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Baked Apple Cider Donuts

a cozy, autumn-inspired treat with a perfect blend of apple and warm spices. These cake-style donuts are baked rather than fried, making them lighter but still rich in flavor. A quick dip in melted butter and a cinnamon-sugar coating completes their irresistible charm. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, these donuts capture the essence of fall in every bite.
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Equipment

  • Kitchen Equipment Needed:
  • Donut pan
  • Mixing bowls 
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • - Small saucepan
  • Cooling rack

Ingredients
  

  • For the donuts:
  • 1 ½ cups apple cider reduced to ½ cup
  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 large egg
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed brown sugar
  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 tbsp melted butter

Instructions
 

  • Instructions
  • Reduce the Apple Cider: In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to ½ cup. Let it cool.
  • Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
  • Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  • Mix the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the egg, granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, vanilla extract, melted butter, and reduced apple cider.
  • Combine the Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  • Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
  • Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed. Let them cool slightly before removing from the pan.
  • Prepare the Coating: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon. Brush each donut with melted butter, then dip into the cinnamon-sugar mixture until coated.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Recipe Tips
  • Reducing the cider: Don’t skip this step! It concentrates the apple flavor for a more robust taste.
  • No donut pan? Use a muffin tin instead, filling it only halfway to mimic the donut shape.
  • Make it ahead: Prepare the batter in advance and bake fresh when needed.
  • What to Serve With This Recipe
  • Serve these donuts with a hot cup of coffee, spiced tea, or warm apple cider for the ultimate fall pairing. They’re also delightful with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Can I freeze these donuts? Yes! Store them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
  • Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but the texture will be denser. Consider a 50/50 mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.
  • How do I make them gluten-free? Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for similar results.
  • Serving Suggestions
  • Baked Apple Cider Donuts are perfect for breakfast, a cozy dessert, or an addition to a brunch spread. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness, or pair with vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.