As the leaves start to change and the air becomes crisp, there's nothing quite like the comforting smell of cinnamon and apples filling your kitchen. Fall is the perfect time to indulge in cosy, warm treats, and these cinnamon apple baked donuts are the ultimate autumn comfort food. They’re easy to make, bursting with seasonal flavours, and baked instead of fried, making them a slightly healthier option (but still incredibly delicious!). Whether you're curling up with a good book, hosting a fall gathering, or just treating yourself, these donuts are sure to become a favourite.

 

Why You'll Love These Cinnamon Apple Baked Donuts

These donuts are everything you love about fall in a single bite. The combination of sweet apples and spicy cinnamon captures the essence of the season, while the soft, fluffy texture makes them perfect for a cosy morning breakfast or an afternoon snack. Plus, they're baked, not fried, which means you can enjoy them without the guilt of deep-fried treats. And did I mention the delightful cinnamon-sugar coating that gives them that classic donut finish? Trust me, these donuts are like a warm hug in food form!

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Cinnamon Apple Baked Donuts

For these cinnamon apple baked donuts, you’ll need some basic pantry staples along with a few fall-inspired ingredients:

For the Donuts:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely diced (about ¾ cup)

 

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

 

How to Make Cinnamon Apple Baked Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter. If you don't have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin, but a donut pan will give you that classic donut shape.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. These spices are the heart of this recipe, bringing that warm, cozy fall flavor to every bite.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and egg until well combined. Add the applesauce, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract, and mix until smooth. The applesauce not only adds moisture but also enhances the apple flavour in the donuts.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts tough. Fold in the diced apples, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into a large zip-top bag or piping bag. Snip off the corner and pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. If you’re using a muffin tin, simply spoon the batter into each cup.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. They should be lightly golden and spring back when touched. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the donuts are cooling, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon. In a separate bowl, melt the butter.

Step 8: Coat the Donuts

Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, brush each one lightly with the melted butter and then dip it into the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure to coat all sides. This step gives the donuts that irresistible sweet and spicy finish that makes them so special.

Serving Suggestions

These cinnamon apple baked donuts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re still warm and the cinnamon sugar is perfectly crisp. Serve them with a steaming mug of apple cider, a pumpkin spice latte, or a cup of hot tea for the ultimate fall treat. They’re perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a cozy afternoon snack.

If you’re hosting a fall gathering, consider setting up a donut bar with a variety of toppings like caramel drizzle, chopped nuts, or even a cream cheese glaze. Your guests will love customizing their own donuts!

Storage Tips

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because they’re so good!), you can store these donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply warm them up in the microwave for a few seconds to restore that fresh-out-of-the-oven goodness.

A Cosy Fall Tradition

Making these cinnamon apple baked donuts has quickly become one of my favourite fall traditions. There’s something so comforting about baking on a chilly autumn day, with the smell of cinnamon and apples wafting through the house. It’s a simple pleasure that captures the essence of the season, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you.

Whether you’re baking these for yourself, your family, or friends, I hope they bring a little extra warmth and cosiness to your fall days. These donuts are the perfect way to celebrate everything we love about autumn—crisp apples, cosy spices, and sweet, comforting treats. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite! 🍩🍁

Pin This Recipe for Later!

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to pin it for later and share it with your friends. Let’s spread the cosy fall vibes one donut at a time! 🌟