Name: Apple Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts with Brown Butter Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3/4 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/3 cup packed light brown sugar; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for browning, use 2 tablespoons for doughnut batter); 1 large egg; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1/2 cup peeled and grated fresh apple; 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar; Pinch of salt; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 3 to 4 tablespoons whole milk

Jump to Recipe

If you are looking for a cozy, irresistible treat that combines the warmth of fall spices with the fresh crispness of apples, then the Apple Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts with Brown Butter Glaze are an absolute must-try. These doughnuts deliver a soft, tender crumb infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, while the grated apple adds a juicy sweetness that perfectly balances the spices. Topped with a luxurious brown butter glaze that’s buttery, nutty, and just sweet enough, this recipe is a delight for your taste buds and an impressive dessert or snack to share with loved ones.

Apple Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts with Brown Butter Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for the Apple Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts with Brown Butter Glaze is simple but essential to achieving that perfect blend of flavors and textures. Each item brings something special to the table—from the warm spices that create depth to the brown butter that gives a glorious nutty richness.

All-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender doughnut with just the right structure.
Baking powder and baking soda: Help the doughnuts rise and become fluffy.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
Ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, and ground ginger: These spices create that quintessential apple pie flavor profile.
Light brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a touch of molasses flavor for complexity.
Unsalted butter: Used for browning to develop a nutty, caramelized taste in the glaze and doughnuts.
Large egg: Binds the ingredients together and lends moisture.
Buttermilk: Adds tang and tenderness to the doughnuts.
Pure vanilla extract: Provides warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
Peeled and grated fresh apple: The star ingredient for juicy bursts and natural sweetness inside the doughnuts.
Powdered sugar: Forms the base of the glossy, sweet brown butter glaze.
Whole milk: Adjusts the consistency of the glaze for the perfect spreadability.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts with Brown Butter Glaze

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Doughnut Pan

Start by positioning a rack in the upper third of your oven and preheating it to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease your doughnut pan so the doughnuts won’t stick and are easy to remove once baked. Preparing your tools ahead makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and brown sugar. This blend of dry ingredients sets the stage for the warmth and sweetness that define these doughnuts.

Step 3: Brown the Butter

In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt all the butter you’ll need (including the portion for the glaze). As the butter bubbles and pops, the water content evaporates, and it starts to brown, releasing a heavenly nutty aroma. Be vigilant, as it can go from browned to burnt quickly. Once done, transfer the browned butter—and the flavorful brown bits—to a small bowl without delay.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Whisk together the egg, buttermilk, and vanilla in a small bowl. Then whisk in 2 tablespoons of the browned butter you just made to infuse the batter with that rich flavor. The buttermilk’s acidity and butter’s nuttiness will ensure the doughnuts stay moist and tender.

Step 5: Make the Batter

Add all the wet ingredients to the dry mix in one go, then fold in the grated apple gently. Stir just until there are no dry flour pockets—resist the urge to overmix to avoid tough doughnuts. The grated apple gives delightful texture and natural sweetness throughout each bite.

Step 6: Fill and Bake

Using a small spoon, dollop the batter into your prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. This allows room for the doughnuts to rise perfectly. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until they spring back gently when touched, keeping an eye to prevent overbaking. Once done, let them cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 7: Prepare the Brown Butter Glaze

While the doughnuts cool, make the glaze by whisking powdered sugar and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of browned butter, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of milk, stirring until smooth. Add more milk gradually if you prefer a thinner glaze that drapes beautifully over the doughnuts.

