Welcome to the ultimate autumn indulgence: **Irresistible Baked Apple Cider Donuts**! These delightful treats are the epitome of fall baking, combining the rich, tangy essence of apple cider with warm, comforting spices in a tender, cakey donut. Forget the greasy mess of deep-frying; our recipe offers a healthier, quicker, and undeniably easier way to enjoy your favorite fall donut, making them perfect for a sweet breakfast, a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, or a simple yet elegant dessert. Each bite is infused with genuine fall flavor, crowned with a shimmering sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, transporting you straight to an apple orchard on a crisp autumn day.
If you’re captivated by the magic of apple-infused recipes, you absolutely must explore our other seasonal favorites. Indulge in the sticky sweetness of our Caramel Apples, savor the comforting layers of our Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls, or brighten your morning with the decadent Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake. These recipes are designed to celebrate the bounty of the season and bring warmth to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Fall Flavor: Unlike artificial alternatives, this recipe uses real apple cider concentrate and a thoughtfully selected blend of warm spices to deliver an unparalleled, genuine taste of autumn that truly shines through in every bite.
- Healthier & Easier Than Frying: Say goodbye to messy oil and complicated deep-frying techniques. Our baked method significantly reduces fat content while simplifying the process, making it accessible even for novice bakers and a guilt-free indulgence.
- Quick Preparation: From mixing bowl to your plate, these delicious donuts can be ready in under an hour. This makes them an ideal choice for a spontaneous baking session or when you need a swift, impressive treat.
- Perfect for Making Ahead: These donuts retain their moist texture and incredible flavor for several days. Prepare them in advance and simply dust with the cinnamon sugar topping just before serving to refresh their appeal.
The Magic of Baked Apple Cider Donuts
There’s a special charm about autumn, and these baked apple cider donuts perfectly capture that essence. They are a beloved tradition in many parts of the country, especially throughout New England, where apple orchards come alive with visitors eager to experience the crisp air, pick fresh apples, and, of course, enjoy warm apple cider donuts. Our homemade version brings that comforting, nostalgic experience right into your kitchen.
Not only are they significantly healthier than their deep-fried counterparts, but they also offer a remarkably simpler preparation process, saving you time and effort without compromising on flavor. Infused with the sweetness of apple cider and a fragrant blend of fall spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, these cakey donuts boast an irresistibly moist and tender crumb, perfectly complemented by a sparkling cinnamon sugar coating. The aroma alone as they bake will fill your home with the most inviting, autumnal fragrance, making your space feel cozy and welcoming. Even if you don’t own a donut pan, there’s no need to fret; simply bake the batter in muffin tins, then brush the baked donut muffins with melted butter and generously coat them with cinnamon sugar for a delightful alternative.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Donuts
Crafting the perfect baked apple cider donut relies on a few key ingredients working in harmony to create that signature tender texture and rich fall flavor. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is essential:
- All-Purpose Flour: This forms the foundational structure of our cakey donuts, providing the necessary body and texture. Ensure you measure it correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off, rather than scooping, to prevent a dense donut.
- Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These dual leavening agents are crucial for giving the donuts their soft, airy, and tender crumb. Baking powder acts quickly upon mixing, while baking soda reacts with the acidic buttermilk to provide an extra lift in the oven.
- Warm Spices: Our recipe features a classic blend of cinnamon and nutmeg, which are quintessential fall flavors. For an extra layer of warmth, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger, cloves, or allspice. Alternatively, a pre-mixed pumpkin pie spice blend can be a convenient substitute.
- Apple Cider: The star ingredient! Real apple cider imbues these donuts with an authentic, sweet-tart apple flavor. For an intensified apple presence, gently reduce the cider by about one-third over medium heat before allowing it to cool completely, concentrating its flavor. While apple juice can be used in a pinch, reducing it first is highly recommended to achieve a comparable flavor depth.
