Indulge in the guilt-free decadence of these **Heart-Healthy Caramel Donuts**, a wholesome twist on a sweet classic. Made with nutrient-packed whole wheat flour, protein-rich Greek yogurt, and naturally sweetened with applesauce and brown sugar substitutes, these baked donuts skip the deep frying without compromising on flavor. A luscious drizzle of warm **date syrup** adds a rich, caramel-like finish, while optional chopped pecans lend a satisfying crunch. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and baked to fluffy perfection in just 10 minutes, these donuts are a delightful treat for breakfast or dessert. Quick, easy, and packed with wholesome ingredients, these **low-calorie, heart-friendly donuts** are sure to become your new favorite guilt-free indulgence!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
In a separate medium bowl, mix the unsweetened applesauce, Greek yogurt, egg, vanilla extract, olive oil, and brown sugar substitute until smooth.
Gradually add the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Stir in low-fat milk slowly, just until the batter is smooth and evenly mixed.
Fill the prepared donut pan with the batter, filling each slot about three-quarters full.
Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed.
Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the donuts are cooling, gently warm the date syrup in a small saucepan over low heat until it's slightly thinned.
Drizzle the warm date syrup over the cooled donuts and sprinkle with chopped pecans if using.
Enjoy your heart-healthy caramel donuts warm or store them in an airtight container for up to two days.
Calories |
1853 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 61.7 g | 79% | |
| Saturated Fat | 10.3 g | 52% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 4.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 234 mg | 78% | |
| Sodium | 1600 mg | 70% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 293.1 g | 107% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 28.8 g | 103% | |
| Total Sugars | 150.3 g | ||
| Protein | 50.2 g | 100% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.6 mcg | 13% | |
| Calcium | 514 mg | 40% | |
| Iron | 10.2 mg | 57% | |
| Potassium | 1398 mg | 30% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.