As the temperatures dip and the leaves begin to change, there’s an undeniable magic in the air—a call to celebrate the flavors of fall. It was during one of those cozy autumn afternoons, wrapped up with a mug of warm cider, that I stumbled upon a recipe for Classic Apple Cider Doughnuts. The aroma of cinnamon wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to childhood memories of crisp apple picking and family gatherings.
These doughnuts are more than just a treat; they’re a way to savor the season. Soft and tender, each bite bursts with the rich, spiced essence of apple cider, perfectly balanced with a hint of sweetness. Whether you enjoy them as a comforting breakfast or a delightful snack, these doughnuts are sure to bring smiles to your family’s faces. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them a perfect addition to any fall gathering or family brunch. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe and make some sweet memories!
Why will you love Apple Cider Donuts?
Soft and Tender: These doughnuts are incredibly soft, melting in your mouth with each bite.
Bursting Flavor: Infused with warm spices and apple cider, the taste captures the essence of fall.
Family-Friendly Fun: Perfect for kids and adults alike, they make breakfast or snack time feel special.
Quick to Make: Whip these up in just over half an hour, effortlessly elevating your autumn mornings.
Versatile Treat: Enjoy them plain, with a cinnamon sugar coating, or explore other topping variations.
Ready for a sweet and cozy treat? Get baking and enjoy these delicious doughnuts!
Apple Cider Donuts Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need to create those irresistible Apple Cider Donuts that fill your kitchen with the scent of fall!
For the Batter
- Nonstick cooking spray – Ensures the doughnuts release easily from the pan.
- All-purpose flour (1¾ cups) – Provides the doughnuts with structure for that soft, tender bite.
- Baking powder (1¼ teaspoons) – Helps the doughnuts rise beautifully, creating that light texture.
- Sea salt (¾ teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons) – Adds a warm, spiced note; alternate with cardamom for a cozy twist.
- Freshly grated nutmeg (½ teaspoon) – Brings a delightful, aromatic flavor that makes these doughnuts special.
- Unsalted butter (10 tablespoons) – Adds richness and moisture; be sure it’s room temperature for easy mixing.
- Light brown sugar (¾ cup) – Infuses depth and moisture; coconut sugar can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup) – Sweetens the batter; can swap for a sugar alternative if desired.
- Large eggs (2) – These bind the mixture and contribute to the doughnuts’ fluffiness; consider flax eggs for a vegan-friendly option.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) – Elevates the flavor, enhancing the overall taste experience.
- Apple cider (½ cup) – The star ingredient that provides a sweet, tangy touch; reduced cider works for an even bolder flavor.
For the Topping
- Additional granulated sugar (½ cup) – Perfect for sweetening the coating.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – Complements the sweetness and gives a delightful finish.
With these simple ingredients and a dash of love, you’re on your way to making the best Apple Cider Donuts that will warm hearts and fill bellies!
How to Make Apple Cider Donuts
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grease your doughnut pans with nonstick cooking spray so your delicious creations will pop out easily.
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sea salt, ground cinnamon, and freshly grated nutmeg. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking powder and spices for the best flavor balance.
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Cream Butter and Sugars: In a stand mixer, cream the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This will help create a delightful texture in your doughnuts.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then pour in the vanilla extract, allowing each ingredient to meld beautifully into your batter.
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Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the apple cider. Stir gently until everything is fully combined; be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough doughnuts.
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Pour Batter into Pans: Spoon the batter into the prepared doughnut pans, filling each cavity about ⅔ full. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Prepare the Topping: While the doughnuts bake, melt the remaining butter for the topping. In a small bowl, mix together the additional granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
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Coat the Doughnuts: Once the doughnuts are baked and cooled for about 5 minutes, brush them with the melted butter and dredge them in the cinnamon sugar mixture for a sweet finish before serving.
Optional: Serve warm with fresh apple slices or a warm cup of cider for the ultimate fall experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Apple Cider Donuts?
Delight in the cozy flavors of fall by pairing these sweet treats with complementary sides that elevate your dining experience.
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Fresh Apple Slices: Crisp and juicy apple slices balance the sweetness of the doughnuts, offering a refreshing crunch that echoes autumn’s bounty. Serve them drizzled with a little honey for a touch of sweetness.
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Warm Apple Cider: A classic fall beverage, warm apple cider enhances the spiced notes of the doughnuts, creating a comforting and nostalgic pairing perfect for chilly mornings.
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Cream Cheese Glaze: This rich, tangy glaze adds a creamy texture and a hint of tartness, beautifully contrasting with the sweet doughnuts and making each bite feel indulgent.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Embrace the seasonal vibes with this spicy coffee beverage. The warmth of the spices in your doughnuts and latte create a harmonious flavor experience that’s cozy and inviting.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside warm doughnuts makes for a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures, creating an irresistible treat after a family dinner.
