Bake Apple Donuts has become my go-to for a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying snack. I’ve always loved the idea of donuts, but the deep-frying always deterred me. Then, one afternoon, while staring at a bowl of apples, a lightbulb went off! What if I could create a donut experience without all the oil? This easy baked apple donut recipe was born, and the joy on my kids’ faces when they saw these vibrant, fruit-based treats, complete with their favorite toppings, was priceless. The sweet aroma of cinnamon and fresh apple fills my kitchen, making me feel like a culinary wizard. It’s truly a genius way to enjoy a guilt-free “doughnut” any day of the week. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Bake Apple Donuts
I know you’ll fall in love with these Bake Apple Donuts for so many reasons. They’re not just a treat; they’re a revelation!
- Incredible Taste: These delightful apple rounds are naturally sweet and crunchy, perfectly complemented by the creamy, spiced peanut butter frosting.
- Super Quick Prep: With only 20 minutes from start to finish, this is an easy baked apple donut recipe that fits into even the busiest schedules.
- Healthy & Guilt-Free: Packed with fiber from the apples and healthy fats from the peanut butter, they’re a nutritious snack I feel good about eating and serving.
- Budget-Friendly: Using simple, wholesome ingredients, this easy baked apple donut recipe is kind to your wallet.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Kids absolutely adore decorating their own apple “donuts,” making it a fantastic activity for all ages.
- Versatile Snacking: Perfect for after-school, lunchboxes, or even a light breakfast, these Bake Apple Donuts are always a hit.
Ingredients for Bake Apple Donuts
Gathering your baked apple donut ingredients is incredibly simple, as this recipe uses just a few wholesome items you likely already have on hand. I love how straightforward this list is, making it easy to whip up a batch whenever a craving strikes.
- 2 large apples (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp) – I prefer crisp, sweet varieties for the best texture and flavor. Make sure they’re firm!
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or other nut butter) – Creamy works best for spreading. This forms the delicious “frosting” for your Bake Apple Donuts.
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey) – For a touch of natural sweetness to balance the peanut butter. Adjust to your taste!
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon – This spice adds a warm, comforting flavor that pairs perfectly with apples.
- Assorted toppings (e.g., sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, granola) – Get creative here! These add fun and extra texture to your Bake Apple Donuts.
How to Make Bake Apple Donuts
Making these delightful Bake Apple Donuts is a breeze, and I promise you’ll find the process as enjoyable as eating them! You won’t need an oven for this no-bake recipe, but the steps are just as satisfying.
- Step 1: First, wash and carefully core your apples. I find a small apple corer works wonders here, creating that perfect donut-hole center.
- Step 2: Next, slice each apple into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Aim for even slices so your Bake Apple Donuts are uniform and easy to handle. This is how to make apple donuts in oven, or rather, how to prepare them for a no-bake treat!
- Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the peanut butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Stir vigorously until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This is your luscious “frosting” for the Bake Apple Donuts.
- Step 4: Now for the fun part! Spread a thin, even layer of the peanut butter frosting onto one side of each apple slice. I love seeing the vibrant red or green of the apple peek through.
- Step 5: Arrange your frosted apple slices on a plate or serving platter. They’re already looking like delicious Bake Apple Donuts!
- Step 6: Decorate your Bake Apple Donuts with your favorite toppings. This is where you can let your creativity shine! Sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts – anything goes.
- Step 7: Serve your homemade apple donuts immediately to enjoy their crisp freshness. If you have any left, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This easy method truly shows you how to make apple donuts in oven (or rather, without one!) for a quick and healthy snack.
Pro Tips for the Best Bake Apple Donuts
I’ve made these Bake Apple Donuts countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks along the way that will help you achieve perfection every time. These simple tips will elevate your no-bake donuts from great to absolutely incredible!
- Always choose firm, crisp apples. Softer apples tend to get mushy quickly, especially after adding the frosting.
- Don’t be shy with the cinnamon in your peanut butter frosting; it truly enhances the apple flavor in these Bake Apple Donuts.
- For the cleanest cuts, use a sharp knife or a mandoline when slicing your apples. This ensures uniform thickness for your homemade apple donuts baked.
- Chill your peanut butter mixture slightly if it’s too runny; this makes it much easier to spread neatly onto the apple slices.
- Get creative with your toppings! A wide variety adds both visual appeal and exciting texture to your delicious Bake Apple Donuts.
What’s the secret to perfect Baked Apple Doughnuts?
The real secret to the best Bake Apple Donuts lies in the quality of your apples and the consistency of your frosting. Using crisp, sweet apples and a smooth, well-mixed peanut butter topping makes all the difference. This simple baked apple donut recipe relies on fresh ingredients.
Can I make Bake Apple Donuts ahead of time?
You absolutely can! Prep your apple slices and frosting separately. Store the apple slices in an airtight container with a splash of lemon water to prevent browning. Keep the frosting in the fridge. Assemble your Bake Apple Donuts just before serving for the freshest taste.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Baked apple donuts?
Firstly, avoid using soft or mealy apples, as they won’t hold their shape well. Secondly, ensure your peanut butter mixture isn’t too thin, or it will drip off the apple slices. Lastly, don’t over-stack them when storing, or your beautiful toppings might get smushed!
Best Ways to Serve Bake Apple Donuts
I find these Bake Apple Donuts incredibly versatile, making them perfect for almost any occasion. Their vibrant colors and fresh flavors always bring a smile!
