Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes
Highlighted under: Sweet Bakes
Deliciously soft and spiced, these Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes are a delightful treat perfect for any time of the day.
These Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes are a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your sweet tooth. The combination of cinnamon and zucchini creates a moist and flavorful treat that everyone will love!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and fluffy texture with a hint of spice
- A great way to use up surplus zucchini from your garden
- Perfect bite-sized snacks for kids and adults alike
The Perfect Snack for Any Occasion
Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes are not just a dessert; they're versatile enough to be enjoyed as a snack any time of the day. Whether you're looking for a mid-morning pick-me-up or a delightful treat after dinner, these donut holes fit the bill perfectly. Their bite-sized nature makes them ideal for kids' lunchboxes or as a quick snack on the go. Plus, the warmth of cinnamon adds a comforting touch that makes these donut holes even more inviting.
What makes these donut holes particularly appealing is their ability to cater to various dietary preferences. They are made with wholesome ingredients, including grated zucchini, which not only enhances the flavor but also packs in essential nutrients. This means you can indulge without the guilt, making them a great option for health-conscious individuals and families alike.
A Creative Way to Use Zucchini
If you have an abundance of zucchini from your garden or the local farmer's market, this recipe is a fantastic way to put it to use. Grating zucchini and incorporating it into baked goods is a popular method that adds moisture and a subtle flavor without overpowering other ingredients. You'll hardly notice it's there, but your taste buds will appreciate the added texture and richness it brings to these donut holes.
Not only does this recipe help you avoid waste, but it also introduces a nutritious element to your treats. Zucchini is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals, making these donut holes a guilt-free indulgence. This clever use of zucchini not only benefits your health but also makes your baking adventures more sustainable.
Tips for Perfect Donut Holes
To ensure that your Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes come out perfectly every time, it’s essential to manage the moisture content of the zucchini. After grating, be sure to wring out the excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel. This step prevents the batter from becoming too wet, which can lead to dense donut holes. A light and fluffy texture is key, and controlling moisture is one of the simplest ways to achieve that.
Another important tip is to avoid overmixing the batter once you combine the wet and dry ingredients. Mixing just until combined allows the donut holes to rise properly and stay tender. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, resulting in tougher donut holes. Keep these tips in mind for a delicious outcome every time you bake!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to make your Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes:
Ingredients
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best results!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your delicious donut holes:
Prepare the Zucchini
Grate the zucchini using a box grater and set it aside. Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together the grated zucchini, applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Bake the Donut Holes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin. Using a small scoop, fill each muffin cup with the batter. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Dust
Allow the donut holes to cool slightly before dusting them with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Enjoy your homemade Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes!
Storage and Serving Suggestions
These Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they can also be stored for later enjoyment. Place any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Just ensure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to three months.
When it comes to serving, these donut holes are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing them with a warm beverage, such as coffee or tea. For an added touch, consider drizzling them with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or serving them with a side of fruit preserves. These enhancements can take your snack time to the next level!
Variations to Try
While the original recipe for Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes is fantastic, don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. For a chocolate twist, you could add mini chocolate chips into the batter. The combination of chocolate and cinnamon creates a decadent treat that chocolate lovers will adore. Alternatively, consider adding nuts or dried fruit for added texture and flavor complexity.
For those looking to reduce sugar, you can substitute the granulated sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that liquid sweeteners may alter the consistency slightly, so adjust the flour accordingly. These variations not only enhance the flavor but also allow you to customize the recipe to suit your dietary needs and personal preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.
→ How should I store leftover donut holes?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ What can I use instead of applesauce?
You can replace applesauce with mashed banana or yogurt for a similar effect.
Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes
Deliciously soft and spiced, these Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes are a delightful treat perfect for any time of the day.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Sweet Bakes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 donut holes
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
How-To Steps
Grate the zucchini using a box grater and set it aside. Make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Whisk together until well blended.
In another bowl, mix together the grated zucchini, applesauce, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin tin. Using a small scoop, fill each muffin cup with the batter. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Allow the donut holes to cool slightly before dusting them with powdered sugar. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 70mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 24g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 2g