There’s something utterly delightful about the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked doughnuts wafting through your home. And when those doughnuts happen to be applesauce doughnuts, you know you’re in for a treat that’s both cozy and delicious. These soft, pillowy doughnuts are infused with the sweet and tangy flavors of applesauce, making them a perfect fall indulgence or a delightful anytime treat. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and get ready to whip up a batch of these scrumptious applesauce doughnuts that will have your family and friends begging for more!
**Applesauce Doughnuts**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a doughnut pan with cooking spray or butter.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. **Combine Wet Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the applesauce, milk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. **Create Batter:** Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
5. **Fill the Pan:** Spoon the batter into a piping bag or a large resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into the prepared doughnut pan, filling each mold about two-thirds full.
6. **Bake:** Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the doughnuts spring back when lightly touched.
7. **Cool and Serve:** Remove the pan from the oven and let the doughnuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. **Optional Glaze:** For an extra touch of sweetness, you can drizzle the cooled doughnuts with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and a little milk, flavored with a hint of vanilla.
9. **Enjoy:** Serve the applesauce doughnuts warm with a cup of coffee or tea, or pack them in a lunchbox for a delightful midday treat.
These applesauce doughnuts are a perfect way to embrace the cozy flavors of fall or add a touch of sweetness to any day of the year. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion or just because, these pillowy treats are sure to be a hit with everyone lucky enough to try them. So, get ready to savor the warm, comforting taste of homemade applesauce doughnuts straight from your own kitchen!