How to Make Delicious Baked Apple Cider Donuts at Home

There’s something about apple cider donuts that just screams fall. The blend of apple cider, cinnamon, and warm spices brings cozy flavors that make these baked apple cider donuts irresistible. Unlike the classic deep-fried version, these donuts are baked, which makes them lighter, simpler, and easy to prepare at home. Plus, this recipe uses pantry-friendly ingredients, so you can enjoy these tasty treats anytime you crave a little taste of autumn.

In this recipe, I’ll walk you through the process of making these donuts from scratch, with easy steps and simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking to bake these donuts with your kids or just enjoy a cozy treat at home, this baked apple cider donut recipe will bring warmth to your fall season!

Why You’ll Love These Baked Apple Cider Donuts

1. They’re Baked, Not Fried
These donuts are oven-baked, which makes them a lighter alternative to traditional fried donuts. They still have a fluffy, moist texture but with less oil.

2. Full of Cozy, Fall Flavors
Each bite is packed with apple cider and a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg. These donuts are like a warm hug on a crisp autumn day!

3. Quick and Easy Recipe
No need to reduce the apple cider, and the batter comes together quickly. You can have warm, homemade donuts ready in just 30 minutes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a quick look at the ingredients used in these baked apple cider donuts:

• Apple Cider: Adds that quintessential fall flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the base and structure for the donuts.
• Cane Sugar & Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a bit of depth to the flavor.
• Butter: Keeps the donuts moist and adds richness.
• Greek Yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tang.
• Egg: Helps bind the ingredients and gives the donuts a nice, fluffy texture.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the apple cider and spices.
• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Classic fall spices that add warmth to the donuts.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Donut Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with a bit of melted butter or cooking spray. This will help the donuts come out easily once they’re baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup cane sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

The combination of cane and brown sugar provides a balance of sweetness and depth, while the spices give these donuts that irresistible fall flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream for extra richness)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

This blend of wet ingredients makes the donuts moist and flavorful without being overly dense.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can make the donuts tough.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon the batter into a piping bag or a large ziplock bag with the corner cut off. Pipe the batter into each donut cavity, filling each about 3/4 full. You could also use a spoon and just spread out the batter in the donut pan.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the donuts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Add the Topping

For that classic apple cider donut taste, dip each donut in melted butter and roll in a cinnamon sugar mixture. This step gives the donuts a deliciously crisp coating that adds a little sweetness and spice to each bite.

Topping Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup cane sugar
• 1-2 tsp cinnamon

Simply dip each donut in the butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve the donuts warm, with a mug of hot apple cider or a cozy cup of coffee. They are also amazing once they are cooled.

Tips for Making the Best Baked Apple Cider Donuts

1. Choose Quality Apple Cider
   Using good-quality apple cider is essential for achieving that authentic apple flavor. Look for cider that has no added sugars or preservatives.
2. Use a Piping Bag for Easy Filling
   Piping the batter into the donut pan makes it easier to control and gives you evenly sized donuts.
3. Don’t Skip the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
   The topping adds a delicious crunch and that classic donut-shop taste. Dipping the donuts in melted butter helps the sugar mixture stick and gives them a rich, buttery flavor.

FAQ About Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Q: Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
A: Yes! You can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. The texture may be slightly different, but they should still turn out delicious.

Q: How should I store these donuts?
A: Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you’d like to keep them longer, freeze them without the topping and add the topping when ready to eat.

Q: Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
A: While apple cider is recommended for the best flavor, you can substitute it with apple juice in a pinch. Keep in mind that the flavor may be a bit milder.

Why These Baked Apple Cider Donuts Are Perfect for Fall

Apple cider donuts are a fall classic for a reason. The sweet-tart apple flavor, the warm spices, and the fluffy, cake-like texture make them a treat that’s worth every bite. Baking them at home lets you enjoy that delicious taste without any frying, and this recipe keeps it simple so you can spend more time enjoying the season with your family.

Whether you’re planning a cozy weekend at home or just looking for an easy fall recipe to make with the kids, these baked apple cider donuts are a great choice. The recipe is straightforward, and the result is donuts that are light, fluffy, and full of flavor.

Final Thoughts

These baked apple cider donuts bring the cozy flavors of fall to your kitchen, and they’re easy to make with ingredients you likely already have on hand. Try them out, share them with loved ones, and embrace the warmth of the season with each delicious bite. Enjoy!