There’s something truly special about biting into a warm, sugar-dusted apple cider doughnut in the crisp autumn air.
The subtle sweetness of apple cider, gently spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, makes every bite taste like fall itself. This recipe captures that cozy, nostalgic feeling and brings it right into your kitchen, no orchard visit required.
A few years back, I stumbled upon a farm stand selling apple cider doughnuts, and I’ve been obsessed ever since. But instead of waiting for my annual trip to the countryside, I wanted to recreate that magic at home.
What’s great about this recipe is that it’s baked, not fried—so you get that irresistible cider flavor without the extra oil. Plus, using fresh apple cider reduces the doughnuts down to the perfect sweetness, making them taste like a fresh autumn breeze.
Why I Love This Recipe
- It’s a taste of fall in every bite – I love how the apple cider shines through the doughnuts with that perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
- Healthier twist – Baking instead of frying means I can enjoy these doughnuts without feeling too guilty.
- Nostalgic and cozy – These bring back memories of fall festivals and chilly mornings sipping cider—right in my own kitchen.
- They’re surprisingly easy – No need to be intimidated; with a simple dough and a doughnut pan, you’ll have warm, fresh doughnuts in no time.
Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts Recipe
Equipment
- Small Saucepan
- Whisk
- Large mixing bowl
- Donut Pan
- Non-stick spray
- Zipped-top bag
- Wire Cooling Rack
- Measuring Cups
Ingredients
- 1 and 1/2 cups 360ml apple cider
- 2 cups 250g all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)*
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 Tablespoons 28g unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice*
- 1/2 cup 100g packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup 100g granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup 120ml milk, at room temperature*
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Topping
- 1 cup 200g granulated sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon apple pie spice*
- 6 Tablespoons 85g unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Reduce the apple cider by simmering it on low heat until you have 1/2 cup (120ml). Stir occasionally and check every 10-20 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C) and spray a donut pan with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and salt. Set aside.
- Whisk the melted butter, egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, and vanilla. Add to the dry ingredients along with the reduced apple cider, and mix until smooth.
- Spoon or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity halfway.
- Bake for 10-11 minutes, until the donuts are lightly browned and bounce back when touched. Cool for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Combine the sugar, cinnamon, and apple pie spice. Coat each donut in melted butter, then in the spiced sugar mixture. Enjoy!
