Desserts · Part 3 of 3: Tips & recipe card
Easy Peanut Butter Apple Donuts for a Quick Snack Tips, FAQ & printable recipe

- Prep
- Cook
- Total
- Serves
- 4
Tips for success
To keep the apple slices from browning if you are not serving them immediately, you can soak the sliced rings in a solution of water and a tablespoon of lemon juice for about three minutes. After soaking, pat them completely dry with a paper towel before applying the peanut butter. This simple step helps maintain the visual appeal of the fruit for longer periods.
If you are serving these at a party, consider creating a variety of toppings to customize the donuts. You can set up a small station with different ingredients like shredded coconut, crushed pretzels, or dried cranberries. This allows guests to assemble their own snacks and adds a fun, interactive element to your gathering, while keeping the base recipe simple and efficient for the host.
Variations
- Apple and Honey Crunch: Replace the chocolate chips with a light drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of toasted sliced almonds for a different flavor profile that highlights the natural sweetness of the apples.
- Cinnamon Spice Rings: Mix a pinch of ground cinnamon into your peanut butter before spreading it on the apple rings. Top with a few raisins or dried cranberries for a warm, spiced snack.
Storage and make-ahead
- Fridge
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours. Beyond this, the apples will begin to oxidize and lose their crisp texture.
These apple donuts are best enjoyed immediately after preparation to ensure the apples remain crisp and fresh. If you must store them, place them in a single layer in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out or absorbing other odors from the refrigerator.
Keep in mind that the apples may soften slightly over time when in contact with the peanut butter, so consume them within a few hours for the best texture.
You can prepare the apple rings ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator in a sealed plastic bag with a damp paper towel to maintain their freshness.
However, it is highly recommended to spread the peanut butter and add the chocolate chips just before serving. Doing this ensures that the apples remain crunchy and the peanut butter maintains its ideal, creamy consistency, preventing the snack from becoming soggy.
Serving ideas
Serve these apple donuts on a clean, chilled platter to keep the fruit refreshing and crisp. They are perfect as a quick dessert or a snack during a casual get-together.
Arrange them in a single layer so they are easy to pick up without the toppings getting messy. You can pair them with a glass of cold milk or a cup of herbal tea to complement the flavors of the peanut butter and chocolate.
For a more formal presentation, you can serve the donuts alongside fresh berries or other sliced fruits to create a colorful fruit platter. Providing small napkins is recommended, as the peanut butter can be a bit sticky to handle.
Whether you are serving them to guests or enjoying them as a quick treat, these apple donuts are a delightful and simple snack that is sure to be appreciated by everyone.
Frequently asked questions
Can these apple donuts be made ahead of time?
What is the best way to keep the apples from browning?
Can other nut butters be used instead of peanut butter?
Easy Peanut Butter Apple Donuts for a Quick Snack

Ingredients
- 2 large red apples, cored and sliced into 1/2-inch rings
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
Instructions
- Core the apples and slice them horizontally into uniform 1/2-inch thick rings. Place the rings on a parchment-lined baking sheet to keep them stable and organized while you prepare the toppings.
- Using a small knife, spread an even layer of creamy peanut butter over the top surface of each apple ring. Ensure the edges are covered for a balanced flavor profile in every bite.
- Carefully scatter the mini chocolate chips over the peanut butter-coated apple rings. Press them down slightly to ensure they adhere to the peanut butter so they do not fall off during serving.
Estimated nutrition per serving
- Calories
- 180
- Protein
- 4.5 g
- Carbohydrates
- 18 g
- Fat
- 11 g
- Fiber
- 3.5 g
- Sugar
- 12 g
- Sodium
- 75 mg
This recipe is based on a short cooking video and is published under the pen name Clara Weller. It was checked before publication, but errors can slip through. Nutrition, when shown, is an estimate. Read more in our editorial policy and on our food safety page.






