Baked Apple Cider Donuts are the perfect treat to usher in the fall season! Soft, warm, and full of delicious apple flavor, these donuts are a unique way to enjoy apple cider beyond just sipping it in a cozy mug. With a warm sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar on top, they offer an inviting aroma while baking that melts the heart.

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I still remember the first time I took a bite of these donuts. It was on a crisp autumn morning, and their warm, soft texture reminded me of childhood visits to the local apple orchards. The combination of apple cider and warming spices fills each bite with joy, making them a delightful addition to any breakfast or brunch. They are incredibly simple to whip up, which also means more time for enjoying them with family and friends. You’re sorely missing out if you haven’t tried making your own baked apple cider donuts yet! Dive into the recipe and taste the magic for yourself.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy mornings.
Irresistible Flavor: Bursting with warm spices and apple goodness.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Adorned with a cinnamon sugar coating that’s hard to resist.
Flexible Serving: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon snack.
Diet-Friendly Options: Can be easily adapted for gluten-free baking without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 1/2 cups apple cider: This is the star ingredient! It adds an exceptional apple flavor. Make sure to use a fresh, high-quality cider for the best taste.
2 cups cake flour: Cake flour keeps these donuts light and fluffy. If you don’t have it, all-purpose flour will work, but the texture may be denser.
2 tsp baking powder: This helps the donuts rise, ensuring they are soft and airy.
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon: A must for that classic fall flavor. Consider using fresh-ground for a stronger taste.
1 tsp salt: Just a pinch enhances all the other flavors.
1/4 tsp nutmeg: Perfect for that warm, cozy autumn vibe. If you don’t have nutmeg, you can skip it or substitute with allspice.
1/2 cup milk: Whole milk gives the best richness, but you can substitute it with almond or oat milk if necessary.
1/2 cup brown sugar: For warmth and depth of flavor. Light or dark brown sugar will work just fine.
1/4 cup sugar: Regular granulated sugar helps balance the flavors.
1 egg: Essential for binding the ingredients together and providing moisture.
2 tbsp butter, melted: Adds richness. You can also use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
2 tsp vanilla: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it wonderfully aromatic.
1 cup sugar: For the cinnamon sugar coating – classic and irresistible!
2 tsp cinnamon: Paired with sugar, it transforms each donut into a delicious treat.
1/2 cup butter, melted: For dipping the donuts before rolling in the cinnamon sugar.

How to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Reduce the Apple Cider: In a small saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups apple cider to a boil over high heat. Let it boil for 1 minute, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Continue to simmer until it reduces to about 1/2 cup, which should take approximately 15 minutes. As it simmers, the cider will thicken a bit and darken in color—just what we’re looking for! Be sure to measure out 1/2 cup after it’s reduced, in case it doesn’t quite reach that point.
Cool the Cider: Once you’ve achieved the right measurement, let the apple cider cool completely before moving on to the next step. This cooling process is important, as hot liquids can affect the batter.
Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, generously spray a donut pan with non-stick spray to prevent any sticky situations later.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups cake flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg until evenly combined.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the cooled 1/2 cup reduced apple cider, 1/2 cup milk, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and 2 teaspoons vanilla. This mixture should be smooth and homogenous.
Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry mixture and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine!
Fill the Pan: Distribute the batter evenly among the donut molds, filling each about three-quarters full. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing.
Bake: Place the donut pan into the preheated oven and bake for 8 minutes or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed and the edges turn golden.
Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: While the donuts bake, melt 1/2 cup butter in a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, whisk together 1 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon.
Coat the Donuts: Once the donuts are done baking, let them cool for just a few minutes in the pan, then remove them gently. Dip each warm donut in the melted butter, coating both sides, then toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully covered.

Storing & Reheating

To enjoy leftover donuts, store them at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer preservation, refrigerate them for up to a week in a closed container. You can freeze these donuts for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to refresh their soft texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Watch the boiling point: Ensure you keep an eye on the cider so that it reduces properly and doesn’t boil over.
Don’t skip the cooling step: It’s crucial for the cider not to interfere with the egg and butter mixture, which could lead to scrambling.
Check doneness with a toothpick: Insert it into the donut; it should come out clean.
Experiment with toppings: Try adding chopped nuts or a drizzle of icing on top for a fun twist!
Feel free to double the recipe: These donuts tend to disappear quickly, especially at gatherings!

Baked Apple Cider Donuts are truly delightful to make and share! Each bite captures autumn’s magic while being easy enough for any skill level. They’re perfect for a family breakfast or as a sweet surprise during coffee with friends.

Recipe FAQs

How can I make these donuts gluten-free?

You can substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free baking blend that measures 1:1. Be sure to check for added xanthan gum in the blend; if it doesn’t have any, you may need to add about 1 teaspoon to achieve the right texture.

Can I use fresh apple juice instead of apple cider?

While you can use fresh apple juice, keep in mind that it’s typically sweeter and lacks some of the deeper flavor and acidity found in cider. For a richer taste, simmer the apple juice to reduce it, similar to how you would with apple cider.

What if my donuts are too dense?

If your donuts turn out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or not using enough leavening agent. Make sure to mix just until combined and check that your baking powder is fresh.

Can I add other spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other spices like ginger or cloves for an added flavor boost. You could also incorporate chocolate chips or apple chunks into the batter for a twist!

⭐ If you make my Baked Apple Cider Donuts recipe, Awesome! I would love to hear from you. Please give it a star rating and review below! 👇

Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Storing & Reheating