- Buttermilk: This provides a delightful tang and contributes significantly to the donut’s moist and tender texture. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make your own by adding one tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup, then filling the rest with regular milk to equal 1/2 cup. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it slightly curdles.
- Large Eggs: Eggs serve as a vital binder, holding the batter together and adding richness and moisture. They also contribute to the overall structure and lift of the donuts. Always use large eggs for consistent results.
- Unsalted Butter: Melted butter adds a rich, delicate flavor and contributes to the moistness of the donuts. Be sure to melt it and let it cool slightly before incorporating it into the batter to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: The iconic finish! This simple blend of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, applied over a light brush of melted butter, creates that irresistible sugary crunch and aromatic spice that defines a true apple cider donut.
How to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts
Creating these heavenly baked apple cider donuts is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps for a truly rewarding baking experience:
- Prepare the Batter: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing your donut molds. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, ensuring they are well combined. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: apple cider, granulated sugar, buttermilk, cooled melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough donuts.
- Fill Donut Molds: For neat and even donuts, transfer the batter into a piping bag (or a sturdy Ziploc bag with a corner snipped off). Pipe the batter evenly into the prepared donut molds, filling each about two-thirds full. This ensures they have enough room to rise without overflowing.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the filled donut molds into your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 7-9 minutes, or until the edges are beautifully golden brown and the tops spring back gently when lightly pressed. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven.
- Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Once baked, carefully remove the donuts from the oven and allow them to cool in the pan for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While still warm, gently brush the tops of each donut with additional melted butter. In a shallow bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the topping. Dip the buttered side of each donut into the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring a generous and even coating.
- Serve and Enjoy: These baked apple cider donuts are best enjoyed warm, straight from the cooling rack, or at room temperature. The aroma, texture, and flavor are simply irresistible!
Tips for the Best Baked Apple Cider Donuts
Achieving bakery-quality baked apple cider donuts at home is easier than you think with these expert tips:
- Do Not Overmix the Batter: The key to a light, fluffy donut is a tender crumb. Overmixing develops gluten, which can result in tough, dense donuts. Stir the wet and dry ingredients together only until just combined, even if a few small lumps remain.
- Use a Piping Bag for Easy Filling: For perfectly shaped donuts and a mess-free process, transfer your batter into a piping bag (or a large Ziploc bag with a corner snipped off). This allows for precise filling of the donut pan wells. A pancake batter dispenser also works wonderfully.
- Grease Your Donut Pan Thoroughly: To ensure easy release and beautifully formed donuts, liberally grease each well of your donut pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter. This step is crucial to prevent sticking.
- Coat While Still Warm: The cinnamon-sugar topping adheres best to the donuts when they are still warm from the oven. As soon as they are cool enough to handle, brush them with melted butter and toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture for maximum flavor and texture.
Recipe Variations to Explore
While the classic cinnamon sugar baked apple cider donut is perfect as is, there’s always room for creative experimentation! Feel free to adapt this recipe and discover new flavor combinations:
- Sweet Glaze Finish: For those who enjoy an extra layer of sweetness, prepare a simple glaze by whisking powdered sugar with a splash of vanilla extract and a touch of apple cider until smooth. Dip the cooled donuts into this glaze for a glossy finish.
- Enhanced Spice Blend: Elevate the fall flavor profile by incorporating additional strong and spicy baking spices into your batter. Consider adding a quarter teaspoon each of ground ginger, cloves, or allspice to complement the cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Maple Glaze Delight: Create a delectable homemade maple glaze for a rich and comforting twist. Combine powdered sugar with pure maple syrup and a hint of vanilla extract, then dip your baked donuts once they’ve cooled slightly.
- Bite-Sized Donut Holes: For a fun, shareable treat, try making donut holes! Simply bake the batter in a mini muffin tin. Once baked, you can either toss them in cinnamon sugar or glaze them with your favorite icing for a delightful, easy-to-eat snack.
