Baked Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

When I first tried this Baked Apple Cider Donuts Recipe, I was instantly hooked by the delicious balance of cozy spices and the sweet tang of apple cider you can actually taste in every bite. What I love most about these donuts is how they’re baked, not fried, so you get all the comforting flavors with less mess and a lighter feel. Whether it’s for a crisp fall morning or a weekend brunch with friends, these donuts bring that magical homemade touch that I know you’ll appreciate.

You’ll find that making this Baked Apple Cider Donuts Recipe is straightforward, even if you don’t consider yourself much of a baker. The process of reducing the cider to concentrate all that apple goodness is such a fun step, and it absolutely makes the donuts sing. Plus, the cinnamon-spiced sugar coating adds an irresistible finish – I promise your family and guests will go crazy for them!

Ingredients You’ll Need

I always say the best donuts start with good ingredients — and here, everything comes together beautifully with simple pantry staples and fresh apple cider. Picking a good-quality cider really makes a difference in flavor.

• Apple cider: Use fresh, unfiltered cider if you can; it has more depth than the clear versions.
• All-purpose flour: Spoon and level the flour to avoid dense donuts – I’ve found it really helps keep them light.
• Baking soda and baking powder: The combo ensures perfect rise and fluffiness.
• Ground cinnamon: Essential for that warm spice note everyone loves.
• Apple pie spice: A fragrant blend that deepens the autumnal flavor; or make your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds richness without overpowering flavors.
• Egg: Brings moisture and structure to the batter.
• Brown sugar: Adds a subtle molasses note and moisture.
• Granulated sugar: For sweetness and that irresistible sugar-cinnamon coating.
• Milk: Use whole or 2% milk for the best texture and tenderness.
• Pure vanilla extract: A touch to lift all the flavors.

Variations

I love experimenting with this Baked Apple Cider Donuts Recipe by swapping spices or toppings depending on the season or my mood. Feel free to make these your own – you’ll find they’re incredibly flexible!

• Spiced Up: I’ve added a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the batter for a little extra warmth and complexity, and it’s always a hit.
• Gluten-Free Option: By swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, these donuts still turn out moist and flavorful, perfect for friends with dietary needs.
• Maple Glaze: Instead of the cinnamon-sugar coating, I sometimes drizzle a maple glaze for a sweeter, stickier treat that’s great for special occasions.
• Different Toppings: Chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar can add nice texture and visual appeal if you want to mix things up.

How to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider to Concentrate the Flavor

This part is such a fun kitchen moment: simmer the apple cider slowly over low heat, stirring now and then until about 1/2 cup remains. It takes roughly 20 minutes but I keep an eye on it after the 10-minute mark so it doesn’t burn. This reduction is what gives the donuts that juicy apple punch that you can’t get from just adding cider straight in.

Step 2: Prep Your Donut Pan and Oven

While the cider is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and generously spray your donut pan with non-stick spray. Trust me, this step makes it so much easier to pop the donuts out without any tears or crumbles.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients Together

Whisk the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and salt in a large bowl until evenly combined. Taking a moment here makes sure your donuts will have an even texture and flavor throughout.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients and Batter

The magic is in this next step: whisk melted butter, egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, and vanilla extract together until smooth, then pour into the dry ingredients. Add the cooled reduced cider and mix until just combined – the batter will be thick but smooth. Overmixing can make donuts tough, so stir gently!

Step 5: Fill Donut Pan and Bake

For neat filling, I always spoon the batter into a large zip-top bag, cut a corner off, and pipe it into each donut cavity until about halfway full. Bake for 10-11 minutes; check by gently pressing the top — if it springs back, they’re ready. Let them cool briefly in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Don’t forget to re-grease the pan for the rest of the batter!

Step 6: Coat Your Donuts in Cinnamon Sugar

This is the finishing touch everyone raves about. Mix together sugar, cinnamon, and apple pie spice in a bowl. While the donuts are still warm enough to handle, dip each side first into melted butter, then roll them in the spiced sugar blend. The butter helps the sugar cling and gives each bite that perfect sweet-crisp coating.

How to Serve Baked Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep the cinnamon sugar coating simple because that rustic look and sweet-spiced flavor are perfect. But sometimes I add a light dusting of powdered sugar or sprinkle with chopped pecans for a bit of crunch and a fancy touch. Both ways work great, and I love how they keep the donuts looking irresistible.

Side Dishes

These donuts pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or chai tea. For a nice breakfast spread, I like serving them alongside scrambled eggs or a fresh fruit salad to balance the sweetness. It’s such a cozy combination that really feels special — your guests will definitely feel pampered.

Creative Ways to Present

For seasonal parties, I’ve arranged the donuts in a decorative stack on a rustic wooden board with cinnamon sticks and mini pumpkins around. Another fun idea is threading a few on skewers for a “donut kabob” centerpiece. These little touches make the donuts feel festive and perfect for sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days — though, honestly, they rarely last that long in my house! If you want to keep them longer, popping them in the fridge for up to 5 days works well; just bring them to room temp before enjoying.

Freezing

I freeze any extras individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. When I’m ready, I thaw them overnight in the fridge. This way, they keep their fresh-baked texture and still taste delightful days later.

Reheating

To reheat, I like to pop the donuts in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5 minutes to warm them through without drying them out. You can also microwave for 15-20 seconds, but the oven really brings back that slightly crisp sugar coating.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Baked Apple Cider Donuts Recipe turns out every single time — soft, fragrant, and perfectly spiced with that tasty cider twist. It’s become a favorite to bring to gatherings or just for cozy weekend mornings at home. If you’re looking for a dessert or snack that’s easy to whip up but feels like a special treat, I wholeheartedly recommend giving these a try. You’re going to love sharing this little slice of fall with your family, just like I do!

Print