Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts Recipe

There’s something about the aroma of freshly baked apples and cinnamon that instantly warms your heart, and these Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts deliver just that feeling with every soft, crumb-topped bite. Imagine biting into a tender donut packed with juicy apple pieces, layered with a buttery spiced crumb, and finished with a gentle snow of powdered sugar. Whether you’re serving them as a breakfast treat, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a sweet snack, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between cozy comfort and impressive bakery flair. Your mornings (and mood) are about to get a lot brighter thanks to these Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts is how everyday ingredients come together in the most magical way. Each element matters—from the humble pancake mix that builds the foundation to the fresh apple pieces that make every bite juicy and flavorful. These simple pantry staples transform into donuts that taste like they belong in a boutique bakery window.

• Pancake mix: The shortcut star—pre-mixed baking goodness ensures the donuts are light and fluffy, no need to fuss with leavening agents!
• Brown sugar (for donuts): Adds deep, caramel sweetness and a wonderful moistness—don’t underestimate this unassuming staple.
• Cinnamon: The heart of the classic apple-donut flavor profile; its warmth cozies up every bite.
• Nutmeg: Whisper-soft but vital; nutmeg gives extra depth and a nostalgic bakery aroma.
• Milk: The moisture maker—any milk works, but 1 percent creates a lovely soft crumb without heaviness.
• Egg: Brings richness and helps bind everything together for that perfect donut bite.
• Butter (melted, for donuts): Ensures your donuts bake up tender and buttery—truly irresistible.
• Apple (finely diced): The star of the show! Tiny apple bits melt into each donut, providing juicy bites and fresh autumn flavor.
• Butter (softened, for crumb): This is what gives the crumb its irresistible melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Brown sugar (for crumb): Supplies rich, caramel notes and a perfect hint of sweetness on the topping.
• All-purpose flour (for crumb): Gives the crumb topping its signature texture—soft, crumbly, and just right.
• Cinnamon (for crumb): Layers in another pop of spice right on top where you’ll really notice it.
• Nutmeg (for crumb): Complements the cinnamon and adds a bakery-style scent and complexity.
• Powdered sugar: That magical finishing touch—just a sprinkle creates a stunning bakery look and a touch of extra sweetness.

How to Make Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Donut Pan

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and let it warm up while you get everything ready. Generously spray your donut pans with nonstick cooking spray, making sure every nook and cranny is coated—this makes popping out your finished Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts a total breeze when they’re done.

Step 2: Mix the Donut Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the pancake mix, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is uniform and lump-free. Pour in the milk, add the egg, and stir in the melted butter. Mix everything until it’s smooth and creamy without over-beating. Finally, fold in the diced apples, distributing them evenly for juicy flavor throughout every donut.

Step 3: Fill the Donut Molds

Spoon the apple-packed batter into a large zipper or piping bag, snip off one corner (large enough for the apple pieces to pass through!), and carefully pipe the mixture into each donut mold—fill them about three-quarters full. If you’d rather, use a spoon to gently ease the batter in; either method works beautifully.

Step 4: Make the Cinnamon-Nutmeg Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, blend the softened butter, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg together. Use a fork to combine—don’t press too hard, you want sweet little crumbs, not a paste! These crumbs will create that crave-worthy bakery-style topping you’ll fall in love with.

Step 5: Top and Bake

Shower each batter-filled donut mold with a generous pinch of the crumb topping, making sure no donut is left uncovered. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the donuts are risen, set, and the crumb topping is golden and fragrant.

Step 6: Cool and Finish

Once out of the oven, let the Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts cool in their pans for 5 minutes—this helps them firm up and prevents sticking. Use an offset spatula to gently release each donut, then add a dusting of powdered sugar if you like. They are wonderful warm, but still delicious at room temperature, too!

How to Serve Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts

Garnishes

For an extra touch of bakery magic, dust your Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts with a flurry of powdered sugar right before serving. For special occasions, you can even drizzle a little maple glaze or add a few thin apple slices on the side for a pop of color and crunch.

Side Dishes

Pair these donuts with a steaming mug of coffee, chai, or spiced apple cider to enhance their cozy flavor. For breakfast or brunch spreads, serve them alongside creamy yogurt, fresh fruit, or a savory egg dish—contrasting flavors will make your Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts shine even brighter!

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the donuts on a rustic wooden tray for a country-chic breakfast vibe, or stack them in a tiered cake stand for a festive display. For parties, individually wrap donuts in wax paper or small boxes and tie with baker’s twine—a sweet treat for friends to take home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts fresh by placing them in an airtight container at room temperature; they’ll hold their tasty, moist texture for up to three days. If your kitchen is very warm, pop them in the fridge to prevent the crumb topping from getting too soft.

Freezing

Yes, you can freeze Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts! Once fully cooled, wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to two months. Simply let them thaw at room temperature overnight before serving.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, pop a donut in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or reheat a batch in a low (300°F) oven for 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh powdered sugar after reheating for the ultimate bakery-fresh feel.

FAQs

Can I use a different fruit instead of apples?

Absolutely! Try substituting pears or even blueberries for a fruity twist, but keep the fruit pieces small to enjoy the same tender texture. For autumn flavor, pears are especially lovely in these Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts.

Do I need a donut pan to make this recipe?

While a donut pan gives you that classic look, you can use a muffin tin in a pinch! Just adjust the baking time slightly and keep an eye out for golden edges and set centers.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes, just swap out the pancake mix and all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free versions. Look for blends that measure cup-for-cup to ensure optimal results in your Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts.

What kind of apples work best?

Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for a tangy pop or Honeycrisp for balanced sweetness and crunch. Softer apples like Gala will still work but tend to melt into the donut for a softer bite.

Is it possible to double the recipe for a crowd?

Totally! This recipe doubles easily—just make sure you have enough pans (or bake in batches), and give the crumb topping a quick stir before sprinkling to keep it crumbly and fresh.

Final Thoughts

There’s really nothing like biting into a warm, home-baked donut that’s as comforting as it is impressive. Easy Baked Apple Crumb Donuts will become a go-to staple in your kitchen—they’re fun to make, even more fun to share, and guaranteed to bring smiles to the breakfast table. Bake a batch soon and experience just how magical your kitchen can feel!

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