These Mini Apple Oatmeal Donuts are a healthy, bite-sized treat perfect for snacking or breakfast. Made with applesauce, oatmeal, and nuts, they offer a delicious combination of flavors and textures. Baked instead of fried, these mini donuts are naturally sweetened by apples and can be customized with your favorite toppings or add-ins. Enjoy them fresh from the oven for a wholesome and satisfying snack!
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 12 mini donuts
Ingredients:
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 30 ml (2 tablespoons) water
- 1 cup oatmeal
- 50g (½ cup) mixed nuts, chopped (walnuts, almonds, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanillin)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- Optional: Sweetener of your choice (honey, maple syrup, or sugar to taste)
Directions:
Step 1: Make the Applesauce
- Cook the Apples:
Place the chopped apples and 30 ml of water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples soften and break down. - Mash the Apples:
Once the apples are soft, mash them with a fork or potato masher to create applesauce. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Donut Batter
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal, 50g of chopped nuts, and a pinch of vanillin (or vanilla extract). If using a sweetener, add it at this stage. - Add the Wet Ingredients:
Stir in the applesauce and avocado oil. Mix until well combined. The batter should be slightly sticky and moist.
Step 3: Shape and Bake the Donuts
- Prepare the Mini Donut Pan:
Lightly grease a mini donut pan with avocado oil or use a non-stick spray. - Spoon the Batter:
Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cavity of the mini donut pan with the batter, filling each about three-quarters full. - Bake:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the mini donuts for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Step 4: Cool and Serve
- Cool the Donuts:
Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. - Serve:
Enjoy these mini donuts warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon for a sweet topping.
- Serve with a side of fruit or yogurt for a healthy snack.
- Drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
- Pair with nut butter for a protein-packed snack.
Cooking Tips:
- Customize the Batter: Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for extra flavor, or sprinkle in some cinnamon for a warm spice note.
- Use Different Nuts: Feel free to substitute walnuts and almonds with your favorite nuts like pecans, hazelnuts, or even seeds for added crunch.
- Sweeten to Taste: If you prefer sweeter donuts, add honey, maple syrup, or another sweetener of your choice.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so check the donuts at the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples are high in fiber and vitamin C, promoting good digestion and immune health.
- Oatmeal provides slow-releasing energy and is a great source of fiber, keeping you full for longer.
- Nuts are packed with healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, making these donuts more nutritious.
- Avocado Oil is a heart-healthy fat that’s rich in vitamins and helps create a moist texture in the donuts.
Dietary Information:
- Vegan: These donuts are naturally vegan, containing no dairy or eggs.
- Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oatmeal to make these donuts gluten-free.
- Refined Sugar-Free Option: Skip added sugar for a naturally sweetened treat or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Nutritional Facts (per mini donut, approx.):
- Calories: 90
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 20mg
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store the mini donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the baked mini donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
- Reheating: Warm the donuts in the microwave for 10-20 seconds or in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for a few minutes until warm.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthy and Delicious: These donuts offer the sweetness of apples and the crunch of nuts while being packed with fiber and healthy fats.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and simple steps, they’re perfect for a quick snack or breakfast.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe by adding different nuts, spices, or even a glaze.
- Great for On-the-Go: These mini donuts are portable and perfect for a quick snack or breakfast on the run.
- Naturally Sweetened: The applesauce adds natural sweetness, making these donuts a healthier treat.
Conclusion:
These Mini Apple Oatmeal Donuts with Nuts are a fantastic combination of wholesome ingredients and delicious flavors. They’re quick to prepare, baked to perfection, and naturally sweetened with applesauce. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack, a breakfast treat, or something to enjoy with a cup of coffee, these mini donuts are the perfect solution. Try them today and enjoy a bite-sized snack packed with nutrients!