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In recent years, zucchini has transcended its traditional role as a savory vegetable and carved out a niche in the world of sweet recipes. This versatile squash, often overlooked in desserts, has gained popularity for its ability to add moisture and subtle flavor without overpowering the dish. As health-conscious bakers seek innovative ways to incorporate more vegetables into their diets, zucchini has emerged as a star ingredient in a variety of sweet treats, including the increasingly popular cinnamon sugar zucchini donuts.

Cinnamon Sugar Zucchini Donuts

Discover the joy of baking with these delightful cinnamon sugar zucchini donuts! This unique twist on a classic treat combines zucchini's moisture and subtle sweetness with warm cinnamon for a guilt-free indulgence. Perfect for bakers of all levels, these easy-to-make donuts are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy them as a snack, breakfast, or dessert, and impress your loved ones with this creative recipe that brings vegetables into the sweet world of baking.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup grated zucchini (approximately 1 medium zucchini, thoroughly drained)

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus additional for coating)

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 large egg

1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 cup melted butter (or coconut oil for a dairy-free option)

1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Prepare the Zucchini: Using a box grater or food processor, grate the zucchini. Transfer it to a clean kitchen towel, gathering the towel around the zucchini, and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. Set the drained zucchini aside.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Whisk together until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

        Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg, applesauce, milk, vanilla extract, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

          Combine Mixtures: Gently pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, fold the ingredients together until just incorporated. Carefully fold in the prepared grated zucchini until evenly mixed throughout the batter.

            Fill the Donut Pan: Using a spoon or pastry bag, fill each cavity of the donut pan with the batter, making sure to fill them about two-thirds full to allow for rising.

              Bake the Donuts: Place the donut pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating: While the donuts are cooling, mix together 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl to create the cinnamon sugar coating.

                  Coat the Donuts: Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, roll or dip each donut into the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides for that delightful crunch and flavor.

                    Serve and Enjoy: These warm, cinnamon sugar zucchini donuts are best enjoyed fresh. Serve them immediately, or store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 30 mins | Makes 12 donuts

                        - Presentation Tips: For an enticing display, arrange the donuts on a decorative plate and sprinkle a few extra cinnamon and sugar mix around them. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color. Enjoy!