Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes
Highlighted under: Simple Sweet Recipes
Delightful and moist, these Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes are the perfect treat for any time of the day.
These Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes are a delightful way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your sweet tooth. Perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack, they are sure to become a family favorite!
Why You'll Love These Donut Holes
- Moist and flavorful with a hint of cinnamon
- A clever way to use up zucchini from your garden
- Perfect for a guilt-free treat or snack
The Versatility of Zucchini
Zucchini is a remarkably versatile vegetable that can be incorporated into various dishes, both sweet and savory. In these Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes, it adds moisture and subtle flavor, making the treats incredibly delightful. Utilizing zucchini not only enhances the texture but also contributes to the overall nutrition of the donut holes, making them a wholesome choice for any snack or dessert.
Incorporating vegetables like zucchini into baked goods is an excellent way to sneak in nutrients without compromising on taste. This approach allows you to enjoy all the flavors you love while also benefiting from the vitamins and minerals that vegetables provide. So, whether you have an abundance of zucchini from your garden or simply want to experiment with healthier baking, these donut holes offer the perfect solution.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes are wonderfully adaptable, making them suitable for various occasions. Whether you're hosting a brunch, looking for a fun after-school snack, or preparing for a cozy family gathering, these treats fit the bill perfectly. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to serve and enjoy, allowing everyone to indulge without overdoing it.
Moreover, they are a great way to bring a touch of homemade goodness to potlucks or parties. Not only will they be a hit among guests, but they also spark conversations about creative baking and the clever use of seasonal ingredients. With their delightful aroma and appealing appearance, these donut holes are sure to steal the spotlight.
Storing and Enjoying Your Donut Holes
Once you've made your delicious Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes, you might be wondering how to store them for maximum freshness. To keep them moist and flavorful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend their shelf life, consider refrigerating them, although this may slightly alter their texture.
For an extra special treat, you can also freeze the donut holes. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them to a zip-top bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Ingredients
For the Donut Holes
- 1 cup grated zucchini (squeezed dry)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix the dry ingredients separately from the wet for the best results.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a mini muffin tin by greasing it lightly.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Add the grated zucchini and mix well.
Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Fill the Muffin Tin
Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Prepare the Coating
While the donut holes are baking, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl for the coating.
Coat the Donut Holes
Once baked, remove the donut holes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Roll each donut hole in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
Enjoy your delicious Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes warm or at room temperature!
Nutritional Benefits of Zucchini
Zucchini is not only low in calories but also packed with essential nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to your diet. It's rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which helps support immune function and skin health. Additionally, zucchini is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and contributes to a feeling of fullness, making these donut holes a satisfying snack.
On top of that, zucchini provides potassium and magnesium, minerals that are crucial for heart health and muscle function. By including zucchini in your baked goods, you can enjoy a treat that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also supports your overall health.
Tips for Perfect Donut Holes
To ensure your Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes turn out perfectly every time, here are a few helpful tips. First, make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the grated zucchini. This step prevents the batter from becoming too wet and ensures that your donut holes bake up fluffy and light.
Also, avoid overmixing the batter when you combine the wet and dry ingredients; stirring until just combined is key to keeping them tender. Lastly, keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when they're done, so adjust the baking time as necessary for your oven.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen zucchini?
Yes, just ensure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
→ How do I store the donut holes?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
→ Can I bake these in a regular muffin tin?
Yes, just adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.
→ What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use a flax egg or unsweetened applesauce as a substitute.
Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes
Delightful and moist, these Cinnamon Zucchini Donut Holes are the perfect treat for any time of the day.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Simple Sweet Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 24 donut holes
What You'll Need
For the Donut Holes
- 1 cup grated zucchini (squeezed dry)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Coating
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a mini muffin tin by greasing it lightly.
In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk together the egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Add the grated zucchini and mix well.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
While the donut holes are baking, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a bowl for the coating.
Once baked, remove the donut holes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Roll each donut hole in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 2g