apple cider donut recipe

There is nothing quite like the smell of fresh apple cider donuts wafting through the kitchen on a crisp autumn morning. These donuts are a quintessential fall treat, capturing the cozy essence of orchard visits and golden leaves. While many people wait for their local farm stand to open to get a fix, making them at home is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding.

This recipe creates a donut that is perfectly spiced, tender on the inside, and finished with a signature crunch of cinnamon sugar. Whether you are hosting a brunch or just want a special weekend treat, these apple cider donuts bring the warmth of the season straight to your table. Get ready to fill your home with the most comforting aroma imaginable.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 12 donuts
• Difficulty Level: Medium

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 280 kcal
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 210mg

Why Make This apple cider donut recipe

Making your own apple cider donuts at home allows you to control the quality of the ingredients and ensures you get that “fresh from the fryer” (or oven) taste every time. Unlike store-bought versions that can sometimes be dry or overly oily, this recipe results in a moist, cake-like texture that highlights the natural tang of the cider.

This recipe is also a wonderful way to use up a gallon of local apple cider. By reducing the cider down to a concentrated syrup, you pack an intense punch of apple flavor into every bite. It is a fun baking project that the whole family can join in on, especially when it comes time to dip the warm donuts into the cinnamon sugar topping.

How to Make apple cider donut recipe

Creating these autumn delights involves a few key steps to ensure the flavor is deep and the texture is light. Follow this simple process to achieve bakery-quality results in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups fresh apple cider (reduced to 1/2 cup)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the coating: 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, and 4 tablespoons melted butter

Directions

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a small saucepan, simmer the 1 1/2 cups of apple cider over medium-low heat until it has reduced to about 1/2 cup. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes. Set it aside to cool completely before using.

Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray or a little bit of butter so the donuts release easily after baking.

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure there are no large lumps in the flour.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cooled, reduced apple cider, the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Create the Donut Batter

Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to fold the mixture together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the donuts tough.

Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. You can also use a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner snipped off for a cleaner application.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly touched. Let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 8: Apply the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the donuts are still warm, brush them lightly with melted butter. Immediately toss them in a bowl filled with the cinnamon-sugar mixture until they are fully coated.

How to Serve apple cider donut recipe

These donuts are best served warm, shortly after they have been coated in sugar. They pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, a glass of cold milk, or even more apple cider. For a more indulgent dessert, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of salted caramel sauce.

How to Store apple cider donut recipe

To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For the best texture when eating leftovers, microwave the donut for about 10 seconds to soften it and revive the flavors.

Expert Tips for Perfect apple cider donut recipe

The secret to the best flavor is the cider reduction; don’t skip this step! It concentrates the apple taste. Additionally, make sure your egg and buttermilk are at room temperature to ensure the batter emulsifies properly. If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin to make “donut holes” instead, just adjust the baking time down by a few minutes.

Delicious Variations

If you want to try something different, replace the cinnamon sugar coating with a simple maple glaze made from powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk. You can also add finely diced bits of fresh apple into the batter for extra texture. For a spice twist, try adding a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom to the dry ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying them?

Yes, this recipe is specifically designed for baking in a donut pan, which makes them a bit lighter and much easier to clean up than traditional frying.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by adding 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to a 1/2 cup measuring cup and filling the rest with regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Q: Can I freeze apple cider donuts?

Yes! You can freeze the un-sugared donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw them, warm them in the oven, and then apply the butter and cinnamon sugar coating fresh.

Q: Why are my donuts tough?

Tough donuts usually come from overmixing the batter. Once you add the wet ingredients to the dry, mix only until the flour streaks disappear.

Q: Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

While you can use apple juice, apple cider is unfiltered and much more flavorful. If using juice, the flavor will be significantly milder and sweeter.

Conclusion

Bringing the flavors of the autumn harvest into your home has never been easier than with this apple cider donut recipe. With their soft interior and sweet, spiced exterior, they are sure to become a seasonal favorite for your family. Give this recipe a try next time you want to celebrate the arrival of cooler weather!

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