Baked Apple Treats

Featured in Desserts.

Made a quick batch of baked apple donut holes for a snack. Chopped up fresh apples small, threw them into the batter, and baked 'em. The glaze on top gave them that bakery vibe, and my kids loved rolling them in cinnamon sugar. Made for a cozy, sweet treat without the hassle of frying. Perfect for mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up!
A woman wearing an apron and smiling.
Updated on Sat, 05 Apr 2025 18:09:33 GMT
Golden donut holes with a light glaze on a plate. Pin it
Golden donut holes with a light glaze on a plate. | tasteofmoms.com

These Tiny Apple Treats Put Regular Donuts To Shame

I stumbled upon these apple goodie bites while looking for something sweet without needing to fry anything. These small chunks of deliciousness have the fluffiest insides, loads of fresh apple bits, and come topped with an unbelievably tasty caramel coating. They've quickly turned into my go-to autumn snack for gatherings or just to enjoy alongside my morning brew.

Why Nobody Can Resist These Tasty Apple Nibbles

I really dig that these apple morsels come out of the oven instead of the fryer but still taste downright amazing. The apple taste really stands out and the topping makes them irresistible. And guess what? They're done in less than 60 minutes, just right when you're suddenly craving something sweet.

What You'll Need

  • Apples: I prefer Honeycrisp but any sturdy cooking apple will do just fine.
  • Applesauce: Go for the plain kind without added sugar.
  • Flour: Standard all purpose flour is just what you need.
  • Baking powder: It gives them that lovely light texture.
  • Cinnamon: For that wonderful warm flavor everyone loves.
  • Butter: I pick unsalted to manage the saltiness myself.
  • Sugar: You'll want granulated and powdered for just the right sweetness.
  • Apple cider: The secret to the most delicious topping ever.
A close-up plate of apple fritters drizzled with icing. Pin it
A close-up plate of apple fritters drizzled with icing. | tasteofmoms.com

Let's Make Some Magic

Mix It Up
Put all your dry stuff in one container and wet ingredients in another then mix them together with your apple chunks but don't stir too much.
Time to Bake
Scoop little dollops onto your cookie sheet and let them turn golden brown in the oven.
That Amazing Glaze
Stir your sugar and cider until it's smooth then paint it onto your warm treats.
The Final Touch
Stick them under the broiler for that beautiful caramelized finish then add one last layer of glaze.

My Baking Secrets

Cut those apples tiny so they'll spread out in each mouthful. Don't mix the batter too long or they won't be as light. Watch them like a hawk under the broiler as they can go too dark really quickly. Always use fresh baking powder for the best lift.

Save Some For Later

These apple treats stay good sitting out for a day or two, or stick them in your fridge for about seven days. Want to enjoy them warm? Just heat them in the oven for a bit or give them a quick microwave. They taste fantastic either way you go.

A tray of golden brown apple fritters drizzled with a white glaze. Pin it
A tray of golden brown apple fritters drizzled with a white glaze. | tasteofmoms.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Why choose baking over frying?

Baked treats are simpler to make and don't require oil, while still turning out tasty and golden.

→ Can I swap out the apples?

Sure! Any sturdy apple that's good for baking, like Granny Smith or Braeburn, will do the trick.

→ How do I stop the glaze from overcooking?

Keep an eye on the oven and turn the pan frequently while broiling. Take it out when the glaze just starts to bubble and brown.

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yep! Store at room temperature for 2 days or keep in the fridge for a week. Warm them a bit before eating.

→ Why pick unsweetened applesauce?

It keeps the batter moist and fruity without making it overly sugary, which balances with the glaze.

Baked Apple Treats

Warm, glazed apple treats that skip the fryer. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and great with coffee or tea anytime.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Ashley

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 10 Servings (30 bites)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 1½ cups Honeycrisp apples, diced and peeled.
02 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt.
03 1/4 cup unsalted butter.
04 1½ cups all-purpose flour.
05 2 cups powdered sugar.
06 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract.
07 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons apple cider or juice.
08 2 teaspoons baking powder.
09 1 large egg.
10 2 teaspoons cinnamon.
11 1/4 cup granulated sugar.
12 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce.

Instructions

Step 01

Set oven to 400°F and lightly grease your baking tray.

Step 02

Combine cinnamon, baking powder, salt, and flour.

Step 03

In a big bowl, whisk together sugar and melted butter.

Step 04

Add applesauce, egg, and vanilla to the butter-sugar mix.

Step 05

Add in the dry mix and stir just until smooth.

Step 06

Gently fold in the chopped apples.

Step 07

Spoon out 1 tablespoon scoops onto your greased sheet.

Step 08

Pop them in the oven for 10 minutes.

Step 09

Switch on the broiler.

Step 10

Whisk glaze ingredients together until it’s nice and runny.

Step 11

Brush a light layer of glaze over the tops.

Step 12

Broil for 2-4 minutes, turning the tray as needed.

Step 13

Drizzle on any leftover glaze.

Step 14

Give them 15 minutes to cool and set.

Notes

  1. Good for 2 days at room temp.
  2. Lasts a week in the fridge.
  3. Warm again at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
  4. Yields around 30 small bites.

Tools You'll Need

  • A baking tray.
  • A brush for the glaze.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy (butter).
  • Contains wheat (flour).
  • Contains eggs.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 68
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: 14 g
  • Protein: 2 g