Name: Irresistibly Soft Baked Apple Cider Donuts Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 31 min
Ingredients: 2 cups apple cider (Key flavor base, reduce slowly for concentrated taste.); 2 cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure and texture for soft, cakey donuts.); 2 teaspoons baking powder (Essential leavening agent for a perfect rise.); 0.5 teaspoon baking soda (Essential leavening agent for a perfect rise.); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (Adds warmth and a classic flavor that's perfect for fall.); 1 teaspoon apple pie spice (Enhances that autumnal goodness.); 1 teaspoon salt (A pinch to balance the sweetness.); 0.5 cup granulated sugar (Sweetness and moisture.); 0.5 cup brown sugar (Brings in caramel notes.); 1 large egg (Binds all the ingredients together.); 0.25 cup butter (Melted, infuses richness.); 0.75 cup milk (Gives moisture and tender crumb.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Enhances all those flavors.); 0.25 cup melted butter (Coats the donuts for topping.); 0.5 cup cinnamon-sugar mixture (Sweet, spicy finishing touch.)

The sweet aroma of spiced apple cider wafts through the kitchen as I pull a batch of Baked Apple Cider Donuts from the oven. With fall in full swing, there’s nothing that quite captures that cozy seasonal spirit like these light, cakey treats. This delightful recipe skips the frying mess, giving you a healthier option that still packs a punch of irresistible apple flavor. Whether it’s for a leisurely weekend breakfast or an afternoon snack, these donuts are bound to become a favorite in your home. Imagine sharing warm, cinnamon-sugar-dusted donuts with friends, evoking memories of autumn fairs and crisp air. Ready to dive into this easy, heartwarming recipe? Let’s make some magic in the kitchen!

Why Are These Donuts So Special?

Irresistible Flavor: Each bite of these Baked Apple Cider Donuts is a burst of warm cinnamon and sweet apple, reminiscent of your favorite fall memories.

Easy to Make: This simple recipe requires no frying—making cooking effortless and clean!

Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert, they pair beautifully with warm drinks or can be served at gatherings.

Quick Baking Time: In just about 10-11 minutes, you’ll have fresh, warm treats ready to enjoy—ideal for busy mornings or unexpected guests!

A Cozy Touch: Bring the fall spirit to your kitchen and share these delightful donuts with family and friends; they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Dive into this recipe and check out other comforting options like Pumpkin Spice Muffins to warm your autumn days!

Baked Apple Cider Donuts Ingredients

• For the Donuts

Apple Cider – Key flavor base, reduce slowly for concentrated taste.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture for soft, cakey donuts.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents for a perfect rise.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and a classic flavor that’s perfect for fall.
Apple Pie Spice – Enhances that autumnal goodness; feel free to substitute with more cinnamon or nutmeg.
Salt – A pinch to balance the sweetness.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetness and moisture to make each bite delightful.
Brown Sugar – Brings in caramel notes and helps retain moisture.
Egg – Binds all the ingredients together; a flax or chia egg works for a vegan option.
Butter (melted) – Infuses richness; can be swapped with oil for a dairy-free version.
Milk – Gives moisture and a tender crumb; plant-based milk is a great alternative if needed.
Vanilla Extract – Just enough to enhance all those flavors.

• For the Coating

Melted Butter – Coats the donuts for that wonderful cinnamon-sugar topping.
Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture – A delightful blend that adds a sweet, spicy finishing touch to your Baked Apple Cider Donuts.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
In a small saucepan, pour in 2 cups of apple cider and bring it to a simmer over medium-low heat. Allow it to reduce slowly for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reduces to about ½ cup. Once reduced, remove from heat and let it cool completely.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) while you prepare your donut pan. Lightly grease the cavities with non-stick cooking spray or melted butter to ensure your Baked Apple Cider Donuts release easily after baking. Set aside, ready for the batter.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of apple pie spice. Ensure there are no lumps; this will help create light, fluffy donuts once baked.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix ¼ cup of melted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, ½ cup of brown sugar, 1 large egg, ¾ cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Once combined, stir in the cooled apple cider until you have a smooth mixture, bringing all the flavors together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gently add the wet ingredients to the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix. The batter for your Baked Apple Cider Donuts will be thick, which is just what you want for that perfect cake-like texture.

Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan
Using a piping bag or a spoon, carefully fill each donut cavity about halfway with the batter, ensuring even distribution. This will help the donuts rise perfectly and have that delightful shape. If using a piping bag, it makes the process tidier and easier.

Step 7: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in your preheated oven and bake for 10–11 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as they are done when the edges feel lightly golden and the tops spring back when gently touched. Remove the pan from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.

Step 8: Coat in Cinnamon-Sugar
Carefully remove the donuts from the pan and let them cool on a wire rack. While still warm, dip each donut in melted butter and then roll it in a cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly. This will add a delightful sweetness and that classic fall flavor to your Baked Apple Cider Donuts.

What to Serve with Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn by complementing these delightful baked treats with the perfect pairings.

