Name: Healthy Applesauce Donuts (Gluten-Free, Paleo)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened applesauce; 2 large eggs; ¼ cup melted palm shortening (or coconut oil or butter); 1 tsp vanilla extract; ½ cup cassava flour (70g); ¼ cup coconut flour (25g); 1 ½ tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp paleo baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ¼ tsp salt; 3 tbsp coconut sugar; 2 tsp cinnamon

These Healthy Applesauce Donuts are a guilt-free treat that everyone can enjoy! Made with wholesome ingredients like cassava flour and sweetened naturally with applesauce, these baked donuts are gluten-free, paleo, and dairy-free. They’re the perfect snack or breakfast option for those looking for a delicious yet healthier alternative to traditional donuts. Easy to make and full of flavor, these donuts will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Healthy Applesauce Donuts (Gluten-Free, Paleo)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These applesauce donuts are a healthier spin on the classic donut, with the natural sweetness of applesauce replacing refined sugars. The use of cassava flour and coconut flour makes them paleo-friendly and gluten-free, while the cinnamon coating adds a delightful touch of spice. These donuts are light, fluffy, and have the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, with only 35 minutes from start to finish!

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

1 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 large eggs
¼ cup melted palm shortening (or coconut oil or butter)
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup cassava flour (70g)
¼ cup coconut flour (25g)
1 ½ tsp cinnamon
1 tsp paleo baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating (Optional):

3 tbsp coconut sugar
2 tsp cinnamon

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Donuts

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease 8 slots in a donut pan with shortening or oil (avocado oil works great) and set aside.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: applesauce, eggs, melted palm shortening, and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: cassava flour, coconut flour, cinnamon, paleo baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and stir with a spatula until well combined. The batter may be a bit thick and odd, but it will work!
Pipe the batter into the greased donut pan. You can use a plastic baggie as a piping bag or simply spoon the batter into the molds.
Place the donut pan in the oven and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean.
Allow the donuts to cool for 5-10 minutes in the pan, then transfer them to a wire cooling rack.

Cinnamon Sugar Coating (Optional)

In a small bowl or plate, combine coconut sugar and cinnamon.
Brush the cooled donuts with melted shortening, butter, or oil (avocado oil is a great choice).
Dip the donuts into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating the tops and sides.

Storage

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container in the fridge. They are best enjoyed within 3-4 days.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8 donuts

Variations

Add-ins: Feel free to add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the batter for added texture.
Sweetener Swap: If you prefer, you can use honey or maple syrup in place of the applesauce, but note that it will change the texture and sweetness.
Coconut Coating: For a fun twist, try rolling the donuts in shredded coconut after dipping them in the oil or butter.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle some melted dark chocolate on top of the cooled donuts for an extra indulgent treat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: These donuts can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?

Yes! If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin instead. Simply fill the cups and bake as usual. The baking time might be slightly shorter, so keep an eye on them.

Can I use a different flour instead of cassava flour?

Cassava flour works well in this recipe, but if you need a substitute, almond flour or tapioca flour may also work. Keep in mind that using a different flour might change the texture of the donuts.

Are these donuts truly paleo?

Yes, these donuts are paleo as they are made with cassava flour and coconut flour, and are sweetened naturally with applesauce and coconut sugar (if using the cinnamon sugar coating).

How can I make these donuts sweeter?

If you’d like these donuts a bit sweeter, you can increase the amount of coconut sugar in the cinnamon sugar coating or add a little more applesauce to the batter.

Can I use regular sugar instead of coconut sugar?

Yes, you can substitute regular sugar for coconut sugar in the cinnamon sugar coating, but coconut sugar is a lower glycemic option, making it a better choice for those following a paleo or gluten-free diet.

How do I know when the donuts are done?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, the donuts are ready. You can also gently press on the tops, and they should spring back.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes! These donuts freeze very well. Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply microwave or warm them in the oven.

Can I make these donuts without eggs?

If you’re looking for an egg-free version, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) or chia eggs.

Can I add chocolate chips to the batter?

Yes, feel free to fold in some mini chocolate chips into the batter for a chocolatey twist on these healthy donuts.

Why are these donuts healthier than regular donuts?

These donuts are healthier because they are baked instead of fried and are made with paleo-friendly flours like cassava and coconut flour. They’re sweetened naturally with applesauce, making them lower in refined sugar than traditional donuts.

Conclusion

These Healthy Applesauce Donuts are a perfect combination of light, fluffy texture and warm cinnamon flavor. Made with simple, wholesome ingredients and baked to perfection, they’re not only paleo and gluten-free but also easy to make! Whether you enjoy them as a breakfast treat or a sweet snack, these donuts are sure to be a hit in your household. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or coated in cinnamon sugar for a delightful treat any time!

Healthy Applesauce Donuts (Gluten-Free, Paleo)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients