Cookies

Warm and Cozy Apple Cider Donuts to Savor this Fall

Posted on

Hey! I'm sara

Welcome to Yummy Yield!

The sweet aroma of baked apple cider donuts drifted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to crisp autumn mornings filled with golden leaves and cozy sweaters. These delightful apple cider baked donuts, rolled in a warm cinnamon sugar coating, are not only easy to whip up but also perfect for savoring those enchanting fall flavors without the mess of frying. Luckily, they’re a guilt-free pleasure the whole family can enjoy, ensuring that busy mornings or weekend brunches become unforgettable moments together. How about treating yourself to a batch of these irresistible donuts that will surely become a seasonal favorite?

Why are these donuts a must-try?

Warm, Cozy Flavors: These apple cider donuts are the embodiment of fall, perfectly infusing the season’s essence into each bite.
No Frying Needed: With a simple baking method, you can enjoy all the goodness of donuts without the hassle of frying, making them a safer and healthier choice.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just under 30 minutes, you can whip these up for a last-minute treat or an impromptu family gathering.
Delightfully Soft Texture: Each donut is tender and infused with apple cider, delivering a moist, cake-like experience that’s simply irresistible.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether for a cozy brunch at home or a neighborhood potluck, these donuts are sure to impress and satisfy kids and adults alike.
Perfect Pairing: Serve them warm alongside a cup of coffee or warm apple cider for a complete fall experience that warms the heart.

Apple Cider Donuts Ingredients

Discover the essential ingredients that make these delightful apple cider donuts a must-bake treat!

For the Donuts

  • Salted Butter – 2 tablespoons, softened; this adds richness and moisture. Substitute with dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version.
  • Vegetable Oil – 2 tablespoons; provides moisture and enhances texture, but you can swap it for melted coconut oil.
  • Granulated Sugar – ¼ cup; sweetens the donuts and helps with structure—no substitutes are suggested for ideal sweetness.
  • Light Brown Sugar – 3 tablespoons, packed; this adds a hint of caramel flavor, and you can use coconut sugar for a different taste.
  • Large Egg – 1; binds the ingredients together while adding richness—replace with a flax or chia egg for a vegan option.
  • Baking Powder – ¾ teaspoon; acts as a leavening agent to create a light texture.
  • Baking Soda – ⅛ teaspoon; works alongside baking powder to enhance rising.
  • Ground Cinnamon – ½ teaspoon; brings a warm spice flavor, with extra cinnamon available if you want more spice.
  • Ground Nutmeg – ½ teaspoon; offers that distinctive fall flavor—optional if you prefer a milder taste.
  • Ground Allspice – ⅛ teaspoon; enhances flavor complexity—optional for a more aromatic donut.
  • Ground Ginger – ⅛ teaspoon; provides a warm, zesty note, and can be adjusted to suit your preference.
  • Salt – ½ teaspoon; balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
  • Vanilla Extract – 1 teaspoon; adds depth of flavor to your apple cider donuts.
  • All-Purpose Flour – 1 ⅓ cups, 160 grams; the main structure-builder—use a 1:1 baking blend for gluten-free needs.
  • Apple Cider – ¼ cup; gives these donuts their essential apple flavor—no substitutions, but fresh cider is best.
  • Milk – ¼ cup; adds moisture—switch to non-dairy milk for a dairy-free option.
  • Melted Butter – ½ cup; for coating the donuts, substitute with a mix of oil and non-dairy butter for a dairy-free version.
  • Granulated Sugar & Ground Cinnamon – 1 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon for the cinnamon sugar coating, with less sugar recommended if you prefer less sweetness.

