated.
These donuts are not only effortless to whip up but also perfect for sharing! Whether you’re planning a cozy brunch with friends or looking to sweeten your family’s morning routine, these donuts are a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone eagerly reaching for seconds. Join me as we dive into this easy recipe and bring the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked donuts into your home—no frying required! Ready to savor the goodness? Let’s get started!
Why You'll Love This Glazed Applesauce Donuts
- These Glazed Applesauce Donuts are incredibly easy to make, ensuring you can whip up a batch in no time.
- The flavor is absolutely delightful, with the perfect balance of sweetness from the applesauce and a warm hint of cinnamon that makes each bite a cozy experience.
- Their versatility means they can be enjoyed for breakfast, dessert, or even as an afternoon snack, making them a great addition to any occasion.
- Plus, their beautiful glaze makes them visually appealing, ensuring they will impress guests and family alike.
Glazed Applesauce Donuts Ingredients
Creating these delightful donuts is easier than you think, and the ingredients are likely already in your pantry!
For the Donuts
- 1 large egg – adds richness and helps bind the ingredients.
- 1 cup milk – keeps the donuts moist; feel free to use any milk alternative!
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce – provides natural sweetness and moisture; use extra for the glaze.
- 2/3 cup sugar – balances out the flavors; consider reducing for a less sweet donut.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the overall flavor with a lovely aromatic note.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – the base for your donuts; you can swap with whole wheat for added nutrition.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder – essential for making the donuts fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – brings warmth and spice; a must-have in this recipe!
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
For the Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar – gives the glaze its sweet and smooth texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – adds an extra layer of flavor to the glaze.
- 2 teaspoons unsweetened applesauce – complements the powdered sugar and gives the glaze a subtle fruitiness.
- 4 teaspoons water – helps to achieve the perfect glaze consistency; feel free to add more for a thinner glaze.
These Glazed Applesauce Donuts are not just a treat for your taste buds, but a fun recipe to create together with loved ones!
How to Make Glazed Applesauce Donuts
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and give your donut pan a light spray with cooking spray to ensure easy removal after baking.
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Whisk together in a mixing bowl the egg, milk, applesauce, sugar, and vanilla. Aim for a smooth and cohesive mixture that’s filled with delightful flavors.
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Combine the dry ingredients: gradually add the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt into the mixing bowl. Stir until the batter is completely smooth, creating a thick yet pourable consistency.
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Spoon the batter into each cavity of the prepared donut pan, filling each almost to the top. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—look for a light golden color.
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Cool the donuts in the pan for a few minutes, then carefully transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely, allowing them to maintain their fluffy texture.
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Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, applesauce, and water in a separate bowl. Mix until smooth, adding more water if necessary to reach the desired consistency.
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Dip the tops of each cooled donut into the glaze, twisting gently to ensure an even coating. Let any excess drip off before placing them glaze-side up on the lined baking sheet.
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Rest the glazed donuts for about 15 minutes, allowing the glaze to set and create a beautiful shine before serving.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Glazed Applesauce Donuts
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Room Temperature: Keep the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This way, they stay soft and delicious for your morning coffee.
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Fridge: If you want them to last a bit longer, you can store the Glazed Applesauce Donuts in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out.
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Freezer: These donuts freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying.
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Reheating: To warm up the donuts, simply microwave them for about 10-15 seconds. This will revive their soft texture and warm the glaze back up!
Make Ahead Options
These Glazed Applesauce Donuts are fantastic for meal prep, making your busy mornings a breeze! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours in advance—just combine all the wet and dry ingredients but hold off on baking. Store the mixed batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can also glaze the donuts and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days; simply rewarm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving to regain that fresh-baked taste. This way, you’ll enjoy delightful, homemade donuts with minimal morning effort, just as delicious and fluffy as if they were baked fresh!
What to Serve with Glazed Applesauce Donuts?
These delightful treats are perfect for indulging your taste buds while sharing cozy moments with family and friends.
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Fresh Brewed Coffee: The perfect pairing for sugary donuts, a cup of coffee enhances their flavors and provides a comforting morning ritual.
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Warm Milk: A sweet and comforting option, warm milk complements the cinnamon notes in the donuts and balances their sweetness.
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Fruit Salad: A zesty, fresh fruit salad brings a refreshing contrast to the fluffy sweetness of the donuts, adding both color and flavor to your brunch table.
Bright, juicy berries, crisp apples, and succulent oranges can all create a vibrant plate that perfectly harmonizes with your Glazed Applesauce Donuts.
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Cinnamon Tea: A warm cup of cinnamon tea offers a soothing sip that draws out the spices in the donuts while making the meal feel even more indulgent.
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Maple Syrup: Drizzle a little maple syrup over your donuts for an additional layer of sweetness and a touch of classic flavor that everyone loves.
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Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruit provides a lovely texture contrast while making a deliciously creamy treat beside your donuts.
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Chai Latte: The spiced, creamy goodness of a chai latte beautifully complements the flavors of your donuts, making every bite feel like a warm hug.
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Nutty Trail Mix: A crunchy blend of nuts and dried fruits adds a hearty texture contrast, balancing the sweet softness of your donuts for a satisfying snack across the board.
With these delicious pairings, your Glazed Applesauce Donuts will shine bright and bring smiles to every gathering!
Glazed Applesauce Donuts Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delicious donuts your own with these fun twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy these treats without the gluten.
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Maple Infusion: Replace sugar with maple syrup for a delightful and unique flavor that adds a cozy twist.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the dry ingredients for an aromatic kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Berry Boost: Fold in a cup of fresh blueberries or chopped strawberries into the batter for a fruity burst in every bite!
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Nutty Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and depth; it’s a delightful surprise!
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Cacao Kick: Mix in a few tablespoons of cocoa powder to create chocolate-glazed donuts that will surely please chocolate lovers.
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Zesty Touch: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter for a fresh citrus twist; it brightens up the flavor beautifully.
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Chili Heat: For those who love a bit of spice, incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the glaze for a sweet and spicy treat that’s unforgettable!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Glazed Applesauce Donuts, be sure to properly whisk the wet ingredients first to achieve a smooth and cohesive batter, which helps combine flavors effectively.
- Avoid over-mixing your batter once you add the dry ingredients, as this can lead to dense donuts instead of light and fluffy ones.
- For the glaze, start with a smaller amount of water and gradually add more until you reach the desired consistency, giving you the perfect coating for your donuts.
- Remember to let your donuts cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to avoid breaking them apart.
Glazed Applesauce Donuts Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right applesauce?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, opt for unsweetened applesauce made from one hundred percent apples. You can also choose a brand that has no added sugars or preservatives. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying flavored applesauces, such as cinnamon or caramel, for a fun twist!
How should I store leftover donuts?
To keep your Glazed Applesauce Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need them to last longer, pop them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to check if they’re covered well so they don’t dry out!
Can I freeze these donuts for later?
Absolutely! Freezing Glazed Applesauce Donuts is an excellent way to save them for future enjoyment. First, allow the donuts to cool completely. Then, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, followed by placing them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
What should I do if my donuts come out dense?
Very! If you find your donuts are denser than expected, it’s often due to overmixing the batter after adding the flour. To avoid this, mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated. Also, ensure that your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to undesired textures in baked goods.
Are these donuts safe for pets or those with allergies?
Good question! While these donuts are delicious for humans, they’re not suitable for pets due to high sugar content and certain ingredients like cinnamon. Additionally, be cautious if preparing for anyone with allergies; common allergens in this recipe include egg, milk, and wheat. Always substitute with allergy-friendly alternatives if necessary, and check with your guests for dietary restrictions!
Glazed Applesauce Donuts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and give your donut pan a light spray with cooking spray to ensure easy removal after baking.
- Whisk together in a mixing bowl the egg, milk, applesauce, sugar, and vanilla. Aim for a smooth and cohesive mixture that’s filled with delightful flavors.
- Combine the dry ingredients: gradually add the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt into the mixing bowl. Stir until the batter is completely smooth, creating a thick yet pourable consistency.
- Spoon the batter into each cavity of the prepared donut pan, filling each almost to the top. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—look for a light golden color.
- Cool the donuts in the pan for a few minutes, then carefully transfer them to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to cool completely, allowing them to maintain their fluffy texture.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, applesauce, and water in a separate bowl. Mix until smooth, adding more water if necessary to reach the desired consistency.
- Dip the tops of each cooled donut into the glaze, twisting gently to ensure an even coating. Let any excess drip off before placing them glaze-side up on the lined baking sheet.
- Rest the glazed donuts for about 15 minutes, allowing the glaze to set and create a beautiful shine before serving.
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