Description
These delightful Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts combine the comforting flavors of apple pie with the convenience of a baked donut. They are moist, tender, and packed with diced apples, warmly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. A generous sprinkle of cinnamon-nutmeg crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch and sweetness, making these donuts an irresistible treat for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. They are simple to make, require no frying, and are ready in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
Apple Donut:
- 2 cups pancake mix
- 3 Tablespoons brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup milk (I used 1%)
- 1 large egg
- 2 Tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 cup apple, finely diced
Crumb Topping:
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 Tablespoons powdered sugar, for sprinkling
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the donuts bake evenly. Generously spray your donut pans with nonstick cooking spray. Thoroughly greasing the pans prevents the donuts from sticking and ensures easy removal.
Step 2: Prepare the Donut Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisking ensures that all dry ingredients are evenly combined, preventing any lumps in the batter. Add the milk, egg, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in tough donuts. Gently fold in the finely diced apples until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 3: Fill the Donut Pans
Transfer the batter to a zipper or piping bag. Cut a triangle from the end of the bag large enough to allow the apples to pass through. Piping the batter ensures even distribution and prevents a mess. Pipe the batter into each donut mold, filling it about ¾ full to allow room for rising during baking. Alternatively, you can spoon the batter into each mold.
Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Softened butter is crucial for creating the right crumbly texture. Use a fork to work the mixture into small crumbs. Avoid overmixing, as this can cause the topping to become a paste.
Step 5: Add Topping and Bake
Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly and generously over each donut. This adds both flavor and texture. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the donuts are cooked through and the topping is set. A toothpick inserted into the center of a donut should come out clean when they are done.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before carefully removing them with an offset spatula. Cooling slightly helps the donuts firm up, making them easier to remove. Sprinkle with powdered sugar, if desired, for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why you’ll love this recipe:
- Easy to make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm and comforting taste.
- Baked, not fried: These donuts are healthier than their fried counterparts.
- Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick breakfast or snack.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices and add-ins to suit your preferences.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a cup of coffee or tea.
- Enjoy as a sweet treat for breakfast or brunch.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- Pack them in lunchboxes for a special treat.
- Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze.
Tips:
- Use a good quality nonstick donut pan to prevent sticking.
- Finely dice the apples to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Do not overmix the donut batter, as this can result in tough donuts.
- Make sure the butter for the crumb topping is softened, but not melted.
- Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the milk for a tangier flavor.
- Substitute pecans or walnuts for the pecans in the crumb topping.
- Try using different types of apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for a varied flavor.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 20-22 minutes
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: Approximately 200 per donut (depending on ingredients and serving size)
- Protein: Approximately 3g per donut
- Sodium: Approximately 250mg per donut (depending on the pancake mix used)
Conclusion
These Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their simple preparation, delightful flavor, and appealing presentation make them a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a satisfying snack, or a delicious dessert, these donuts are sure to hit the spot. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy these warmly spiced, apple-filled delights!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the donuts ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before serving.
Q2: Can I use a different type of milk?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the donuts might slightly vary depending on the milk you choose.
Q3: What can I use if I don’t have a donut pan?
A: If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin instead. Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with batter. The baking time may need to be adjusted slightly, so keep an eye on them and check for doneness with a toothpick.
Q4: Can I add a glaze to these donuts?
A: Of course! A simple powdered sugar glaze or a cinnamon glaze would be delicious on these donuts. Just whisk together powdered sugar with a little milk or apple cider and a pinch of cinnamon, then drizzle over the cooled donuts.
Q5: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free pancake mix and gluten-free all-purpose flour for the crumb topping. Be sure to check the labels of all ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free.
