Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

Name: Apple Cider Glazed Donuts: Discover Irresistible Flavor!
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 unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze); 2 tablespoons apple cider (for glaze)

Posted on October 7, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked Apple Cider Glazed Donuts wafting through your kitchen. These delightful treats are not just a dessert; they’re a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for busy mornings or a sweet afternoon pick-me-up. I know how hectic life can get, especially for us busy moms and professionals. This recipe is a quick solution that will impress your loved ones and fill your home with the essence of fall. Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

These Apple Cider Glazed Donuts are a game-changer for busy days. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 27 minutes from start to finish. The taste? Oh, it’s like autumn in every bite! With a moist texture and a sweet glaze, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, making them a slightly healthier indulgence. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

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

All-purpose flour: This forms the base of your donuts, giving them structure and a soft texture.
Apple cider: The star of the show! It infuses the donuts with a rich, fruity flavor that screams fall.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the batter, ensuring each bite is a sugary delight.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds moisture and richness, making the donuts tender.
Large eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the donuts’ fluffiness.
Baking powder: This leavening agent ensures your donuts rise beautifully in the oven.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the apple flavor and adds a cozy aroma.
Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch of nutmeg adds depth and a hint of warmth to the flavor profile.
Salt: A small amount of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Powdered sugar: This is for the glaze, creating that sweet, shiny finish that makes these donuts irresistible.
Additional apple cider: Used in the glaze, it ties everything together with a burst of apple goodness.

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative! You can swap in whole wheat flour for a healthier twist or add a dash of vanilla extract for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!

How to Make Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delicious Apple Cider Glazed Donuts! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, sweet donuts in no time.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for getting those donuts perfectly baked. While the oven warms up, grease your donut pan. A little non-stick spray or butter will do the trick. This ensures your donuts pop out easily after baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This mixture creates the base for your donuts. The spices will fill your kitchen with a cozy aroma, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted unsalted butter, large eggs, and apple cider until well combined. This step adds moisture and flavor to your donuts. The melted butter will make them rich and tender, while the apple cider brings that delightful fall flavor.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, and we want them fluffy and light.

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 enough room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. It’s like giving them a cozy little bed to bake in!

Step 6: Bake

Pop the donut pan into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This is where the magic happens! Your kitchen will smell heavenly.

Step 7: Cool the Donuts

Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess and allows them to cool completely. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze

For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and a couple of tablespoons of apple cider until smooth. This sweet mixture adds the finishing touch to your donuts. It’s like a sweet blanket of goodness!

Step 9: Glaze the Donuts

Finally, dunk the cooled donuts into the glaze. Let any excess drip off, then place them back on the wire rack to set. This is the best part! Watching that glaze coat the donuts is pure joy.

Tips for Success

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Don’t overmix the batter; it should be slightly lumpy for fluffy donuts.
Use a piping bag for easy filling of the donut pan.
Let the donuts cool completely before glazing for a perfect finish.
Experiment with spices like ginger or cloves for a unique twist!

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—one for dry and one for wet ingredients.
Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly. A fork can work too!
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking success.
Wire rack: Ideal for cooling and glazing. A plate can substitute if needed.

Variations

Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter to make these donuts vegan-friendly.
Spiced version: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
Apple chunks: Fold in small pieces of fresh apple into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Maple glaze: Swap apple cider in the glaze for maple syrup for a unique twist on the classic flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Apple Cider Glazed Donuts with a warm cup of spiced chai or apple cider for a cozy treat.
Serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
For a festive touch, dust with extra powdered sugar before serving.
Arrange on a beautiful platter with fresh apple slices for a charming presentation.

FAQs about Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

Can I make these Apple Cider Glazed Donuts ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the donuts a day in advance. Just store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, glaze them fresh for that delightful finish.

How do I store leftover donuts?

Leftover Apple Cider Glazed Donuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them for up to two months. Just thaw and glaze when you’re ready!

Can I use homemade apple cider?

Yes! Homemade apple cider works beautifully in this recipe. It adds a personal touch and enhances the flavor of your donuts. Just make sure it’s well-strained for the best results.

What can I serve with these donuts?

These donuts pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea. You can also serve them with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Definitely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. The texture will still be delicious, and you won’t miss out on that amazing apple flavor!

Final Thoughts

Making these Apple Cider Glazed Donuts is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of pulling a warm batch from the oven, the sweet aroma filling your home, and the smiles on your loved ones’ faces are priceless. Each bite is a reminder of cozy fall days and family gatherings. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or share them at a gathering, these donuts bring a sense of warmth and happiness. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the magic of baking, and let these delightful treats become a cherished part of your autumn traditions!