Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Name: Baked Apple Cider Donuts: Discover Irresistible Flavor!
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

Posted on August 2, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to 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 dessert; they’re a warm hug on a chilly day. Perfect for busy moms like me, this recipe is a quick solution for those moments when you want to impress your loved ones without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch of Baked Apple Cider Donuts that will have everyone asking for seconds!

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 snack. The warm spices and sweet apple cider create a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible. Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can indulge without the guilt. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a fall favorite!

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: For richness and moisture, melted to blend seamlessly into the batter.
Large eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add a fluffy texture.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the donuts rise, making them light and airy.
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 and Prepare the Pan

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for even baking. While the oven warms up, grease your donut pan with a little butter or cooking spray. This ensures your donuts slide out easily, keeping their perfect shape intact.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients well is key. It ensures that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout your Baked Apple Cider Donuts, making every bite delicious.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the apple cider, melted butter, and eggs until well combined. This step is important for creating a smooth batter. If the wet ingredients are mixed thoroughly, they will blend seamlessly with the dry ingredients, resulting in a light and fluffy donut.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the batter; a few lumps are okay. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, and we want them to be light and airy!

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. If you want perfectly shaped donuts, take your time with this step for a neat presentation.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

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 smell will be heavenly, and you’ll know they’re almost done.

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. For the best enjoyment, serve them warm. You can dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze for an extra treat!

Tips for Success

Measure your ingredients accurately for the best results.
Don’t skip preheating the oven; it’s essential for even baking.
Use a piping bag for easy filling of the donut pan.
Let the donuts cool completely before glazing or dusting.
Experiment with spices; a little extra cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor.

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.
Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to success.
Cooling rack: Helps donuts cool evenly; a plate can work too!

Variations of Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based butter to make these donuts vegan-friendly.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for an extra kick of flavor that complements the apple cider beautifully.
Apple Cinnamon Swirl: Swirl in some apple pie filling or chopped apples into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple syrup glaze on top for a sweet finish that pairs perfectly with the apple cider.

Serving Suggestions for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Pair with a warm cup of spiced apple cider for a cozy fall treat.
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.
Dust with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.
Top with a maple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
Enjoy with a side of fresh fruit for a balanced snack.

FAQs about Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Can I use store-bought apple cider for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly in these Baked Apple Cider Donuts. Just make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor.

How do I store leftover donuts?

To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days!

Can I freeze Baked Apple Cider Donuts?

Yes, you can freeze these donuts! Just wrap them individually 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 in this recipe?

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!

How can I make these donuts healthier?

To make your Baked Apple Cider Donuts healthier, consider reducing the sugar or using a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also substitute whole wheat flour for a boost of fiber!

Final Thoughts

Making Baked Apple Cider Donuts is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to your kitchen. The delightful aroma fills the air, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites family and friends to gather. Each bite is a reminder of crisp autumn days and sweet memories. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or sharing them with loved ones, these donuts are sure to bring smiles. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the magic of fall, and let these Baked Apple Cider Donuts become a cherished tradition in your home!