Step 8: Glaze and Let Set

When the doughnuts are completely cool, spread each one with the luscious brown butter glaze using a butter knife. For that perfect finish, chill them for about 15 minutes to allow the glaze to set up nicely. This final step ensures a shiny, irresistibly sweet coating.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts with Brown Butter Glaze

Garnishes

These doughnuts hold up beautifully to simple garnishes like a dusting of cinnamon sugar or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans for crunch. For an extra festive touch, grated apple peel curls or a light drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pairing these doughnuts with a warm cup of chai tea or a rich latte complements the spices and butteriness perfectly. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt to balance indulgence with freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming twist, serve these Apple Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts with Brown Butter Glaze stacked on a tiered cake stand at gatherings. Alternatively, place each doughnut in a pretty paper liner or box to gift as sweet favors—guaranteed smiles follow this thoughtful presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness. They’ll keep well for up to two days, though the glaze is best enjoyed fresh the day they are made.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these delicious doughnuts later, freeze them without glaze. Wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze well for up to two months, allowing you to pull out a treat whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen doughnuts at room temperature, then warm gently in a 300-degree oven for about 5 minutes. Add glaze after reheating for the best texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the doughnuts rubbery.

FAQs

Can I substitute the buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes, and use as a substitute. This helps maintain the tender crumb by providing acidity.

What type of apple works best?

Firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal. They hold their texture and provide a lovely balance to the spices and sweetness of the doughnuts.

Can these doughnuts be made gluten-free?

You can try swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, but results may vary. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum to help with structure.

Is it possible to make these doughnuts without a doughnut pan?

While a doughnut pan gives the classic shape, you could use a muffin tin to bake the batter and then cut out doughnut shapes after baking, but the texture and presentation will differ.

How long does the brown butter glaze keep?

The glaze can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Simply give it a quick whisk before using, and add a splash of milk if it thickens too much.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about the combination of apples, cinnamon, and buttery glaze that makes the Apple Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts with Brown Butter Glaze a cozy, irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, they’re sure to become a beloved favorite. So, dust off that doughnut pan and get ready to fill your kitchen with the comforting aroma of baked goodness—you won’t regret sharing this special recipe with friends and family.

Apple Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts with Brown Butter Glaze Recipe

★★★★★

4.9 from 25 reviews

Author: Thomas
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 8 doughnuts 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Apple Cinnamon Baked Doughnuts with Brown Butter Glaze are a delightful twist on classic doughnuts, combining warm spices, grated fresh apple, and a rich brown butter glaze for a soft, flavorful treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare: Place a rack in the upper third of the oven and preheat to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a doughnut pan and set aside.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, ground ginger, and light brown sugar. Set aside.
Brown the Butter: In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt all three tablespoons of unsalted butter. As the butter melts, it will crackle and pop as water evaporates; soon it will stop and start to brown, producing a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and immediately transfer the browned butter, including the brown bits, into a small bowl.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Measure out 2 tablespoons of the browned butter and whisk it into this wet mixture.
Make the Batter: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients all at once. Add the grated fresh apple and stir gently until there are no visible flour streaks and the batter is evenly combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the doughnuts tender rather than rubbery.
Fill the Doughnut Pan: Using a small spoon, dollop the batter into the prepared doughnut pan cavities. Smooth the batter and fill each cavity about three-quarters full.
Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent overbaking. The doughnuts are done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool Doughnuts: Remove the doughnut pan from the oven and allow the doughnuts to cool for a few minutes in the pan. Then invert them onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and a pinch of salt. Add 2 tablespoons of the browned butter, vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of whole milk. Whisk until smooth, adding additional milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches a spreadable consistency.
Glaze the Doughnuts: Once the doughnuts are completely cooled, use a butter knife to spread the brown butter glaze over the top of each doughnut evenly.
Set the Glaze: Place glazed doughnuts in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to allow the glaze to harden slightly before serving. These doughnuts are best enjoyed the day they are made for optimal freshness and texture.

Notes

Use fresh grated apple for best flavor and moisture balance in the doughnuts.
Be careful not to overbake—the doughnuts should be tender and moist.
Brown the butter slowly and watch it closely to prevent burning and to develop the nutty flavor.
Make sure doughnuts are completely cool before glazing to prevent glaze from melting.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 days for best taste.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American