Baked apple cider donuts are the perfect sweet treat for the fall season, combining cozy spices, the tangy sweetness of apple cider, and a soft, fluffy texture that will make your taste buds sing. There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the aroma of cinnamon floating through the kitchen, reminiscent of apple orchards, hayrides, and hand-picked apples. These donuts are not fried, so they’re lighter and just as delicious, making them a healthier choice that’s bound to be a hit.

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
Recipe FAQs
Baked Apple Cider Donuts

I still remember the first time I made these donuts in my tiny apartment kitchen. It was a crisp afternoon, perfect for baking, and as the donuts baked, I could hardly wait to try them. The sweet, spiced scent wafting through the air was simply irresistible, and once I took my first bite, I knew I had created a new favorite. Trust me, after one taste, you will be craving these baked apple cider donuts again and again! They are a delightful addition to breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a lovely homemade gift for friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: With a prep and baking time of about 20 minutes, these donuts come together faster than a trip to the bakery!
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is packed with the taste of fresh apple cider and warm spices, creating a cozy treat that speaks to the heart.
Eye-Catching Appeal: They have a beautiful golden brown color and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, making them perfect for parties or brunch.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy them warm with a cup of coffee, serve at fall gatherings, or savor them as an after-school treat.
Diet-Friendly Options: You can make them dairy-free by substituting the buttermilk with a plant-based alternative.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for your donuts. For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend.
1 teaspoon baking powder: This helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
1 teaspoon baking soda: A companion to the baking powder that ensures lightness.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a warm, inviting spiciness that’s a must for any cinnamon-loving baker.
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Enhances the flavor profile with a slightly sweet and nutty warmth.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
1½ cups apple cider: A key ingredient that infuses the donuts with a fresh, fruity flavor.
1 cup sugar: Sweetness is essential; granulated sugar works best here.
1/2 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang. You can substitute with plain yogurt or a dairy-free milk with a splash of vinegar.
2 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together, providing structure and a moist texture.
2 tablespoons butter, melted: The richness from butter gives these donuts their delicious taste.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: To enhance all the other flavors and add a lovely aroma.
2 tablespoons butter, melted: For brushing on the tops after baking, making the cinnamon sugar adhere.
1/4 cup sugar: For the cinnamon sugar topping.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: To mix with sugar for that sweet finish.

How to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F. This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and turn out fluffy.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until fully combined. This helps distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly throughout the batter.
Combine the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 1½ cups of apple cider, 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of buttermilk, 2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mixing the wet ingredients separately helps to fully incorporate the sugar and ensures a smooth batter.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the apple cider mixture into the flour mixture. Use a whisk to combine everything without overmixing, which could result in dense donuts.
Fill the Donut Molds: Lightly grease your donut pans and fill each mold about 2/3 full with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise without spilling over.
Bake: Place the pans in your preheated oven and bake for about 7-9 minutes. They are ready when the edges are golden brown and the tops spring back when gently pressed.
Cool and Coat: Once baked, remove the donuts from the oven and let them cool in the pan for about 2 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them onto a sheet tray. In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Brush the tops of the donuts lightly with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then dip them into the cinnamon sugar mixture for that classic finish.
Enjoy: Serve the donuts warm or at room temperature. Their delightful flavors and tender texture will undoubtedly bring smiles to everyone who tries them!

Storing & Reheating

To store your baked apple cider donuts, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to enjoy them over a longer period, you can refrigerate them for up to a week or freeze them in a tightly sealed container for up to 3 months. To refresh the donuts, simply reheat in the microwave for about 10 seconds or pop them in a warm oven for a few minutes.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be cautious not to overmix the batter; a few lumps are perfectly fine and lead to fluffier donuts.
For an added layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of ginger or allspice to the dry ingredients.
If you love crispy edges, bake them a minute longer but keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.
Try adding chopped apples or pecans to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
These donuts can be made ahead of time; simply store them in the freezer and reheat when needed.

Baked apple cider donuts are a wonderful option for a cozy breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even a sweet treat to share with friends. They offer delicious flavors and a warmth that brings everyone together. Don’t hesitate to experiment and create your own variations or toppings. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy these donuts bring. They’re perfect for any occasion, but especially delightful as the leaves turn and the weather cools down. Enjoy every bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make these donuts vegan?

Absolutely! To make vegan baked apple cider donuts, simply replace the eggs with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and substitute the buttermilk with almond milk or a plant-based yogurt. You can also use a plant-based butter.

What should I do if I don’t have apple cider?

If you can’t find apple cider, you can substitute it with apple juice, though it’s best if you reduce it on the stovetop to concentrate the flavor. Add a bit of lemon juice to mimic the tanginess of cider.

How do I know when my donuts are done baking?

Your donuts are ready when the edges are lightly golden and if you gently press the tops, they spring back without leaving an indent. If a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, they are finished baking!

Can I freeze the donuts?

Yes, you can freeze baked apple cider donuts! Just allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container. They will be good for up to 3 months. Just reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven to enjoy again.

More Desserts & Appetizers Recipes

Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Baked Apple Cider Donuts

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Anna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 9 minutes
Total Time: 19 minutes
Yield: 18 donuts 1x
Category: Desserts & Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

These Baked Apple Cider Donuts deliver an irresistible flavor with a simple prep. Made with fresh apple cider, buttermilk, and warm spices, they’re a delightful treat for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

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 sugar
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In another large bowl, combine the apple cider, sugar, buttermilk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla. Whisk well.
Pour the apple cider mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
Grease the donut molds and fill each about 2/3 full with the batter.
Bake in the oven for 7-9 minutes or until golden brown and springy when pressed.
Cool for 2 minutes, then gently remove donuts from the molds.
In a bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Brush donuts with melted butter, then dip in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

Ensure the donut molds are well-greased to prevent sticking.
Adjust the baking time based on your oven for perfect donuts.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.