Applesauce Donuts

Prep: 90 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Enjoy these moist, flavorful applesauce donuts with warm cinnamon and nutmeg notes, perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack, especially suited for fall gatherings and family treats.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/3 cup shortening
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup applesauce
  • 1/2 cup chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. In a large mixer bowl, combine all ingredients except nuts.
  2. Beat at medium speed until well blended.
  3. Stir in chopped nuts.
  4. Set the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  5. Take out and stir down the batter.
  6. Add additional flour if needed to reach desired consistency.
  7. Cut with a donut cutter and fry in hot grease at 375°F.
  8. Brown on one side until golden, then turn to cook the other side.
  9. Optional: Drop by teaspoonfuls if you prefer bite-sized donuts.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter donut, consider using applesauce in place of some of the shortening. You can also substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition. If you don’t have cream of tartar, use an equal amount of baking powder instead. Ensure your oil is at the right temperature for frying—375°F is ideal for a crispy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful applesauce donuts warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with a simple glaze. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making them a perfect breakfast or snack option. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. They also complement well with American recipes like apple cider.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. Reheat by placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes to restore their texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Applesauce Donuts contains roughly 132 calories, with 1g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (72% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1187mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).

132 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.1g 2% DV
Total Fat 3.6g 5% DV
Carbs 23.8g 9% DV
Fiber 1.5g 5% DV
Sugar 0.4g 1% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1187.1mg 52% DV
Potassium 3373mg 72% DV
Cholesterol 21.5mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 5.6mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 0.4mg
Calcium 122.4mg 9% DV
Iron 1.3mg 7% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of flour in this recipe?

Yes, you can try using whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. However, it may alter the texture slightly. If using a gluten-free option, ensure that it's a 1:1 substitute for best results.

What can I do if my donut batter is too thick?

If the batter is too thick, you can add a little more applesauce or a splash of milk to achieve your desired consistency. Just be cautious not to make it too runny; it should still hold its shape when cut.

How can I make these donuts healthier?

To make these donuts healthier, consider reducing the sugar by half or using a sugar substitute. Additionally, you can bake them instead of frying for a lower-fat option. Baking at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes can yield a delicious result.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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