Warm Apple Cider: A classic choice, this spiced drink enhances the apple flavor of the donuts and sets a comforting tone.
Maple Latte: The sweetness of maple syrup in your latte beautifully contrasts with the cinnamon-sugar toppings, creating a harmonious blend.
Spiced Pumpkin Soup: For a hearty touch, serve alongside creamy pumpkin soup; the flavors echo the season and create a lovely balance.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a fruit salad with apples, pears, and citrus adds brightness and a crisp texture to complete the meal.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea pair wonderfully with the donuts, making for an inviting afternoon treat that soothes the soul.
Whipped Cream: A simple dollop provides a creamy contrast, perfect for serving alongside, turning your donuts into a delightful dessert.
Chocolate Drizzle: For those with a sweet tooth, a drizzle of melted chocolate can elevate the donuts to new levels of indulgence.

Each of these pairings not only enriches your dining experience but also enhances the nostalgia of your Baked Apple Cider Donuts, making them a memorable treat to savor.

Baked Apple Cider Donuts Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can take your Baked Apple Cider Donuts to a whole new level!

Chopped Apples: Add 1 cup of finely diced apples to the batter for an extra burst of freshness and texture.
Nutty Delight: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a heartier flavor profile.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple glaze over the cooled donuts for a sweet, sticky finish that screams fall.
Coconut Flour: Use 1 cup of coconut flour instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option that still tastes divine.
Spiced Variation: Boost the warmth by adding 1 teaspoon of nutmeg or cardamom along with your existing spices, creating a more complex flavor.
Dairy-Free: Swap all dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut oil for delicious vegan donuts.
Chocolate Drizzle: After coating in cinnamon-sugar, drizzle melted dark chocolate over the tops for a rich and indulgent treat.
Savory Kick: For the adventurous, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dry mix for a surprising, delightful heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet apple flavor.

Each variation adds a unique flair, keeping your baking exciting and your taste buds tingling. Happy baking, and don’t forget to check out Pumpkin Spice Muffins for another cozy treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Apple Cider Donuts are ideal for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry and wet ingredients separately, then refrigerating them. Just remember to allow the wet mixture to come to room temperature before combining it with the dry ingredients to maintain that fluffy texture. Additionally, you can reduce the apple cider and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the ingredients and fill your donut pan as per the original directions. You’ll have delightful, fresh donuts with minimal effort, perfect for those bustling mornings!

Storage Tips for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Room Temperature: Keep your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their soft, cakey texture.
Fridge: If you want to store them longer, refrigerate the donuts for up to 5 days to keep them fresh, but note they may lose some of their initial fluffiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Baked Apple Cider Donuts in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: To bring back the freshness, reheat thawed donuts in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven until warm.

Expert Tips for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Reduce Cider Properly: Always simmer the apple cider over low heat to concentrate the flavors without burning it; this enhances your donuts’ taste.
Use a Piping Bag: For neat filling of the donut pan, a piping bag is essential. It ensures each donut has an even shape and makes cleanup a breeze.
Mind the Baking Time: Check your donuts at the 10-minute mark; overbaking can lead to a dry texture. They should spring back lightly when touched.
Grease Between Batches: If making multiple batches, remember to re-grease the pan before filling it again for optimal release of your Baked Apple Cider Donuts.
Experiment with Mix-ins: Feel free to add chopped apples or walnuts to the batter for a delightful twist and added texture in every bite.

Baked Apple Cider Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for the apple cider?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using fresh, sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the spices and will enhance the overall taste of your donuts. Avoid using tart apples, as they may not provide the richness you want in these treats.

How should I store my Baked Apple Cider Donuts?
You can store your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you wish to keep them longer, refrigeration is an option for up to 5 days; just know that the texture may slightly change. To maintain their softness, I suggest warming them slightly in the microwave before eating!

Can I freeze Baked Apple Cider Donuts? What’s the best way?
Yes, you can freeze these delightful donuts! To freeze, place them in a freezer-safe bag after they’re completely cooled, and they can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge and then reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven to warm them up for that just-baked taste.

Why are my donuts dense instead of light and cakey?
Very often, this occurs due to overmixing the batter. When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. If the batter is overworked, the gluten in the flour can become tough, leading to denser donuts. Also, ensure proper measuring of your flour—scooping directly from the bag can result in an overly dense batter. I recommend spooning flour into your measuring cup and leveling off for accuracy.

Can I use a substitute for the egg in this recipe?
Certainly! If you prefer a vegan option or have an egg allergy, you can use a flax egg or chia egg. To make one flax egg, simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s gelatinous. This substitution binds well and keeps your donuts moist!

Are these donuts suitable for pets or people with allergies?
While these Baked Apple Cider Donuts are scrumptious for humans, they are not suitable for dogs due to ingredients like sugar and spice. If you have allergies, my recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and dairy. To make it allergy-friendly, consider using plant-based milk and a flax or chia egg, along with gluten-free flour to accommodate those sensitivities.