Apple Spice Donuts with Brown Sugar Topping are a delightful blend of flavors that bring warmth and joy to any occasion. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy donut, the sweet aroma of apples and spices wrapping around you like a warm hug on a chilly day. Each donut is perfectly spiced, kissed with cinnamon and nutmeg, and topped with a brown sugar glaze that shimmers like the first frost of winter.
When I first tried making Apple Spice Donuts, it was during one of those crisp autumn mornings where the leaves danced joyfully down the street. My kitchen smelled like a cozy bakery, and my family couldn’t wait to grab one fresh out of the oven. This recipe quickly became a favorite for weekend brunches and holiday gatherings, leaving everyone eagerly asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Apple Spice Donuts are easy to whip up in under an hour; perfect for busy mornings
- The sweet apple and spice flavors create a comforting experience in every bite
- Their beautiful golden-brown color makes them irresistibly appealing on any plate
- Enjoy them plain or topped with your favorite glazes – they’re versatile enough for any celebration!
I’ll never forget the first time I served these donuts at a family gathering; the smiles on their faces were priceless as they devoured each one.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
-
All-Purpose Flour: This is your base ingredient; choose unbleached flour for better flavor.
-
Baking Powder: Make sure it’s fresh to ensure your donuts rise beautifully.
-
Cinnamon: The star spice! Use ground cinnamon for that warm, homey flavor.
-
Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg adds depth; use freshly grated if possible.
-
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the batter nicely; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
-
Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and richness, perfect for that topping!
-
Eggs: Two large eggs will help bind everything together while adding richness.
-
Applesauce: Use unsweetened applesauce for natural sweetness and moisture.
-
Milk: Any milk will do; it adds tenderness to your donuts.
-
Butter: Melted butter enhances flavor; use unsalted to control saltiness.
For the Brown Sugar Topping:
-
Coconut Oil or Butter: Either works well for greasing; use what you prefer!
-
Brown Sugar (for topping): Use packed brown sugar for that delightful caramel-like finish.
-
Cinnamon (for topping): Just a sprinkle will elevate the topping’s flavor!
-
Powdered Sugar (optional): For an extra sweet touch if desired.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Your Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan generously with coconut oil or butter so they slide out easily post-bake.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and salt until well combined. The scent will be divine!
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix eggs, applesauce, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. This is where the magic begins!
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients using a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your donuts light!
Pour Batter into Pan: Spoon or pipe batter into each cavity of the prepared donut pan about three-quarters full. You want them fluffy but not overflowing!
Bake Your Donuts: Bake in preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. They should spring back when lightly pressed—trust me; this is key!
Create That Topping: While donuts cool slightly in the pan, mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Once cool enough to handle but still warm, dip tops into melted butter and then into brown sugar mixture.
Enjoy those Apple Spice Donuts with Brown Sugar Topping while they’re still warm! Share them with friends or savor them all yourself—I won’t judge!
You Must Know
- These Apple Spice Donuts with Brown Sugar Topping are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion
- The warm spices and sweet glaze create a cozy flavor experience that will make your kitchen smell like a fall festival
- Enjoy them fresh, warm, or as an indulgent breakfast!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Mix the dry ingredients first, then blend in the wet ones for a smooth batter.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the apple for pears or add chopped nuts for extra crunch. A dash of nutmeg can also elevate the flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for 10 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh apples for maximum flavor and moisture
- Don’t overmix your batter; it should be slightly lumpy for fluffy donuts
- Allow the donuts to cool slightly before glazing to prevent dripping
Creating these Apple Spice Donuts with Brown Sugar Topping has always brought smiles in my family, especially when my kids get involved in glazing them!
FAQ
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but adjust the liquid accordingly.
How do I know when my donuts are done?
Insert a toothpick; it should come out clean when they’re fully baked.
Can I freeze these donuts?
Absolutely! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to two months.
Apple Spice Donuts with Brown Sugar Topping
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Apple Spice Donuts with Brown Sugar Topping are the perfect autumn treat, combining the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with sweet apples. These soft, fluffy donuts are topped with a delightful brown sugar glaze that adds a touch of sweetness to every bite. Ideal for cozy brunches or festive gatherings, this easy recipe will fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of fall. Enjoy them fresh and warm for an unforgettable experience!
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
- Coconut oil or butter (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan with coconut oil or butter.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the eggs, applesauce, milk, and melted butter until smooth.
- Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined.
- Spoon the batter into the donut pan about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and springy to touch.
- For the topping, mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish; dip warm donuts into melted butter then into the sugar mixture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut (45g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