These ingredients come together to create the warm, cozy flavors of homemade apple cider donuts that your family will adore!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cozy Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, prepare a 6-cavity donut pan by generously greasing it with nonstick spray to ensure your cozy baked apple cider donuts release easily after baking.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 2 tablespoons of softened salted butter, 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil, ¼ cup of granulated sugar, and 3 tablespoons of light brown sugar. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Flavorings
Next, beat in 1 large egg until fully incorporated. Then, add ¾ teaspoon of baking powder, ⅛ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ⅛ teaspoon each of ground allspice and ground ginger, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mix well until the dry ingredients are thoroughly combined with the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Combine the Flour and Liquid Ingredients
Gradually incorporate 1⅓ cups of all-purpose flour, alternating with ¼ cup of apple cider and ¼ cup of milk. Start and end with the flour, mixing gently until just combined. This step ensures you achieve a soft batter, perfect for your flavorful apple cider donuts.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan
Once the batter is ready, use a piping method to fill each cavity of the prepared donut pan about two-thirds full. An easy approach is to transfer the batter into a zip-top bag, snip off a corner, and pipe it into the pan, creating neat rounds.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts
Place the filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10-11 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they are done when the edges turn golden brown and the tops spring back lightly when pressed.

Step 7: Cool the Donuts
After baking, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 2 minutes. This resting time helps them firm up slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. Gently turn out the donuts and let them cool completely.

Step 8: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
While the donuts are still warm, prepare a mixture of 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Dip each donut in ½ cup of melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar until they are evenly coated, creating a deliciously sweet finish.

Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Donuts

  • Grease Generously: Ensure that your donut pan is well-greased to prevent sticking, as baked goods can sometimes cling to the sides.
  • Use a Piping Bag: For a clean filling method, using a zip-top bag as a piping tool allows for easy and precise batter placement.
  • Fresh Cider Matters: Using fresh apple cider enhances the flavor significantly—avoid processed options for the best taste in your donuts.
  • Cool Slightly: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack; this helps maintain their shape.
  • Store Properly: Keep baked apple cider donuts in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness for up to 2 days. Consider freezing for longer storage!
  • Reheat for Best Enjoyment: To refresh leftovers, warm them in a 350°F oven or microwave briefly before serving for that just-baked taste.

What to Serve with Cozy Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Warm beverages and delightful sides enhance the experience of savoring these fall-inspired treats.

  • Hot Apple Cider: This classic pairing amplifies the apple flavor and provides comforting warmth. Sip alongside your donuts for a cozy Autumn experience.
  • Cinnamon Coffee: The subtle spice of cinnamon simulates the donuts’ flavors, creating a harmonious blend that wakes up your taste buds.
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened vanilla whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the crunchy cinnamon sugar coating. It’s a sweet finishing touch!
  • Vanilla Ice Cream: The indulgent creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the moist texture of the donuts. Perfect for those mild fall evenings.
  • Chai Latte: The warming spices in a chai latte echo the flavor profile of the donuts, creating a delightful, aromatic pairing that comforts the soul.
  • Pumpkin Spice Muffins: For those who want to serve up a full breakfast spread, adding pumpkin muffins can enhance the fall appeal and flavor variety. A perfect brunch spread!
  • Maple Glazed Bacon: The salty sweetness of maple bacon creates a beautiful balance with the donuts, providing contrasting textures that delight every bite.
  • Mixed Berry Compote: Fresh berries drizzled over the donuts or served alongside add a pop of freshness and a vibrant color to your fall table.
  • Nut Hot Chocolate: This rich, chocolaty drink topped with whipped cream complements the warm spices of the donuts, creating a luxurious pairing for chilly evenings.

Make Ahead Options

These cozy baked apple cider donuts are a fantastic option for meal prep, perfect for those busy mornings when you need a little extra time! You can prepare the donut batter up to 24 hours ahead of time by mixing it and storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, simply let the batter sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes, then fill the donut pan and bake as directed. If you’d like, you can also bake the donuts ahead of time; they can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Just reheat them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes before dipping them in melted butter and rolling in the cinnamon sugar to keep them deliciously fresh. Enjoy the sweet convenience of having these delightful apple cider donuts ready to serve!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Donuts

Room Temperature: Store apple cider donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them soft and fresh.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze apple cider donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your donuts warm, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes or microwave them briefly for that fresh-baked taste.

Coating Reminder: If you’ve frozen them, recoat in cinnamon sugar after thawing for delightful flavor and texture!

Apple Cider Donuts Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize these delightful donuts to suit your preferences and dietary needs!

