Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Discovering baked apple cider donuts was like stumbling on a hidden treasure in my autumn kitchen adventures. The soft, fragrant bites filled with spices and that warm apple cider aroma quickly became my go-to cozy treat as the leaves turned orange and crisp outside.

I vividly remember the first time unexpected guests dropped by, and I whipped up these donuts on the spot; their smiles and surprise made the moment something I won>t forget.

Ingredients

• Apple Cider: I always reach for fresh, locally pressed cider to get that deep, natural sweetness and spice meld
• Butter: Unsalted melted butter blends smoothly and lets me control the salt balance perfectly
• Flour: I use all-purpose since it gives just the right tender crumb without weighing the donuts down
• Spices: Ground cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth and complexity, and I never skimp on them
• Vanilla Extract: Adds a subtle layer of fragrant sweetness that rounds everything out

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease your 12-cavity donut pan lightly so none of that buttery batter sticks.

Reduce the Magic:

Simmer the apple cider gently until it shrinks down to about half a cup; the sweet aroma will start to fill the kitchen, teasing you.

Mix the Dry Goods:

Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder and soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly combined and fluffy looking.

Create the Wet Blend:

In another bowl, blend your reduced cider with melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla. Feel that smooth texture developing?

Marry Wet and Dry:

Fold the wet ingredients into the dry just until they come together — don't overmix or your donuts might get tough.

Fill the Molds:

Spoon or pipe batter into each donut cavity about three quarters full; it's fun to watch how they fill out and puff up in the oven.

Bake Until Perfect:

Pop them in for 10-12 minutes until a gentle springiness tells you they're done—watch the golden edges peek out.

Cool and Coat:

Let the donuts rest in the pan for a bit, then transfer to a wire rack. Brush with melted butter and toss in cinnamon sugar, coating every warm nook and cranny.

Enjoy:

Serve warm or let them cool and enjoy later with a cup of hot cider or tea.

Save

One chilly morning, serving these donuts felt like passing along more than food—it was comfort wrapped in a bite, creating a memory of shared joy and simple pleasure that lingers warmly today.

Keeping It Fresh

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheating them gently in the oven brings back that just-baked glory without drying them out.

When You're Missing Something

If you find yourself out of apple cider, apple juice plus a pinch of cinnamon can stand in a pinch, but the donut taste will be more subtle. I also like tossing in a bit of finely diced peeled apple for texture and extra flavor.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Pair these donuts with hot apple cider or spiced tea for a perfect autumn treat. They also work wonderfully at brunch when served alongside fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream.

• Don't forget to brush the donuts with butter before adding sugar—it helps the coating stick and adds richness
• If you're gifting these, a simple parchment wrap and twine make for a heartfelt presentation
• Clean your donut pan immediately after use to keep it nonstick and ready for next time

Save

Thanks for joining me in this cozy kitchen chat—hope your oven fills with the same happy smells and sweet moments soon.

Recipe FAQs

→ How is the apple cider flavor incorporated?

Apple cider is simmered until reduced to concentrate the flavor, then mixed into the batter with warm spices to infuse the donuts naturally.

→ What spices enhance the flavor?

Cinnamon and nutmeg are used both in the batter and cinnamon sugar coating for a warm, autumnal taste.

→ How do I keep the donuts moist?

Using melted butter and whole milk in the wet ingredients ensures a tender, moist texture after baking.

→ Can these be made ahead and stored?

Yes, store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

→ What equipment is needed for baking?

A 12-cavity donut pan, mixing bowls, a whisk, a saucepan for reducing cider, and a wire rack for cooling are recommended tools.