Baked Apple Donuts with Glaze

These baked apple donuts with glaze bring a bright twist to a classic treat. They combine tender, lightly spiced cake with fresh apple pieces and a sweet vanilla glaze. This recipe has become a go-to anytime I want a cozy, homemade snack that feels special without much fuss.

I first made these on a crisp autumn morning, and my household instantly declared them a favorite. Their balance of spice and sweetness always brings smiles.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: This forms the donut’s structure& choose a good quality, unbleached flour for better texture
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with browning& using regular granulated sugar works perfectly
• Baking powder: Helps the donuts rise and become fluffy
• Baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to give the donuts a tender crumb
• Cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic spice that complements the apples
• Nutmeg: Gives a subtle depth of flavor& fresh grated nutmeg is ideal but powdered works fine
• Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances the sweetness
• Buttermilk: Provides acidity that reacts with baking soda for fluffiness and adds moisture
• Large eggs: Help bind ingredients and give structure
• Unsalted butter melted: Adds richness and moisture& melt gently to avoid cooking the eggs when mixing
• Finely chopped apples: Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji for crispness and tartness
• Powdered sugar: Forms the base of the glaze for sweetness and smooth texture
• Milk: Used to thin the glaze for dipping
• Vanilla extract: Adds flavor complexity to the glaze

Instructions

Spoon the dry ingredients together:

Whisk flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl. Make sure to distribute the spices evenly to avoid clumps and ensure every bite is balanced.

Mix the wet ingredients separately:

In another bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, eggs, and melted butter until smooth. This keeps the wet ingredients uniform and ready to combine with the dry mix.

Combine wet and dry ingredients gently:

Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix& a few lumps are fine. Overmixing can make the donuts tough.

Fold the apples in:

Add the finely chopped apples and gently fold them into the batter. This prevents breaking up the pieces too much and ensures apples stay evenly distributed.

Prepare the donut pan and bake:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 Celsius. Grease a donut pan thoroughly so the donuts release easily after baking. Spoon batter into each donut well, filling about three quarters full to allow space for rising. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Make the glaze:

While the donuts cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust milk quantity to get a thick yet dip-able glaze consistency.

Glaze and set the donuts:

Once the donuts are completely cool, dip the tops into the glaze and place them on a wire rack to allow the excess to drip off and the glaze to set fully before serving.

My favorite part is the interplay between the tender spiced dough and the crisp bits of apple inside. A family morning tradition began when my kids requested these donuts on weekend breakfasts. The aroma fills the kitchen with warmth and coaxed even the sleepiest family member out of bed.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to keep donuts soft. For longer storage, freeze the donuts without glaze and glaze just before serving. Reheat gently in a low oven or toaster oven to refresh texture without drying out

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap buttermilk with regular milk plus a teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic acidity. Butter can be replaced with an equal amount of neutral oil for a dairy-free option. Try using different apple varieties like Honeycrisp for sweetness or Braeburn for firmness to tweak flavor and texture

Serving Suggestions

Serve these with a hot cup of apple cider or your favorite coffee for a perfect fall pairing. They work wonderfully as an after-school snack or a cozy breakfast treat alongside yogurt and fruit. Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top of the glaze for extra crunch and flavor contrast

This recipe brings a wholesome twist to a classic treat that’s quick and satisfying to prepare. Enjoy the comforting flavors all year round.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of apples work best?

Crisp and slightly tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well and complement the warm spices.

→ Can I substitute buttermilk in the batter?

Yes, you can use milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk's acidity.

→ How is the glaze prepared and applied?

The glaze is whisked together with powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, then dipped onto cooled donuts for a smooth coat.

→ What spices enhance the apple flavor?

Cinnamon and nutmeg give warmth and depth, complementing the natural sweetness of the apples.

→ Are these donuts baked or fried?

These donuts are baked for a lighter texture and easier preparation without frying oil.