Delicious Apple Pie Donut Holes Recipe

If you’re looking for a delightful fusion of flavors that truly captures the essence of fall, look no further than these scrumptious Apple Pie Donut Holes. Imagine the comfort of warm apple pie wrapped in a soft, fluffy donut shell, all packed into a perfect bite-sized treat. Perfect for a cozy afternoon snack or a special addition to any gathering, these donut holes deliver a delightful crunch on the outside and a soft, tender texture on the inside. The cinnamon applesauce not only enhances the flavor but also keeps them moist, making each bite a heartfelt experience.

Each donut hole is rolled in cinnamon sugar, adding an extra layer of sweetness that will transport your taste buds to a quaint autumn orchard. Plus, they are simple to make, taking only about 30 minutes from start to finish. With just a handful of ingredients, you can easily whip up these delicious treats that are sure to impress friends and family alike. You’ll love how they capture the essence of apple pie while providing a fun and shareable dessert option!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Donut Holes

• Easy to Make: With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can succeed!
• Quick Recipe: Ready to devour in just 30 minutes, perfect for spontaneous snack cravings.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for parties, gatherings, or simply a delightful afternoon treat.
• Fall Flavors: Captures the warmth of apple pie in a portable format.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A delicious treat that caters to different dietary preferences.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the delightful world of Apple Pie Donut Holes, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen. Start by gathering your ingredients: self-rising flour, cinnamon applesauce, canola or vegetable oil, and cinnamon sugar. A mixing bowl and a sturdy spoon will be your primary tools for this recipe. If you have a small cookie scoop, it will make portioning the dough a breeze. Also, have a slotted spoon handy for extracting the donut holes once they are perfectly fried.

For frying, you’ll need a deep skillet or a heavy pot to ensure even heating. Make sure you have enough canola or vegetable oil to cover the donut holes while frying (at least 5 centimeters deep). It’s crucial to monitor the oil temperature with a reliable thermometer to achieve that perfect golden brown finish. Now that your workspace is set, let’s get frying!

Ingredients

• 190 grams self-rising flour
• 180 millilitres cinnamon applesauce
• Canola oil or vegetable oil, for deep frying
• Cinnamon sugar, for rolling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour with the cinnamon applesauce. Mix gently until a thick, cohesive dough forms. Be cautious not to overmix, as maintaining a light texture is crucial for fluffy donut holes. The cinnamon applesauce not only adds flavor but also contributes to the moistness of the donuts.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Pour at least 5 centimeters of canola or vegetable oil into your deep skillet or heavy pot. Heat the oil to 175°C (347°F). Monitoring the temperature is essential; too hot and your donuts will burn on the outside but remain raw on the inside, and too cool will result in greasy, soggy donuts.

Step 3: Fry the Donut Holes

Using a small cookie scoop or a spoon, gather about one tablespoon of dough and carefully drop it into the hot oil. Fry in batches of 3 to 4, ensuring you have enough space for them to puff up. Cook each batch for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. Turn them gently to achieve an even golden brown color all around. Once they are beautifully golden and fragrant, remove them from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them onto a plate lined with kitchen paper. This will help absorb any excess oil and keep them nice and non-greasy.

Step 4: Roll in Cinnamon Sugar

After allowing the donut holes to cool for 1 to 2 minutes, it’s time for the fun part! While they are still warm, roll each donut hole in the cinnamon sugar until they are evenly coated. The heat from the donuts will help the sugar adhere, creating a delightful crust that enhances the flavor.

Variations

• Protein: Add diced cooked bacon or sausage for a savory twist! Just sprinkle them inside the dough before frying.
• Vegetables: For a different flavor profile, try adding shredded carrots or zucchini for a sweet-savory combination.
• Spices: Experiment with adding nutmeg or ginger to the dough for an extra kick of flavor. You can also mix different spices into the cinnamon sugar for a unique twist.

Cooking Notes

• Ensure the oil is adequately heated to avoid greasy or bland donut holes.
• Monitor the cooking time per batch to avoid burning or undercooking.
• Feel free to get creative with fillings, such as injecting apple pie filling after frying for an extra surprise!
• Allow donut holes to cool slightly before rolling them in cinnamon sugar for better adherence.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with a cup of hot apple cider or your favorite coffee for a delightful treat.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert option.

Tips

• Use a candy thermometer for accurate temperature readings while frying.
• If you don’t have self-rising flour, you can make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt.
• Store any leftover donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness.
• Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavored applesauces, such as spiced or caramel, to change up the flavor profile.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving (2 donut holes)
• Protein: 2 grams
• Sodium: 50 milligrams

FAQs

Can I make these donut holes in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for a few hours before frying. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to fry them fresh.

What if I don’t have cinnamon applesauce?

You can easily substitute regular applesauce and add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to achieve a similar flavor.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

While the texture will differ from deep-fried donut holes, you can try baking them at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes until golden. Just be sure to grease the baking tray well!

How should I store leftover donut holes?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in an oven or air fryer for the best texture.

Conclusion

Apple Pie Donut Holes are not just a treat; they’re an experience that brings smiles and warmth to any gathering. Their delightful blend of flavors and comforting texture makes them perfect for any occasion, from cozy family nights to vibrant parties. Don’t miss the opportunity to bring this enchanting recipe into your kitchen! And when you do, feel free to experiment with different spices and fillings to make them your own. We’d love to hear how your donut holes turned out, so leave a comment below or share your variations! Happy frying!