These Mini Apple Oatmeal Donuts with Nuts are a delightful and healthy treat perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. Packed with apples, oats, and nuts, they provide a delicious, nutritious option without refined sugars or dairy. Whether you’re craving something sweet or looking for a wholesome bite, these donuts fit the bill. Plus, they are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite nuts or dried fruits.
Ingredients
Here’s what you need to make these nutritious mini apple oatmeal donuts:
- 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 30 ml (2 tablespoons) water
- 1 cup oatmeal
- 50g (½ cup) mixed nuts, chopped (such as 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: In a small saucepan, combine the chopped apples and 30 ml of water. 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 a smooth 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 mixed nuts, and a pinch of vanillin (or vanilla extract). If you’re using a sweetener, add it at this stage.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Stir in the applesauce and avocado oil. Mix until everything is 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 non-stick spray to prevent the donuts from sticking.
- 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
These mini apple oatmeal donuts are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of toppings and sides:
- Dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon for a sweet finish.
- Serve alongside fruit or a dollop of yogurt for a healthy snack.
- Drizzle with a little honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Enjoy them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Pair with nut butter for a protein-packed snack.
Cooking Tips
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect mini apple oatmeal donuts:
- 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
These donuts are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients that make them a healthier alternative to traditional donuts:
- Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, which help with digestion and support immune health.
- Oatmeal provides slow-releasing energy and is a great source of fiber, keeping you full for longer.
- Nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, making these donuts a more nutritious snack.
- 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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use regular-sized donuts instead of a mini donut pan?
Yes, you can use a regular-sized donut pan, but you may need to adjust the baking time. Regular-sized donuts may require an additional 5-10 minutes in the oven.
Can I use other oils?
If you don’t have avocado oil, you can substitute it with other neutral oils like coconut oil or vegetable oil.
Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Absolutely! These donuts can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving for the best texture.
Can I make these donuts without nuts?
Yes, if you have a nut allergy or prefer not to use nuts, you can skip them or replace them with seeds or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added texture and flavor.
Are these donuts gluten-free?
Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oatmeal, these donuts are completely gluten-free!
Conclusion
These Mini Apple Oatmeal Donuts with Nuts are a fantastic option for anyone looking for a healthier donut recipe. With wholesome ingredients, no refined sugar, and a perfect balance of flavors, they make for a delicious breakfast or snack. Customize them with your favorite nuts or dried fruits, and enjoy a nutritious treat that’s as satisfying as it is tasty. Try them today and experience the perfect balance of flavors and textures!