Apple Cider Donuts

Apple Cider Donuts are soft, fluffy, and packed with warm cinnamon spice and tangy apple cider flavor. Coated in cinnamon sugar or drizzled with a sweet apple cider glaze, these homemade baked donuts are the perfect treat for fall mornings, holiday gatherings, or any time you crave a comforting bite.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

• Perfectly Spiced & Fluffy – Warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider make every bite delicious.
• Baked, Not Fried – A healthier alternative with the same irresistible flavor.
• Easy to Make – Ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Donuts

For the Donuts:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup apple cider (reduced for concentrated flavor)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

The Apple Cider Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Reduce the Apple Cider

1. In a medium saucepan, simmer apple cider over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until reduced to ½ cup.
2. Let it cool slightly before adding to the batter.

2. Make the Donut Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and reduced apple cider until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined (do not overmix).

3. Bake the Donuts

1. Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
2. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

4. Coat the Donuts in Cinnamon Sugar

1. In a shallow bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon.
2. Once the donuts have cooled slightly, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

5. Optional: Make the Apple Cider Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, apple cider, and cinnamon until smooth.
2. Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze, letting any excess drip off before serving.

Tips for the Best Apple Cider Donuts

1. Reduce the Apple Cider for Maximum Flavor – This concentrates the apple taste for a richer donut.
2. Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can make the donuts dense instead of light and fluffy.
3. Use a Piping Bag for Easy Filling – Pipe the batter into the donut pan for evenly shaped donuts.
4. For Extra Crunch – Double-coat the donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture for a crispier bite.

What to Serve with Apple Cider Donuts

Enjoy these donuts with:

• A warm cup of coffee or tea
• Hot apple cider
• Vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist

More Delicious Recipes to Try

If you love this recipe, check out these comforting favorites:

• Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
• Lobster Roll
• Crispy and Juicy Southern Fried Chicken

Find even more recipes on our Pinterest page.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: The batter can be made up to 1 day in advance and stored in the fridge.
• Storage: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 donut)

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Sugar: 18 g
• Sodium: 220 mg
• Fiber: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 40 mg

Conclusion

These Apple Cider Donuts are the ultimate fall treat, with warm cinnamon spice, tangy apple cider, and a soft, fluffy texture. Whether coated in cinnamon sugar or dipped in a sweet glaze, they’re guaranteed to be a seasonal favorite.

Save this recipe and try it today! Don’t forget to pin it on Pinterest for easy access.

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