Paleo Apple Cinnamon Donut Holes Recipe — Gluten-Free Bites

These paleo apple donut holes are a wonderful autumn treat: tender and cakey inside with a crisp cinnamon-sugar coating on the outside. They’re baked (not fried) and made with gluten-free, grain-free, dairy-free, and nut-free ingredients, so they’re accessible for many dietary needs while still being indulgent and flavorful.

I’m so excited to share this recipe. If you enjoyed the Healthy Pumpkin Donut Holes, you’ll love these apple cinnamon donut holes — they’re like their cozy, fruity sibling.

Warm cinnamon and apple together are a classic for a reason. These mini donut holes have a soft, cakey interior made with applesauce and coconut flour, and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar exterior that makes them irresistible. They’re baked in a mini muffin tin, rely on simple pantry staples, and come together quickly.

Ingredients you’ll need

This recipe uses applesauce combined with eggs, coconut flour, a touch of maple syrup and warm spices, then the baked mini donuts are rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mix for a satisfying crunch.

• Eggs – 2 eggs give structure and moisture. I haven’t tested vegan egg substitutes here.
• Coconut flour – a grain-free flour that yields a tender, cakey texture. Measure carefully; a little goes a long way.
• Unsweetened applesauce – homemade or plain apple puree (baby food jars are convenient) for natural apple flavor and moisture.
• Cinnamon & vanilla – warm spice and flavor enhancer.
• Maple syrup or honey – a small amount to sweeten the batter.
• Baking powder – for lift.
• Coconut sugar – combined with cinnamon to coat the donut holes. Brown or cane sugar can be substituted if preferred.

How to make the most delicious paleo apple cinnamon donut holes:

These donut holes require just a few steps, one bowl, and a mini muffin tin.

1. Preheat: Heat the oven to 160°C / 350°F and grease a mini muffin tin with coconut oil or spray.
2. Mix wet ingredients: In a medium bowl whisk together the eggs, applesauce, maple syrup (or honey), and vanilla.
3. Add dry ingredients: Stir in the coconut flour, cinnamon, and baking powder until the batter is smooth and thick.
4. Fill and bake: Spoon the batter into 16 mini muffin cavities, filling each about ¾ full. Bake for approximately 15 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Prepare coating: While the donuts bake, combine the coconut sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.
6. Coat: Allow the donut holes to cool slightly or completely, then dip or roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Optionally dust with a little coconut flour or powdered sugar.

Notes on these paleo apple donut holes:

• This recipe has been tested with coconut flour; other flours behave differently. If substituting almond flour, start with ½–¾ cup and expect different texture.
• You can coat the donut holes while they’re still warm for a melt-in-the-mouth finish, or cool them completely for a crisper coating.
• To prepare ahead for a gathering, bake them in advance and toss in the cinnamon-sugar just before serving so the coating stays crisp.
• For a lower-sugar option for kids, skip the cinnamon-sugar coating — the coconut flour and applesauce create a pleasantly sweet mini muffin on their own.

How to store leftovers

• Refrigerator: Keep the donut holes in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to 2 months.
• Defrost: Thaw at room temperature for 30–60 minutes or reheat in the microwave for about 30 seconds.

Apple health benefits

Apples add natural sweetness and nutritional value to these treats. They provide:

• Dietary fiber — a medium apple with the skin supplies nearly 5 grams of fiber.
• Vitamin C and potassium — useful micronutrients found in apples.
• Polyphenols and antioxidants — concentrated in the peel and helpful for overall health.

Other paleo desserts to try out:

Chocolate Beetroot Muffins (Grain Free + Paleo)

Dreamy Mini Paleo Pumpkin Pies

Healthy Pumpkin Mug Cake (Gluten-Free + Paleo)

If you make these paleo apple cinnamon donut holes or have questions, leave a comment and let me know how they turned out. I love hearing about tweaks and variations you try.

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Paleo Apple Cinnamon Donut Holes

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• Author: Caitlin Rule
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 16 donut holes
• Diet: Gluten Free