Applesauce Drop Doughnuts Recipe

These quick and easy applesauce drop doughnuts are ready in minutes! The batter comes together while your oil heats up – perfect for a busy weeknight treat. We’ve found that letting them sit for 5-6 hours actually enhances the flavor, making them even better than warm! Get ready for a delightful, subtly spiced doughnut experience.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Calories 121.7 kcal
Protein 5g
Rating 3.8 (4 Reviews)
Applesauce Drop Doughnuts

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Applesauce Drop Doughnuts

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) softened butter
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (plus 1/2 cup for rolling)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup applesauce
  • Vanilla Extract
  • All Purpose Flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • About 1 inch of oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)

How to Make Applesauce Drop Doughnuts

  1. In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup (1 stick) softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add 2 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  3. Beat in 1 cup applesauce and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1/2 cup milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  6. Heat about 1 inch of oil in an electric skillet or deep-fat fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of batter into the hot oil, a few at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
  8. Fry for approximately 1 minute per side, or until golden brown, turning gently with a slotted spoon.
  9. Remove doughnuts from oil and drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil.
  10. While still warm, roll the doughnuts in 1/2 cup granulated sugar.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

6 g

Sugar

21g

Fat

5g

Carbs

7g