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Chai Tea: The robust spice blend complements the flavors of your doughnuts. Enjoy a steaming cup to warm your hands while relishing a donut, perfect for fall afternoons!
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Caramel Sauce for Dipping: For those with a sweet tooth, a warm caramel sauce adds an indulgent touch that pairs beautifully with the soft doughnuts, making each bite even more heavenly.
These pairing ideas are sure to make your Apple Cider Donuts a standout star on your fall menu!
Make Ahead Options
These Classic Apple Cider Doughnuts are perfect for meal prep lovers seeking a time-saving solution! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just mix the wet and dry ingredients, then pour the batter into doughnut pans, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven and pop the chilled batter in for about 12-15 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, warm apple cider doughnuts with minimal effort on those busy mornings. For the best quality, avoid coating with cinnamon sugar until right before serving, keeping them irresistibly delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Donuts
- Room Temperature: Store your apple cider donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them soft and ready to enjoy.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the donuts individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to a month. This method preserves their flavor and texture.
- Reheating: To enjoy that fresh-baked taste, reheat the donuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes before serving. Enjoy a taste of fall anytime!
- Topping Consideration: If you’ve coated your donuts with sugar or glaze, it’s best to freeze them without toppings to maintain their crunch. Add toppings fresh after thawing!
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Donuts
- Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing; this helps to create a light and fluffy texture in your apple cider donuts.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until the flour is incorporated; overmixing can lead to tough, dense doughnuts.
- Cider Reduction: For a bolder flavor, reduce the apple cider in a saucepan before adding it to the batter—it intensifies the sweetness and complexity.
- Proper Cooling: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack; this prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Topping Variation: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings, such as a glaze or a powdered sugar dusting; it personalizes your apple cider donuts and keeps things exciting!
Apple Cider Donuts Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative and make these doughnuts your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious, gluten-free treat.
- Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water for each egg) and use vegan butter for a plant-based version.
- Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup for a sweet, rich topping that enhances the autumn flavors.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to the batter for an unexpected, warm kick that adds depth.
- Fruit-Infused: Mix in diced apples or dried cranberries to the batter for bursts of fruity goodness in every bite.
- Savory Twist: Substituting the cinnamon with herbs like rosemary or thyme can transform these doughnuts into an exciting savory snack.
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts into the batter for added texture and richness.
- Syrupy Finish: Instead of cinnamon sugar, drizzle a warm apple cider syrup over the cooled doughnuts for a deliciously sticky sweet finish.
Enjoy experimenting and making these doughnuts a delightful reflection of your own taste!
Apple Cider Donuts Recipe FAQs
What type of apple cider should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor, I recommend using fresh, unfiltered apple cider. If you can find reduced cider, it packs an even bolder sweetness, which enhances the taste profile of your doughnuts. Avoid artificial or overly sweetened ciders, as they may alter the end result.
How long can I store my apple cider donuts, and what’s the best method?
Store your apple cider donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy them for longer, you can freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to a month. They’ll remain delicious, and you can easily reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked taste!
Can I freeze apple cider donuts, and how should I do it properly?
Yes, you can freeze apple cider donuts! To keep them at their best, wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to a month. For later enjoyment, thaw them at room temperature, then reheat them in the oven for a warm, cozy treat that tastes like they just came out of the oven!
What should I do if my donuts come out dense or tough?
Very good question! If your apple cider donuts turn out dense or tough, it’s often due to overmixing the batter. Be sure to mix only until the dry ingredients are incorporated into the wet mixture. Additionally, ensure your eggs are at room temperature as this helps achieve a lighter texture. If you find your batter too thick, adding a splash more cider can help as well.
Are apple cider donuts safe for kids, and what about allergies?
Absolutely! These apple cider donuts are a delightful treat for kids, but do take note of any food allergies. They contain eggs and dairy, so if you have little ones with allergies, you might want to substitute with flax eggs and dairy-free butter. Always be cautious of cross-contamination if you’re serving to children with nut allergies or other dietary restrictions.
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes, you can use apple juice in a pinch! However, keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor profile of your apple cider donuts. While apple cider adds a rich, tangy sweetness, apple juice tends to be sweeter and less complex. Whenever possible, I recommend sticking with apple cider for the best results.
Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts for Cozy Fall Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your doughnut pans with nonstick cooking spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, sea salt, ground cinnamon, and freshly grated nutmeg.
- In a stand mixer, cream the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the apple cider, without overmixing.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared doughnut pans, filling each cavity about ⅔ full. Bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Melt the remaining butter for the topping. In a small bowl, mix the additional sugar and ground cinnamon.
- Once the doughnuts cool for about 5 minutes, brush them with melted butter and coat in the cinnamon sugar mixture.