Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (120g) whole wheat pastry flour (or spelt flour)
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) unsweetened applesauce
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) maple syrup
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) milk (dairy or non-dairy, like almond milk)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) melted coconut oil or olive oil
  • 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar (or a powdered erythritol blend for a lower-sugar option)
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: Food coloring (natural options like beet juice powder or turmeric)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or spray your donut pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together applesauce, maple syrup, eggs, vanilla extract, milk, and melted oil.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix!
  5. Transfer the batter to a piping bag or Ziploc bag (cut off a corner). Pipe the batter into each donut cavity, filling it about two-thirds full.
  6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
  9. Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze, letting the excess drip off. Place back on the wire rack to let the glaze set. Add sprinkles or other toppings, if desired, before the glaze sets.