Cinnamon-Spiced Apple Doughnuts Recipe
Introduction
Apple doughnuts are a delightful treat that combine the sweetness of apples with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and sugar. Whether fried or baked, these doughnuts make a perfect snack or dessert for any occasion.

Ingredients
- 2 medium apples, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and cinnamon together. Fold in the chopped apples until well combined to form the doughnut batter.
- Step 2: Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat for frying, or preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) if baking. For frying, shape the batter into doughnut shapes and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. For baking, place batter into doughnut molds and bake for 15-20 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to the batter.
- Try topping with a dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
- Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex taste and texture.
Storage
Store leftover apple doughnuts 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. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven before serving to restore softness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use apple sauce instead of chopped apples?
Using apple sauce will change the texture of the doughnuts and may make them wetter. It’s best to use chopped apples for a better bite and consistency.
Are these doughnuts gluten-free?
This recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking.
PrintCinnamon-Spiced Apple Doughnuts Recipe
A delicious and simple recipe for homemade apple doughnuts, combining fresh apples with cinnamon-spiced batter for a soft, flavorful treat that can be fried or baked to perfection.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 doughnuts 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup peeled and finely chopped apples (about 1 medium apple)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Frying (Optional)
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
- Prepare dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped apples, buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Stir until all wet ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Combine batter: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the doughnuts tender.
- Frying method: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Baking method: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a doughnut pan or muffin tin. Spoon batter into the pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool for a few minutes before removing.
- Serve: Dust with extra cinnamon sugar or glaze if desired. Enjoy warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using fresh apples adds moisture and natural sweetness to the doughnuts.
- You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk plus 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar.
- Frying yields a crispier doughnut while baking offers a lighter, healthier alternative.
- These doughnuts are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days.
- Consider adding chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.
Keywords: apple doughnuts, fried doughnuts, baked doughnuts, cinnamon apple treat, homemade doughnuts, fall desserts

