Apple Pie Donut Holes
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Apple pie donut holes are an irresistible treat that effortlessly merge the classic flavors of apple pie with the comforting softness of donuts. Having made these delightful bites on numerous occasions, I can attest that they not only please the palate but also evoke the nostalgic warmth of a cozy autumn day. Perfect as a sweet indulgence for family brunches, parties, or even a quiet evening snack, these donut holes come together quickly and make for a memorable addition to any dessert table.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
These apple pie donut holes stand out for their delightful simplicity and quick preparation. With just a handful of ingredients, they make baking stress-free, especially for beginners. Plus, the warm, cinnamon-spiced flavor is kid-approved, making them a surefire hit at gatherings or family meals. Whenever you want to treat your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen, this is the recipe to turn to—weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or just because!
“These little bites of heaven remind me of my grandma’s kitchen! They’re so easy to make, and my kids can’t get enough of them!” — A satisfied home baker.
Preparing Apple Pie Donut Holes
Making these donut holes is a breeze and takes only a few simple steps! Start by creating a thick dough with self-rising flour and cinnamon applesauce, then fry dollops of that dough until they are beautifully golden brown. This recipe brings together the nostalgia of apple pie while allowing you to enjoy the fun of donuts—what’s not to love?
What You’ll Need
- 1 ½ cups self-rising flour (substitutions: you can use all-purpose flour combined with baking powder if needed)
- 3/4 cup cinnamon applesauce
- Canola or vegetable oil (for frying)
- Cinnamon sugar (optional, for coating)
These ingredients are likely staples in your kitchen, making it easy to whip up these tasty treats without needing to head to the store!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the self-rising flour and cinnamon applesauce, mixing gently until a thick and cohesive dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep your donut holes tender.
- Preheat your canola or vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to 350°F. Ensure the oil is at least 2 inches deep for even frying.
- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion out 1-tablespoon mounds of the dough. Carefully drop a few mounds into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan—fry 3–4 at a time.
- Let them fry for about 2–3 minutes per side, watching for a golden-brown color and puffiness.
- Once done, remove the donut holes using a slotted spoon and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate for a minute or two.
- While still warm, roll each donut hole in cinnamon sugar until they’re fully coated.
- Serve warm for the ultimate flavor and texture experience.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
These little delights are best served warm. You can plate them in a stack with a dusting of powdered sugar or extra cinnamon sugar for an elegant touch. Pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a luscious caramel sauce for dipping. They also go wonderfully with a cup of coffee or hot cider, especially during chilly fall days.
How to Store & Freeze
To store any leftovers, keep your apple pie donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you wish to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. They should stay fresh for about a month. When ready to enjoy again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are a few tips to take your apple pie donut holes to the next level:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the dough. If it’s too cool, the donuts will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
- Don’t skip the rolling in cinnamon sugar! It adds the perfect finishing touch to enhance the flavors.
- For a spiced twist, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to your dough for a deeper flavor profile.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to try:
- Pumpkin Spice: Substitute the cinnamon applesauce with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal spin.
- Mixed Fruit: Experiment by adding different flavored applesauce or even other fruit purees, like pear or berry.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent touch, drizzle melted chocolate over the warm donut holes after rolling them in cinnamon sugar.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to make apple pie donut holes?
Preparation and cooking time combined usually take about 30-40 minutes.
Can I use different types of applesauce?
Absolutely! While cinnamon applesauce is ideal, feel free to experiment with plain applesauce or flavored varieties for unique twists.
Are these donut holes gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend instead of self-rising flour. Be sure to check that your applesauce is gluten-free as well!
Try this delightful recipe today, and watch how quickly these apple pie donut holes win over your friends and family with their warm, comforting flavors!
Apple Pie Donut Holes
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the self-rising flour and cinnamon applesauce, mixing gently until a thick and cohesive dough forms.
- Preheat your canola or vegetable oil in a deep skillet or heavy pot to 350°F. Ensure the oil is at least 2 inches deep for even frying.
- Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, portion out 1-tablespoon mounds of the dough. Carefully drop a few mounds into the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan—fry 3–4 at a time.
- Let them fry for about 2–3 minutes per side, watching for a golden-brown color and puffiness.
- Once done, remove the donut holes using a slotted spoon and let them drain on a paper towel-lined plate for a minute or two.
- While still warm, roll each donut hole in cinnamon sugar until they are fully coated.
- Serve warm for the ultimate flavor and texture experience.