  • Gluten-Free: Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour, keeping in mind the texture will be cake-like yet slightly different.
  • Dairy-Free: Use melted coconut oil instead of butter and non-dairy milk for a delicious, accessible treat for everyone.
  • Sugar-Free: Try a monk fruit sweetener in place of granulated sugar to reduce calories and enjoy a guilt-free dessert!
  • Spicy Twist: Seamlessly swap in pumpkin pie spice for the individual spices for a cozy autumnal flavor that’ll tantalize your taste buds.
  • Fruit Infusion: Mix in ½ cup of finely diced apples or pears into the batter for added texture and bursts of fruity flavor.
  • Chocoholic’s Dream: Add in ½ cup of dark chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey twist that pairs perfectly with the apple cider.
  • More Crunch: Consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of oats for an extra crunch in both flavor and texture.
  • Extra Sweetness: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and apple cider over the cooled donuts for an indulgent finish!

Now, grab your apron and let your baking adventure begin! If you’re looking for more recipes to bring comfort to your kitchen, don’t miss out on my delicious Pumpkin Spice Muffins or Homemade Cinnamon Rolls. Happy baking!

Apple Cider Donuts Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best apple cider for the donuts?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your apple cider donuts, opt for fresh, unfiltered apple cider. Look for a product that has a rich, apple-forward aroma without added preservatives or sugars. Avoid clear, filtered apple juice as it doesn’t provide the same deep flavor.

How should I store my baked apple cider donuts?
To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. After that, they may start to lose their soft texture. If you’d like to extend their freshness, freezing them is a great option!

Can I freeze these apple cider donuts?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, first, allow the donuts to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag or an airtight container, where they can stay fresh for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature and recoat in cinnamon sugar before serving for that fresh-baked taste!

What do I do if my donuts sink in the middle?
Very common! If your donuts sink in the middle, it may be due to overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense texture. Ensure to mix just until combined. Additionally, check that your baking powder is fresh, as expired leavening can lead to insufficient rising.

Are these donuts safe for my pet?
Not really! While apple cider itself isn’t harmful to pets, the added sugar and spices (like cinnamon and nutmeg) can be problematic for their digestion. It’s best to keep these yummy apple cider donuts solely for human enjoyment!

Can I substitute flour for a gluten-free option?
Absolutely! To make gluten-free apple cider donuts, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Just keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly, so check the consistency of your batter; it should still be soft and thick.

Apple Cider Donuts

Warm and Cozy Apple Cider Donuts to Savor this Fall

These delicious apple cider donuts are a perfect fall treat, easy to make and free from frying, ensuring everyone can enjoy their cozy flavors.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Donuts
  • 2 tablespoons Salted Butter softened; substitute with dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil or melted coconut oil
  • 0.25 cup Granulated Sugar no substitutes are suggested
  • 3 tablespoons Light Brown Sugar packed; or coconut sugar for a different taste
  • 1 large Egg replace with a flax or chia egg for vegan option
  • 0.75 teaspoon Baking Powder
  • 0.125 teaspoon Baking Soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon extra available if desired
  • 0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg optional for milder taste
  • 0.125 teaspoon Ground Allspice optional for flavor complexity
  • 0.125 teaspoon Ground Ginger adjust to taste
  • 0.5 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
  • 1.33 cups All-Purpose Flour use a 1:1 baking blend for gluten-free
  • 0.25 cup Apple Cider fresh is best
  • 0.25 cup Milk switch to non-dairy milk for dairy-free
  • 0.5 cup Melted Butter for coating; substitute with oil and non-dairy butter
  • 1 cup Granulated Sugar for cinnamon sugar coating
  • 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon for cinnamon sugar coating

Equipment

  • Donut pan

Method
 

Baking Instructions
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 6-cavity donut pan.
  2. Cream together salted butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
  3. Beat in the egg and then add baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, ground ginger, and salt. Mix well.
  4. Gradually incorporate the flour, alternating with apple cider and milk, mixing gently.
  5. Fill each cavity of the donut pan about two-thirds full using a piping method.
  6. Bake for 10-11 minutes, until the edges are golden and the tops spring back when pressed.
  7. Cool the donuts in the pan for about 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
  8. Prepare a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, dip each donut in melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon sugar.

Nutrition

Serving: 1donutCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 200IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 0.5mg

Notes

For best results, ensure the donut pan is well-greased and use fresh apple cider.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating