Name: Baked Apple Cider Donuts That Everyone Will Love!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup apple cider; 1 cup granulated 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

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Baked Apple Cider Donuts

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked apple cider donuts wafting through the kitchen. These delightful treats are not just a quick solution for a busy day; they’re a warm hug in donut form! Perfect for busy moms and professionals, this recipe is simple yet impressive enough to share with loved ones. Imagine serving these soft, spiced donuts at your next gathering or enjoying them with a cozy cup of coffee. Trust me, once you try these baked apple cider donuts, they’ll become a fall favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Apple Cider Donuts

These baked apple cider donuts are a game-changer for busy days. They come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick breakfast or an afternoon treat. The warm spices and sweet apple cider create a flavor that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can indulge without the guilt. Trust me, once you taste these, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful baked 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 infuses the donuts with a sweet, tangy flavor that screams fall.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create that lovely golden crust.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter gives richness and moisture, making each bite melt in your mouth.
Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add a bit of fluffiness.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donuts rise, giving them a light texture.
Baking soda: Works alongside the baking powder for extra lift and a tender crumb.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the apple flavor and adds a cozy aroma.
Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch adds depth and a hint of warmth to the flavor profile.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

For those looking to get creative, consider adding a glaze or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness. You can find the exact measurements for these ingredients at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking. While the oven heats up, grease your donut pan. A well-greased pan helps the donuts release easily, preventing any sad, broken treats!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This step is vital as it evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices. A well-mixed dry blend sets the stage for perfectly fluffy baked apple cider donuts!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the apple cider, melted butter, and eggs until well combined. The apple cider brings sweetness, while the butter adds richness. Eggs bind everything together, creating a smooth batter. This mixture is where the magic begins, infusing flavor into your donuts!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can lead to dense donuts. You want a slightly lumpy batter for that perfect light texture in your baked apple cider donuts.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. For even baking, try to distribute the batter evenly across the pan. Your donuts will thank you for it!

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

🚫 Don’t Buy This If…

❌ You hate hosting fun parties
❌ You don’t like saving time in the kitchen
❌ You only want boring, basic recipes

✅ What You’ll Get:

✅ 63 spooky & delicious Halloween recipes
✅ Creepy treats, eerie snacks, scary drinks & more
✅ Kid-friendly & adult-approved
✅ 📥 Instant digital download – start cooking today!

Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a donut. If it comes out clean, they’re ready! The aroma will be heavenly, tempting you to sneak a taste!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve them warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with glaze. These baked apple cider donuts are best enjoyed fresh, so dig in!

Tips for Success

Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor; it makes a world of difference!
Don’t skip greasing the pan; it’s key to keeping your donuts intact.
For a fun twist, try adding chopped apples or nuts to the batter.
Let the donuts cool completely before glazing to prevent melting.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh longer.

Equipment Needed

Donut pan: Essential for shaping your donuts. If you don’t have one, a muffin tin works in a pinch!
Mixing bowls: Use at least two for wet and dry ingredients. Any size will do!
Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients. A fork can work too!
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key. If you’re in a hurry, eyeballing can work for dry ingredients.

Variations of Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
Vegan version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter for a dairy-free treat.
Spiced apple cider: Add a dash of cloves or allspice for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
Chocolate chip addition: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Maple glaze: Drizzle a maple syrup glaze on top for a sweet finish that complements the apple cider perfectly.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Pair with a steaming cup of spiced chai or hot apple cider for a cozy treat.
Serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
For a festive touch, arrange on a decorative platter with fall leaves.

FAQs about Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Can I use store-bought apple cider? Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor.

How do I store leftover donuts? Keep your baked apple cider donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for a few days, but trust me, they won’t last long!

Can I freeze these donuts? Yes! You can freeze baked apple cider donuts. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll be good for up to three months.

What can I use instead of eggs? If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.

Can I make these donuts ahead of time? Definitely! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking for the best results.

Summarizing the Joy of Baked Apple Cider Donuts

There’s something truly magical about baked apple cider donuts. They capture the essence of fall, bringing warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring one with your morning coffee, each bite is a reminder of cozy gatherings and cherished moments. The delightful aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to join in the fun. Plus, knowing they’re quick and easy to make means you can whip up a batch anytime. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in these delicious treats; they’re sure to become a beloved tradition in your home!

Baked Apple Cider Donuts That Everyone Will Love!