For a quick after-school snack, I love arranging them on a platter with a glass of milk or a small fruit smoothie. The kids adore picking their own decorated apple rings.
They also make a fantastic addition to a brunch spread. Pair them with a bowl of Greek yogurt and some fresh berries for a light, healthy option. If you’re looking for extra warmth, a sprinkle of extra cinnamon makes them feel like Cinnamon apple baked donuts, perfect alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea.
Don’t overlook them for a healthy dessert option! They’re a refreshing alternative to heavier sweets, especially after a big meal.
Nutrition Facts for Bake Apple Donuts
I always get asked about the nutritional value of these delicious treats, and I’m happy to share! Here’s what you can expect per serving of these fantastic Bake Apple Donuts (recipe makes 8 servings, based on one apple donut):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients you choose for your Bake Apple Donuts. For example, using natural peanut butter can slightly alter the fat and sugar content.
How to Store and Reheat Bake Apple Donuts
Once you’ve enjoyed your freshly made Bake Apple Donuts, you might find yourself with a few delicious leftovers. Proper storage is key to keeping them fresh and tasty for as long as possible. I always make sure to store mine correctly to enjoy them later.
For short-term storage, place your Bake Apple Donuts in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3-4 days. I find placing a piece of parchment paper between layers helps prevent sticking. While these are a no-bake treat, if you were wondering how to make apple donuts in oven and then store them, the principles for refrigeration remain similar.
Reheating isn’t typically necessary since these are served cold or at room temperature. Just pull them from the fridge about 15-20 minutes before serving to let them come to a slightly warmer temperature. This simple method ensures your Bake Apple Donuts are always a refreshing snack.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bake Apple Donuts
Can I freeze Bake Apple Donuts?
While you can freeze apples, I don’t recommend freezing assembled Bake Apple Donuts. The texture of the apple can become soft and watery upon thawing, and the peanut butter frosting might separate. It’s best to enjoy them fresh or store them in the refrigerator for a few days.
Are baked apple donuts healthy?
Absolutely! I consider these Bake Apple Donuts a fantastic healthy snack option. They’re packed with fiber from the fresh apples and healthy fats and protein from the peanut butter. Compared to traditional fried donuts, they’re significantly lower in added sugars and saturated fats, making them a guilt-free treat. They’re naturally gluten-free and can be dairy-free depending on your nut butter choice.
What can I use instead of peanut butter?
If you have a peanut allergy or just prefer a different flavor, you can easily substitute the peanut butter. Almond butter, cashew butter, sunflower seed butter (SunButter), or even a cream cheese-based frosting (dairy-free if needed) all work wonderfully. Just ensure your chosen spread has a similar thickness for easy spreading on your Bake Apple Donuts.
How do I prevent the apples from browning?
To keep your Bake Apple Donuts looking their best, you can dip the apple slices in a mixture of lemon juice and water (about 1 tablespoon of lemon juice per cup of water) for a few minutes before frosting. This trick helps slow down oxidation, keeping your apples crisp and bright. Pat them dry thoroughly before applying the peanut butter.
Variations of Bake Apple Donuts You Can Try
One of the things I love most about this Bake Apple Donuts recipe is how easily it adapts to different tastes and dietary needs. You can truly make these your own with a few simple tweaks!
- Glazed Baked Apple Donuts: For a slightly different twist, try drizzling them with a light glaze instead of the full peanut butter frosting. A simple mix of powdered sugar and a splash of milk or apple cider makes for delicious Glazed baked apple donuts.
- Apple Cider Baked Donuts: Infuse more apple flavor by mixing a teaspoon of apple pie spice into your peanut butter frosting, or even a tiny splash of apple cider. This creates a cozy, autumnal vibe for your Bake Apple Donuts.
- Dairy-Free/Nut-Free: Easily make these suitable for allergies by using sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter, and ensuring your toppings are also allergen-friendly.
- Protein Boost: Stir a scoop of your favorite vanilla or unflavored protein powder into the peanut butter frosting for an extra nutritional punch, making these Bake Apple Donuts an even more satisfying snack.
Bake Apple Donuts: 20 Min. Incredible Treats
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Discover a fun and healthy snack with these baked apple donuts. These vibrant apple donuts, topped with creamy peanut butter frosting and various toppings, are perfect for after-school treats or lunchboxes. They are quick to prepare, taking only 20 minutes, and offer a nutritious option packed with fiber and healthy fats.
Ingredients
- 2 large apples (such as Fuji or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (or other nut butter)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- Assorted toppings (e.g., sprinkles, chocolate chips, chopped nuts, shredded coconut, granola)
Instructions
- Wash and core the apples. Slice each apple into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter, maple syrup, and cinnamon until smooth to create your frosting for the baked apple donuts.
- Spread a thin layer of the peanut butter frosting on one side of each apple slice.
- Arrange the apple slices on a plate or serving platter.
- Decorate your baked apple donuts with your favorite toppings.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use natural peanut butter with no added sugar.
- Get creative with your toppings! Consider dried fruit, mini marshmallows, or even a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for your baked apple donuts.
- These baked apple donuts are a great way to use up apples that are starting to get soft.
- To prevent browning, you can dip the apple slices in a mixture of lemon juice and water before frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 apple donut
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 70mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: baked apple donuts, apple donuts, no bake apple donuts, healthy apple donuts, easy apple donuts, homemade apple donuts, apple snack, peanut butter apple donuts, apple dessert, apple rings
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