Craving a sweet treat that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further! These baked cinnamon sugar donut holes are the perfect snack for any time of day. With a soft, fluffy texture and a delightful cinnamon coating, they will become your go-to recipe. I’ll guide you step-by-step to create this irresistible delight right at home. Ready to satisfy your sweet tooth? Let’s get baking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Additional Ingredients
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Coating Ingredients
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Baked cinnamon sugar donut holes are a treat that you can make with simple ingredients. You start with all-purpose flour, which gives the donut holes their light and fluffy texture. The granulated sugar adds sweetness, while the baking powder and baking soda help them rise. A pinch of salt balances the flavors, and cinnamon gives that warm, cozy taste.
In the wet ingredients, we use unsweetened applesauce. This not only adds moisture but also keeps the donuts soft. Milk, a large egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract round out the mixture, giving it a rich flavor.
For the coating, we combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This mix creates a sweet and spicy crust that makes each bite irresistible. If you want the full recipe, check out the complete guide to making these treats.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a mini muffin tin with non-stick spray.
– In a medium bowl, mix together the following dry ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Combine Wet Ingredients
– In another bowl, whisk together:
– 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Mix until smooth and well combined.
Baking
– Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry mix. Stir gently until just combined.
– Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin. Fill each cup about 3/4 full.
– Bake for 10-12 minutes. Check if they are done by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
– While the donut holes bake, prepare the coating. Mix together:
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Once the donut holes are done, let them cool for 5 minutes in the pan. Then, transfer them to a wire rack.
– While they are still warm, toss each donut hole in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Coat them well for that perfect sweet touch.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To get fluffy donut holes, avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just until the wet and dry ingredients come together. Overmixing can lead to dense donut holes. Use a mini muffin tin for even baking. This helps them cook uniformly and rise nicely. Fill each cup about 3/4 full to allow room for them to puff up.
Serving Suggestions
You can present donut holes in fun ways. Try arranging them in a cute basket lined with parchment paper. Dust them with extra cinnamon sugar for a lovely touch. You can also serve them with warm chocolate or vanilla dipping sauce. This adds a new flavor that kids and adults will love.
Storage Information
To keep leftover donut holes fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a piece of paper towel inside. This absorbs moisture and keeps them soft. For reheating, pop them in the microwave for a few seconds. This will bring back the warm, soft texture. Enjoy your delicious Baked Cinnamon Sugar Donut Holes with these tips, and check the Full Recipe for more details!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor of your donut holes easily. Try substituting the applesauce with mashed banana or pumpkin puree. Both options add moisture and a unique taste. You can also experiment with spices. Instead of just cinnamon, try adding nutmeg, cardamom, or ginger. Each spice gives a new twist to your donut holes.
Dietary Considerations
For those who need gluten-free options, use a gluten-free flour blend. This will keep the texture light and fluffy. If you want to make the recipe vegan, swap the egg for a flax egg. Just mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. You can also use plant-based milk in place of regular milk.
Seasonal Variations
Baked cinnamon sugar donut holes are great for any season. In fall, you might add pumpkin puree or spices like nutmeg. During the winter, try incorporating peppermint extract for a festive flair. You can even fold in seasonal fruits, like diced apples in autumn or fresh cranberries in winter. These variations make your snack fun and exciting throughout the year.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section to create your perfect donut holes!
Nutritional Information
Caloric Breakdown
Each donut hole has about 70 calories. The main nutrients include:
– Carbohydrates: 10 grams
– Fat: 3 grams
– Protein: 1 gram
This recipe makes 24 donut holes, perfect for sharing or enjoying over a few days.
Health Benefits
Using applesauce is a great way to cut back on sugar. It adds moisture and sweetness without the calories of white sugar. Applesauce also has vitamins and minerals that support good health. The fiber in applesauce helps with digestion, making these donut holes a smarter choice than fried ones.
Portion Control
To enjoy these treats without overindulging, stick to 1-2 donut holes per serving. This keeps your calorie intake balanced and lets you savor the flavor. You can always save some for later!
FAQs
How to make baked donuts without a mini muffin pan?
If you don’t have a mini muffin pan, use a regular muffin pan. Fill each cup halfway. This works well, but your donut holes will be larger. You can also use silicone molds. They release easily and shape the donuts perfectly.
Can I freeze baked cinnamon sugar donut holes?
Yes, you can freeze these tasty treats! Allow them to cool completely. Place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. They will last for about three months in the freezer. When you want to eat them, thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
What can I use instead of eggs in this recipe?
For a vegan option, use flaxseed meal or chia seeds. Mix one tablespoon of either with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes until it thickens. This substitute keeps the donut holes moist, though they may be a bit denser.
How long do baked cinnamon sugar donut holes last?
These donut holes stay fresh for about three days at room temperature. Store them in an airtight container to keep them soft. You can also refrigerate them to extend their shelf life, but they may lose some fluffiness.
This blog post covered everything you need to make tasty baked cinnamon sugar donut holes. We discussed the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips for great results. You learned about flavor variations and how to store the leftovers. Remember, using applesauce is a smart way to cut sugar and add moisture. Try different spices and ingredients to make your own version. With these easy steps, you can enjoy fresh, warm treats anytime!
