Ingredients:

• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 30 ml (2 tablespoons) water
  • 1 cup oatmeal
  • 50g (½ cup) mixed nuts, chopped (walnuts, almonds, etc.)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanillin)
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil
  • Optional: Sweetener of your choice (honey, maple syrup, or sugar to taste)

Directions:

Step 1: Make the Applesauce

1. Cook the Apples:
   Place the chopped apples and 30 ml of water in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 5-8 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples soften and break down.
2. Mash the Apples:
   Once the apples are soft, mash them with a fork or potato masher to create applesauce. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Donut Batter

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of oatmeal, 50g of chopped nuts, and a pinch of vanillin (or vanilla extract). If using a sweetener, add it at this stage.

1. Add the Wet Ingredients:
   Stir in the applesauce and avocado oil. Mix until well combined. The batter should be slightly sticky and moist.

Step 3: Shape and Bake the Donuts

1. Prepare the Mini Donut Pan:
   Lightly grease a mini donut pan with avocado oil or use a non-stick spray.
2. Spoon the Batter:
   Using a small spoon or piping bag, carefully fill each cavity of the mini donut pan with the batter, filling each about three-quarters full.

1. Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the mini donuts for 30 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy with a hot cup of tea or coffee for an afternoon treat.
• Pair with nut butter for a protein-packed snack.

Cooking Tips:

• Customize the Batter: Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for extra flavor, or sprinkle in some cinnamon for a warm spice note.
  • Use Different Nuts: Feel free to substitute walnuts and almonds with your favorite nuts like pecans, hazelnuts, or even seeds for added crunch.
  • Sweeten to Taste: If you prefer sweeter donuts, add honey, maple syrup, or another sweetener of your choice.
  • Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so check the donuts at the 25-minute mark to avoid overbaking.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Apples are high in fiber and vitamin C, promoting good digestion and immune health.
• Oatmeal provides slow-releasing energy and is a great source of fiber, keeping you full for longer.
• Nuts are packed with healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, making these donuts more nutritious.

• Avocado Oil is a heart-healthy fat that’s rich in vitamins and helps create a moist texture in the donuts.

Dietary Information:

• Vegan: These donuts are naturally vegan, containing no dairy or eggs.
• Gluten-Free: Use certified gluten-free oatmeal to make these donuts gluten-free.

• Refined Sugar-Free Option: Skip added sugar for a naturally sweetened treat or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.

Nutritional Facts (per mini donut, approx.):

• Calories: 90
• Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 20mg

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store the mini donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the baked mini donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Reheating: Warm the donuts in the microwave for 10-20 seconds or in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for a few minutes until warm.