Apple Cider Donuts

Name: Apple Cider Donuts: Discover the Best Recipe Today!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup apple cider; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt

Posted on September 1, 2025

DESSERT

Introduction to Apple Cider Donuts

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked Apple Cider Donuts wafting through the kitchen. These delightful treats are not just a dessert; they’re a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for busy moms and professionals alike. Whether you’re looking for a quick solution for a hectic day or a sweet way to impress your loved ones, this recipe is your go-to. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be transported to a charming autumn afternoon, no matter the season!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donuts

These Apple Cider Donuts are a dream come true for anyone short on time but big on flavor. They come together in just 27 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings. The combination of warm spices and sweet apple cider creates a taste that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can indulge without the guilt. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Apple Cider Donuts

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Apple Cider Donuts. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the base of your donuts, providing structure and a soft texture.
Apple cider: The star of the show! It adds moisture and a rich apple flavor that screams fall.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter, giving your donuts that delightful sweetness.
Brown sugar: Adds a hint of caramel flavor and moisture, making the donuts extra tender.
Unsalted butter: Melted for richness, it enhances the flavor and texture of the donuts.
Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and help the donuts rise, creating a fluffy texture.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donuts rise and become light and airy.
Baking soda: Works with the acid in the apple cider to give the donuts a nice lift.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that adds a cozy flavor, perfect for fall treats.
Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch adds depth and a hint of warmth to the flavor profile.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness and making each bite pop.

For those looking to get creative, consider adding chopped apples for extra texture and flavor. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab your donut pan and give it a good greasing. This will ensure your Apple Cider Donuts slide right out after baking, making cleanup a breeze. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This step is crucial as it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices. The aroma of cinnamon will already start to fill your kitchen, and it’s just the beginning!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the apple cider, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, and eggs until everything is well combined. This mixture is where the magic happens! The apple cider adds moisture and flavor, making your donuts irresistibly delicious.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your donuts light and fluffy!

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. Just imagine the delightful shape they’ll take as they bake—so tempting!

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Pop the donut pan into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell of warm spices will fill your home, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential for achieving that perfect texture. Enjoy them warm, or store them for later—if they last that long!

Tips for Success

Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor; it makes a world of difference!
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay for fluffy donuts.
Let the donuts cool completely before glazing or storing to maintain texture.
Experiment with spices; a dash of allspice or ginger can add a unique twist.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them moist and delicious.

Equipment Needed

Donut pan: Essential for shaping your Apple Cider Donuts. If you don’t have one, a muffin tin works in a pinch!
Mixing bowls: Use at least two—one for dry and one for wet ingredients.
Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly.
Spoon or piping bag: For filling the donut pan with batter.
Wire rack: Ideal for cooling your donuts evenly.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these Apple Cider Donuts suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use a plant-based butter alternative.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the donuts.
Apple Cinnamon Swirl: Swirl in some cinnamon sugar or a mixture of chopped apples and cinnamon into the batter for added flavor and texture.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze over the cooled donuts for an extra layer of sweetness and a delightful fall flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Apple Cider Donuts with a warm cup of spiced apple cider for a cozy treat.
Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce for an elegant touch.
Present on a rustic wooden platter for a charming autumn display.

FAQs about Apple Cider Donuts

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly for these Apple Cider Donuts. Just make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor.

How do I store leftover donuts?

To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for a few days, but trust me, they might not last that long!

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes, you can freeze your Apple Cider Donuts. Just make sure they’re completely cooled, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll be ready for a quick treat later!

What can I use instead of eggs?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using flax eggs or applesauce. One flax egg is made by mixing 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. It works wonders in keeping the donuts moist!

Can I add toppings to my donuts?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. A simple glaze, cinnamon sugar, or even chopped nuts can elevate your Apple Cider Donuts to the next level!

Final Thoughts

Making Apple Cider Donuts is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with those you love. The warm, spiced aroma that fills your kitchen is like a gentle reminder of cozy autumn days. Each bite is a delightful blend of sweetness and nostalgia, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with family or surprising a friend, these donuts are sure to bring smiles. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the magic of fall, and let these delicious treats become a cherished part of your culinary adventures!