These Baked Apple Cider Donuts are a fall favorite that capture the warm, spiced flavors of the season. Made with reduced apple cider, these donuts are soft, tender, and perfectly spiced. Coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, they’re an irresistible treat to pair with your morning coffee or enjoy as an afternoon snack. No frying required, making them a healthier twist on the classic!

Necessary Kitchen Equipment

Saucepan
Mixing bowls
Whisk
Donut pan
Cooling rack
Pastry brush

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

1½ cups apple cider
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
1 large egg
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
¼ cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Reduce the Apple Cider:

In a saucepan over medium heat, simmer the apple cider until it reduces to ½ cup. This takes about 10-15 minutes. Let it cool to room temperature.

2. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

4. Mix the Wet Ingredients:

In another bowl, whisk together the egg, granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, milk, vanilla extract, melted butter, and the cooled reduced apple cider.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.

6. Fill the Donut Pan:

Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.

7. Bake the Donuts:

Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack.

8. Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon. Brush each donut lightly with melted butter and dip it into the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat.

Recipe Tips

Don’t Skip the Reduction: Reducing the cider intensifies its flavor and makes these donuts extra flavorful.
Storage: Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Optional Glaze: Drizzle with an apple cider glaze for added sweetness.

What to Serve with This Dish

Warm Apple Cider: Double the fall flavors with a mug of warm apple cider.
Coffee or Tea: Perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Turn them into a dessert by serving with a scoop of ice cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these without a donut pan? Yes! Use a muffin pan to make donut muffins instead.

2. Can I freeze these donuts? Absolutely! Freeze them without the coating for up to 3 months, then thaw and coat before serving.

3. Can I use store-bought apple cider? Yes, but reducing it is key to concentrating the flavor.

These Baked Apple Cider Donuts are a delightful autumn treat that will have you savoring the season with every bite!