Warm, soft, and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar hug — these baked apple cider donuts are the ultimate cozy treat for crisp autumn days. The reduced apple cider intensifies the flavor, while baking keeps them light and tender without frying.
Best enjoyed with a steaming mug of coffee, tea, or hot apple cider, they bring the aromas of cinnamon and apples straight from your oven. Whether you’re hosting a fall brunch or simply craving something seasonal, these donuts are sure to make your kitchen smell like an apple orchard in full bloom.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 and 3/4 cups (220g) all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
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1 teaspoon apple pie spice (or extra cinnamon)
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2/3 cup (130g) packed light or dark brown sugar
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1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider (reduced to intensify flavor)
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1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
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2 large eggs, at room temperature
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1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
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1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
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3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
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6 tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray.
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In a small saucepan, simmer apple cider over medium heat until reduced to about 1/4 cup (60ml). Let cool slightly.
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In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, apple pie spice, nutmeg, and salt.
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In another bowl, whisk together brown sugar, reduced apple cider, buttermilk, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until smooth.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined—do not overmix.
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Spoon or pipe batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
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Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned and the donuts spring back when touched.
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Let donuts cool for 2 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
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For the coating, mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Dip each slightly warm donut into melted butter, then roll generously in the cinnamon sugar.
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Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 32 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 12 donuts
Why Apple Cider is the Star Ingredient
Apple cider, especially when reduced, provides a concentrated apple flavor that’s hard to replicate. The process of simmering it down not only enhances the natural sugars and aroma but also adds a slightly caramelized depth. This concentrated cider becomes the heart of the donut’s flavor, giving it a distinctive orchard-fresh taste. Unlike apple juice, which is filtered and lighter, cider is richer and often carries hints of tartness that balance the sweetness of the donut batter.
The Appeal of Baking Over Frying
While fried donuts have their own charm, baking offers unique advantages for home bakers. It eliminates the need for large amounts of oil, which can sometimes overpower delicate flavors like apple and cinnamon. Baking also produces a tender crumb and a more cake-like texture, making the donuts perfect for soaking up the buttery cinnamon sugar coating. Additionally, baking means less mess, a quicker cleanup, and a lighter result that still feels indulgent.
The Role of Spices in Flavor Development
Cinnamon and nutmeg are the core spices in these donuts, with apple pie spice adding complexity through cloves, allspice, and ginger. Cinnamon brings warmth and a sweet aroma, nutmeg adds an earthy depth, and the blend of apple pie spice ties everything together into a nostalgic fall flavor profile. These spices don’t just enhance the taste; they also create a comforting aroma that fills the kitchen as the donuts bake, making the experience as enjoyable as the end product.
Texture and Mouthfeel
Baked apple cider donuts strike a balance between soft, airy cake and the satisfying density of a traditional donut. The batter yields a tender crumb that holds up well to the buttery cinnamon sugar coating without becoming soggy. The exterior develops a light golden crust, adding a subtle contrast in texture. When bitten into, the donut offers a gentle springiness, followed by a melt-in-your-mouth sweetness and spice.
The Magic of Cinnamon Sugar Coating
The cinnamon sugar coating is more than just a garnish—it’s an essential part of the experience. The slightly warm donuts are dipped in melted butter, which allows the cinnamon sugar mixture to cling perfectly to the surface. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch of sugar crystals followed by the pillowy softness of the donut. This coating not only enhances sweetness but also provides a delightful contrast to the fruity apple cider notes in the donut itself.
Best Occasions to Enjoy Baked Apple Cider Donuts
These donuts are incredibly versatile when it comes to serving occasions. They’re perfect for a crisp autumn morning alongside coffee or tea, a seasonal brunch spread, or as a sweet finish to a fall-themed dinner. They also make a wonderful addition to apple orchard outings, harvest festivals, and Thanksgiving dessert tables. Because they’re baked, they travel well and can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, making them ideal for sharing at gatherings.
Pairing Suggestions for the Ultimate Experience
Baked apple cider donuts pair beautifully with warm beverages like chai tea, spiced cider, or a pumpkin spice latte. For a more decadent pairing, serve them with hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon. They also complement savory autumn dishes like roasted squash or butternut soup, offering a sweet counterpoint to earthy, rich flavors. For an elevated dessert, try serving them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream and a drizzle of warm caramel sauce.
Storage and Freshness Tips
While best enjoyed the day they’re made, these donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To maintain their soft texture, place a slice of bread in the container to help retain moisture. They can also be frozen—simply wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to serve, thaw at room temperature and refresh in a warm oven for a few minutes before enjoying.
Customization and Variations
Baked apple cider donuts are incredibly adaptable to personal tastes. For a richer flavor, swap brown sugar for maple sugar. If you prefer a tangier profile, add a touch of lemon zest to the batter. The spice mix can be adjusted as well—extra cinnamon for more warmth, or ginger for added zest. For a festive twist, glaze the donuts with apple cider glaze instead of rolling them in cinnamon sugar. You can even add small apple chunks to the batter for bursts of fruit in every bite.
Nutritional Perspective
While still a sweet treat, baked apple cider donuts offer a lighter alternative to fried donuts thanks to the absence of deep-frying oil. The use of apple cider introduces natural fruit sugars, while baking helps preserve some of the cider’s antioxidants. They’re a treat that balances indulgence with a slightly healthier approach, making them a guilt-moderated choice for seasonal enjoyment.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
What makes these baked apple cider donuts exceptional is the combination of concentrated apple cider flavor, aromatic spice blend, and the light yet satisfying texture. The reduced cider step is a game-changer—it ensures that the apple flavor is bold enough to shine through the spices and sugar coating. The fact that they are baked also makes them more accessible to home bakers, requiring no special frying equipment or techniques. This simplicity, combined with the nostalgic fall flavors, makes the recipe one you’ll want to return to year after year.
Conclusion
Baked apple cider donuts are more than just a seasonal dessert—they’re a celebration of autumn itself. From the moment the cider starts reducing on the stove to the first bite of a sugar-coated donut, the process is filled with warmth, comfort, and a sense of tradition. Whether enjoyed on a chilly morning, shared at a family gathering, or served as a festive treat at a fall event, these donuts embody the cozy essence of the season. By choosing to bake instead of fry, you create a treat that is approachable, flavorful, and just a little lighter, without sacrificing the indulgent experience that makes donuts so beloved.