Frequently Asked Questions
While fresh apple cider offers the most authentic and robust flavor for these donuts, apple juice can be used as a substitute in a pinch. However, be aware that apple juice is typically sweeter and less complex in flavor. To best mimic the intensity of cider, we recommend reducing the apple juice by about one-third in a saucepan over medium heat, allowing it to cool completely before incorporating it into the batter as directed.
No donut pan? No problem! You can easily adapt this recipe to make delicious apple cider donut muffins. Simply line a regular muffin tin with paper liners and fill each cup about three-quarters full with the batter. Bake for approximately 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once cooled, you can brush them with melted butter and coat them in cinnamon sugar, just like the donuts.
Absolutely! Baked apple cider donuts freeze beautifully, making them an excellent make-ahead option. Allow the donuts to cool completely after baking and topping. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, ensuring they are in a single layer or separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store them in the freezer for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature, then gently warm them in a preheated oven or microwave for that fresh-baked taste.
If your baked donuts turn out dry, it’s often a sign of overbaking. Keep a close eye on the baking time and remove them as soon as the edges are golden and the tops spring back. If they are dense, it’s typically due to overmixing the batter. Remember to mix the wet and dry ingredients only until just combined to keep the crumb light and tender.
Storing and Reheating
- Room Temperature: For optimal freshness, store any leftover baked apple cider donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their tender texture and prevents them from drying out.
- Refrigerator: If you wish to extend their shelf life, you can store the donuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be aware that refrigeration can sometimes alter the texture slightly, making them a bit firmer.
- Freezer: To enjoy these delightful treats for an even longer period, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in an airtight, freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature, then gently warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven for 5-10 minutes for a freshly baked experience.
More Apple & Fall Recipes You’ll Love
If you’ve fallen in love with these apple cider donuts, you’re sure to enjoy these other delightful apple and fall-inspired recipes from our kitchen. Each offers a unique way to celebrate the season’s flavors and bring warmth to your home:
Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls
Apple Danish
Apple Coffee Cake
Snickers Apple Salad
Baked Apple Cider Donut Recipe
These baked apple cider donuts are tender, cakey, and full of fall flavor. They’re quick and easy to make, healthier than fried donuts, and perfect for a sweet breakfast, afternoon treat, or a simple dessert.
Yields: 18 donuts
Prep time: 10 mins
Cook time: 10 mins
Total time: 20 mins
Author: The Carefree Kitchen
Ingredients
Donuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1½ cups apple cider
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted (for brushing)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk to combine.
- In a separate large bowl, combine the apple cider, sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk well.
- Add the wet apple cider mixture to the dry flour mixture and whisk just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the donut batter into the greased donut molds, filling each about 2/3 full.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 7-9 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the top of the donuts spring back when gently pressed.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let cool for about 2 minutes in the pan. Gently remove the donuts onto a wire rack to cool slightly further.
- While the donuts are still warm, combine the 1/4 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Lightly brush the tops of the donuts with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then dip into the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly.
- Serve donuts warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Notes
Storing instructions: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw and warm gently in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition
Calories: 149kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 28mg | Sodium: 162mg | Potassium: 76mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 120IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 27mg | Iron: 1mg
Disclaimer: Nutritional values were calculated using a third-party tool and are provided as an estimation only.
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
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More Of The Best Dessert Recipes
Beyond our delicious apple treats, explore these other fantastic dessert recipes that are sure to satisfy any sweet craving. From classic comforts to fruity delights, there’s something for everyone:
- Butterscotch Bars
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
- Chocolate Pound Cake
- Apple Bread
- Carrot Cake
- Pumpkin Bread
- Fresh Strawberry Pie
- More Breakfast Favorites
- More Dessert Recipes
These delightful homemade Baked Apple Cider Donuts are a true fall favorite. Their tender, cakey texture, combined with the ease of baking and simple cinnamon sugar topping, makes them an unbeatable choice for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a comforting dessert. We hope you enjoy making and sharing these wonderful autumnal delights!