Baked Apple Cider Donuts

As autumn leaves start to fall, nothing quite encapsulates the spirit of the season like biting into a warm apple cider donut during a fun-filled day of apple picking. But what if you could recreate that same nostalgic experience at home, in a healthier way? With our Baked Apple Cider Donut recipe, you can do just that. Enjoy your favorite fall treat while easily staying on track with your weight loss plan!

Learn how to make apple cider donuts that not only satiate your sweet tooth but also to nourish your body with wholesome goodness. Featuring simple ingredients and baked to perfection, these healthy treats are the perfect fall dessert!

Reinventing the Classic Donut

Donuts are universally loved but often carry a reputation for being unhealthy. This recipe challenges that notion by infusing healthful ingredients without compromising taste. Imagine biting into a donut that’s not only mouthwateringly delicious but also packed with nutrients. Sounds too good to be true? Keep reading.

Whole Wheat Goodness

One of the significant tweaks in this recipe is the use of whole wheat pastry flour. Unlike refined flour, it retains all the nutrients from the wheat grain, including fiber, vitamins and minerals. This small change transforms the classic donut into a healthier, guilt-free indulgence.

Sweetened Naturally

Next, let’s talk about sweeteners. Apple cider, a staple of autumn, is more than just a delicious drink. It adds a natural sweetness and a hint of tanginess to dishes, enhancing their overall flavor profile. This recipe also swaps traditional sugar with coconut sugar and unsweetened applesauce.

The Magic of Greek Yogurt and Coconut Oil

Nonfat plain Greek yogurt and coconut oil add moisture and richness to the donuts. Greek yogurt also brings protein to the table, while coconut oil provides healthy fats. They work together to create a soft, moist apple cider donut that’s absolutely divine.

A Taste of Autumn

Cinnamon, nutmeg and cardamom are the spices that give these donuts their distinct autumn flavor. Not only do they make the donuts taste like fall, but they also provide health benefits. Cinnamon, for instance, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

The Finishing Touch: Cinnamon Sugar Topping

The final flourish is a coating of cinnamon sugar, adding an extra layer of sweetness and spice. This step takes the donuts from simply delicious to absolutely irresistible.

In conclusion, these apple cider donuts are a testament to the fact that nutritious and delicious can coexist. This recipe reimagines the traditional donut, packing it with wholesome ingredients and the flavors of fall. It’s time to embrace a healthier way to indulge your sweet tooth!

Serving Suggestions for your Apple Cider Donuts

These flavorful apple cider donuts are a treat on their own, but you can elevate the experience with these serving suggestions:

Pair it with Drinks

These donuts are the perfect accompaniment to a variety of beverages. For a classic pairing, serve them with a warm mug of apple cider; the flavors will complement each other beautifully. If you’re a coffee lover, these donuts alongside your morning brew can make for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.

For those who prefer tea, a spicy chai or a soothing herbal blend could be a great match. And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, try them with a glass of dessert wine like a late harvest Riesling or a port. The sweetness of the wine pairs wonderfully with the spiced donut.

Add a Fruit Compote

Adding a fruit compote can take these donuts to the next level. A homemade apple compote, made by simmering diced apples with a bit of stevia and lemon juice, would reinforce the apple flavor in the donuts. Alternatively, a berry compote could add a delicious tartness that balances the sweetness of the donut. Just spoon the compote over your donut before serving, and enjoy the burst of fruity flavor.

Serve with Ice Cream

For a truly indulgent treat, serve half of a warm donut with a scoop of your favorite ice cream. The warmth of the donut will slightly melt the ice cream, creating a delightful mix of flavors and temperatures. You could even chop the donut into cubes and mix it into the ice cream for a tasty twist! Vanilla or caramel ice cream would be particularly good choices, as they complement the flavors of the donut without overpowering them.

Nutty Topping

Adding nuts to the topping can introduce a delightful crunch and additional flavor to your apple cider donuts. The textural contrast works wonderfully with the soft, cake-like donuts. You could use pecans, walnuts or almonds – just choose your favorite! Nuts like pecans and walnuts have a natural affinity for the flavors of apple and spices, making them an excellent addition to your apple cider donuts.

First, you’ll need to toast the nuts. Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring often, until they’re golden brown and fragrant. This will intensify their flavor. Once they’re toasted, let them cool and then chop them finely. Next, prepare your cinnamon sugar topping as usual, but mix in the chopped nuts. When you dip your donuts in the topping, they’ll get coated with this delectable nutty mixture.

Remember, there’s no limit to creativity when it comes to serving these delicious apple cider donuts. So feel free to experiment and find your favorite way to enjoy them!

On a Nutrisystem weight loss plan? You can count one of these donuts as one SmartCarb and three Extras. Explore the Nutrisystem Grocery Guide for more information on counting add-ins.