Irresistible Baked Apple Donuts with Sweet Glaze Recipe

There’s something truly enchanting about the scent of baked apples mingling with cinnamon and sugar, a smell that takes me right back to my childhood kitchen in Devon. My mum’s hands would be dusted in flour as she pulled fresh treats from the oven, and I’d be perched on a stool, breathless with anticipation. These Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze are a gentle nod to those warm mornings, where the air was thick with magic and the promise of a comforting bite. Unlike the usual fried versions, these baked delights are lighter, tender, and carry that natural apple sweetness that always makes me feel like I’m wrapped in a cosy blanket on a chilly Sunday.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze

When I first experimented with baked apple donuts, it felt like rediscovering a forgotten treasure. The beauty lies in their simplicity: tender, moist, and bursting with the kind of fruity warmth that reminds you of a slow afternoon spent in your nan’s kitchen. These donuts aren’t just a treat; they’re a story, a memory, and a moment all rolled into one. What’s more, baking instead of frying means less mess and a lighter finish, so you can enjoy them without the usual guilt.

From my own experience, these donuts have a way of bringing people together. I remember serving them at a small gathering, where the kitchen was too small, the table too crowded, and the laughter too loud—all the ingredients for a perfect Devon day. The glaze, sweet and silky, is the finishing touch that adds just the right amount of indulgence without overpowering the delicate apple flavour.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (you can substitute with whole wheat for a nuttier flavour)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (or use coconut sugar for a deeper caramel note)
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or swap for sour cream for extra tang)
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (adds moisture and natural sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (I love using Bramley apples for their tartness)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter or neutral oil (for a dairy-free option, use melted coconut oil)

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tablespoons whole milk or plant-based milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of cinnamon (optional, for a little extra warmth)

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 200 per donut (makes 8 donuts)
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 150mg

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Steps to Create Your Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan or spray with non-stick cooking spray. I always keep a pan like this handy, as it’s a staple for cozy mornings.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This dry mixture carries the warm spices that make the donuts feel like a hug.
3. In a larger bowl, beat the sugar and egg together until pale and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This step reminds me of those early mornings when I’d sneak into the kitchen and whisk eggs by hand, imagining I was creating something extraordinary.
4. Mix in the Greek yogurt, applesauce, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well combined. The applesauce is a trick my mum taught me to keep baked goods moist without that heavy greasiness.
5. Fold the chopped apples gently into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until no flour streaks remain. Overmixing can make the donuts tough; I learned this the hard way when I first tried to rush a recipe.
6. Carefully spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. I find using a piping bag or a resealable bag with a corner snipped works wonders for neat, even donuts.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell at this point is pure joy, and I try to resist eating them straight from the pan (though it’s tough!).
8. Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
9. For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if it’s too thick, or more sugar if it’s too thin.
10. Dip the tops of each cooled donut into the glaze and place them back on the wire rack. Allow the glaze to set for at least 15 minutes before serving. This final step always feels a little like frosting a cake — a sweet, satisfying finish.

Tips for Making the Best Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze

• Choose your apples wisely: I prefer Bramley or Granny Smith for their tartness, which balances the sweetness. Softer apples like Gala or Fuji can make the batter too wet.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Stir until just combined to keep the donuts light and tender. My mum always said it’s like folding memories gently into the mix.
• Room temperature ingredients: Eggs and yogurt at room temperature blend more evenly, giving a better rise and texture.
• Use a piping bag: For neat, even donuts, especially if you don’t have a scoop that fits the donut cavities.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cloves or cardamom for a different twist that still feels like autumn in your mouth.
• Glaze variations: Swap vanilla for maple extract or add a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze are a dream alongside a steaming cup of tea—earl grey or a cinnamon-spiced chai work especially well. I often serve them at weekend brunches with friends, alongside thick-cut bacon and scrambled eggs for a balance of sweet and savoury. On a quiet morning, I like to slice one of these donuts in half and toast it lightly, then spread a dab of butter or cream cheese while it’s warm. It’s these little moments, shared around a tea-stained table, that make the recipe feel like more than just food—it’s connection.

For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans over the glaze before it sets, or add a handful of raisins into the batter for a hidden burst of sweetness. I’ve also found that a dollop of clotted cream or a spoonful of homemade apple butter takes these donuts from everyday pleasure to something truly special. Learn more: Sizzling Ground Beef Hashbrown Casserole Recipes to Elevate Your Dinner Game

Storage and Reheating Tips

Like many of my mum’s bakes, these donuts are best enjoyed fresh, ideally the same day. However, if you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare in my house), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, pop them in the fridge for up to a week, but bring them back to room temperature before serving.

To reheat, place a donut in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5 minutes. Avoid reheating glazed donuts in the oven too long or the glaze can melt off. Personally, I love the soft warmth of a gently microwaved donut, it’s like the kitchen is humming with quiet comfort—just like those mornings I spent sneaking into the kitchen as a child.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze?

The main ingredients for Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze?

The total time to make Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze ahead of time?

Yes, Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze?

Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze are a slice of home, a whisper of my Devon childhood wrapped in tender dough and sweet spice. They remind me that food is more than nourishment; it’s a thread that weaves us into our past and connects us to those we love. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or a quiet moment with your own cup of tea, these donuts offer a gentle warmth and a touch of sweetness that feels like a hug from my mum’s kitchen.

“Food wasn’t just for eating — it was for remembering.”

I hope you find the same joy in making and sharing these donuts as I do. After all, every recipe tells a story, and this one is filled with laughter, cinnamon, and a little slice of Devon countryside magic.