Apple cider donuts have a special place in my heart, especially during the crisp autumn months when the air is filled with the scent of fallen leaves and pumpkin spice. These fluffy treats, soaked in warm apple cider and coated in cinnamon sugar, are the epitome of comfort. They’ve got that delightful cakey texture and just the right amount of spice, making each bite a warm hug. There’s something nostalgic about making homemade apple cider donuts; it’s a tradition that brings together family and friends, whether at a cozy brunch or a fall festival.

Table of Contents

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

I first discovered this recipe at a quaint apple orchard years ago, where I was instantly enchanted by the warm, sugary aroma wafting from the kitchen. To replicate that experience at home, I’ve spent countless afternoons perfecting my take on apple cider donuts. They’re remarkably simple to whip up, and believe me, they taste infinitely better than anything store-bought. Plus, your kitchen will smell divine while they’re baking! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be looking for every excuse to make these delightful apple cider donuts again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe brings deliciousness without the fuss.
Irresistible Flavor: The rich flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple come together in a moist, tender donut.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Perfectly round and dusted in cinnamon sugar—these donuts are irresistible!
Flexible Serving: Great for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or as a dessert.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets with simple substitutions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 1/2 cups apple cider: This will infuse your donuts with a rich, fruity flavor. Be sure to use fresh cider—it’s the star of the show!
2 cups all-purpose flour: This gives the donuts structure. If you need a gluten-free option, you can swap in a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour.
1 tsp baking powder: This is your leavening agent, helping the donuts rise for a fluffy interior.
1/2 tsp baking soda: Provides additional lift; combined with the acidity of the apple cider, it ensures a tender crumb.
1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: A cozy spice that adds warmth and depth.
1/2 tsp ground ginger: Gives a little zing and pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds a fragrant touch and a hint of warmth.
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed: Brown sugar provides moisture and enhances the caramel notes.
1/4 cup white granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and helps with caramelization.
1 large egg, room temperature: Helps bind the ingredients; room temperature eggs mix more easily.
1 tsp pure vanilla extract: This little kick of vanilla brightens and rounds out the flavor.
1/4 cup oil, canola or vegetable: Contributes moisture, keeping the donuts tender.
1/3 cup milk: This helps keep the batter moist and aids in achieving the perfect texture.
2 tbsp apple sauce, unsweetened: Adds more apple flavor and moisture. For a similar effect, simply puree some cooked apples.
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: The dunking step is where richness happens, helping the cinnamon-sugar stick.
2 tbsp apple cider: For dunking, adding another layer of flavor.
1 1/3 cup white granulated sugar: The main component for the coating, giving that delightful crunch.
1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon: Enhances the coating and gives that classic apple cider donut flavor.
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: A dash provides warmth to the sugar coating.

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts

Reduce the Apple Cider: In a large saucepan, add 1 1/2 cups apple cider over medium heat. Bring it to a simmer, stirring occasionally until it reduces to 1/2 cup—this takes about 10-15 minutes. Let it cool completely before using it in the batter.
Preheat and Prepare the Pan: As the cider cools, preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray two donut pans (each holds six donuts) with baking spray and set them aside.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg. Set this bowl aside.
Combine the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 large egg, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1/4 cup canola oil, 1/3 cup milk, 2 tbsp unsweetened apple sauce, and the cooled 1/2 cup of apple cider.
Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add your dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, whisking until just combined. Don’t overmix! This keeps the donuts tender.
Fill the Pans: Pour the batter into a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off. Fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full to allow room to rise.
Bake: Place the donut pans in the oven and bake for 14-16 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean. A handy tip: if the holes close up while baking, use a piping tip to recreate them right after you take them out.
Cool the Donuts: After baking, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Dunking Mix: While the donuts cool, mix together 6 tbsp melted butter and 2 tbsp apple cider in a bowl large enough to dunk the donuts into. In another bowl, combine 1 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg for the coating.
Coat the Donuts: Dunk each cooled donut into the butter mixture, letting any excess drip off. After that, roll the donut in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until heavily coated. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes so the sugar soaks in, and then coat them again—double the cinnamon-sugar is a must!

Storing & Reheating

Store your apple cider donuts at room temperature in an airtight container for up to two days. If you want to keep them longer, place them in the refrigerator for about a week. They freeze beautifully too! Just wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy one, just pop it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to refresh its fluffy texture—though note they may lose some of their initial crispiness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Make sure your apple cider is fresh for the best flavor. Avoid using apple juice as it tends to be less robust.
For best results, ensure your egg and milk are at room temperature before mixing; this helps the ingredients combine more smoothly.
Don’t skip the cooling step! Letting the donuts cool completely will prevent the coating from becoming soggy.
If you prefer a thicker coat of cinnamon sugar, don’t hesitate to dunk them twice!
Want to experiment? Try adding apple chunks or nuts to the batter for added texture.
If you notice your donuts sticking to the pan, give it an extra spray of baking spray next time or let them cool slightly longer before transferring.

Apple cider donuts are more than just desserts—they’re a go-to treat for welcoming the fall season with open arms. Perfect for gatherings or a simple weekend brunch, they offer uncomplicated joy and satisfaction with every bite. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the deliciousness of autumn, and enjoy creating these amazing treats at home!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the batter ahead of time and store it in the fridge overnight. Bake the donuts fresh in the morning for a warm treat. If you bake them ahead, just remember to store them properly to maintain freshness.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

No problem! You can use a muffin tin instead. Just fill the cups two-thirds full and adjust the baking time to about 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

How can I make these donuts gluten-free?

To make gluten-free apple cider donuts, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure your baking powder also states it’s gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.

Can I use oil instead of butter in the coating?

While butter provides that delightful richness, you can use oil if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different, but they’ll still be delicious!

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Apple Cider Donuts

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Author: Anna
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 54 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Desserts & Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

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Description

These Apple Cider Donuts are a delightful treat featuring the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Easy to prepare, they’re perfect for gatherings or a cozy breakfast at home.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 cups apple cider
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup white granulated sugar
1 large egg, room temperature
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/4 cup oil, canola or vegetable
1/3 cup milk
2 tbsp apple sauce, unsweetened
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
2 tbsp apple cider
1 1/3 cup white granulated sugar
1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

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Instructions

In a large saucepan, pour the apple cider and heat over medium until it simmers.
Stir occasionally until the cider reduces to 1/2 cup, which takes about 10-15 minutes.
Allow the reduced cider to cool completely before using.

Notes

Make sure to let the apple cider cool down for the best results.
You can use different types of apples for varying flavors in the cider.
For a sweeter donut, increase the sugar in the mixture.