Apple Cider Baked Donuts

This apple cider donuts recipe is baked, not fried, and full of cozy fall flavor. Learn how to make soft, spiced donuts at home with apple cider and a cinnamon sugar coating.

Apple cider donuts are one of the most iconic treats of fall — warm, fluffy, coated in cinnamon-sugar, and bursting with apple cider flavor. But here’s the best part: you don’t need to visit an orchard or bakery to enjoy them. This apple cider donuts recipe is simple to make at home using pantry staples and your oven — no frying needed! The result is tender, golden donuts that taste like a crisp autumn morning.

From the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filling your kitchen to the warm bite of a sugar-crusted donut fresh out of the oven, this apple cider donuts recipe brings the magic of fall to your fingertips.

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Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

This apple cider donuts recipe is about more than just great flavor — it’s about the full cozy baking experience. Here’s why it’s worth making:

• Easy and beginner-friendly: No special equipment or frying oil required. Just a mixing bowl, a donut pan, and your oven!
• Apple cider shines: Using real apple cider brings rich, fruity notes that balance the warm spices perfectly.
• Baked, not fried: These donuts are soft and cake-like, with a crisp cinnamon-sugar finish — without the added oil or mess.
• Perfect for sharing: Whether you’re hosting a fall brunch, cozying up for movie night, or prepping for Thanksgiving breakfast, this apple cider donuts recipe is always a hit.
• Customizable: You can adjust the spice levels, add mix-ins like chopped apples or nuts, or even glaze them for extra flair.

This apple cider donuts recipe is guaranteed to be your new go-to fall bake.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

You likely have most of these ingredients already, making this apple cider donuts recipe convenient and affordable. Here’s what you need:

For the Donuts:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and softness.
• 1 tsp baking powder – Gives the donuts a gentle rise.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – Contributes richness and tender crumb.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth.
• ½ cup apple cider (room temperature) – The star ingredient for bold apple flavor.
• 1 large egg (room temperature) – Helps bind the ingredients and adds moisture.

For the Topping:

• ½ cup light brown sugar – Brings caramel-like sweetness.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Helps form the classic cinnamon sugar crunch.
• 1 tsp cinnamon – A must-have for fall flavor.
• ¼ tsp nutmeg – Adds warmth and spice.
• ¼ tsp ground ginger – Enhances complexity.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – Helps the sugar coating stick to each donut.

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How to Make This Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 6- or 12-cavity donut pan with non-stick spray or melted butter.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Whisk in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the apple cider and the egg, whisking until fully incorporated.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Whisk well to evenly distribute the leavening agent.

Step 4: Combine the Mixtures

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix just until no streaks of flour remain — the batter should be thick but smooth.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut cavities, filling each one about halfway. Don’t overfill, as the batter will rise.

Step 6: Bake

Bake the donuts for 10–12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the tops spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 7: Prepare the Topping

While the donuts bake, melt the butter for the topping. In a separate shallow bowl, stir together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.

Step 8: Coat the Donuts

Let the donuts cool for 2–3 minutes in the pan, then transfer them to a wire rack. While still slightly warm, dip each donut in melted butter, then generously coat in the sugar-spice mixture.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Serve warm for the best flavor and texture — though they’re just as delicious at room temperature.

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Baking Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Donuts

• Room temperature ingredients mix more smoothly and help the donuts bake evenly.
• Don’t overmix the batter or your donuts could turn out dense. Mix just until combined.
• Use a zip-top bag with the tip cut off to pipe the batter into the pan cleanly.
• For stronger flavor, reduce the apple cider by simmering 1 cup until it’s down to ½ cup, then let it cool before using.

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How to Store and Reheat Apple Cider Donuts

These apple cider donuts are best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerator: Keep for up to 5 days, though the coating may soften slightly.
• Freezer: Freeze uncoated donuts in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before adding topping.

To reheat: Warm in the microwave for 10–15 seconds or in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes.

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Delicious Ways to Serve This Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

These donuts shine on their own, but you can elevate the experience even further by serving them with:

• A hot mug of spiced apple cider or chai tea
• Pumpkin spice lattes or fresh-brewed coffee
• A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fall dessert twist
• Drizzled caramel sauce or a maple glaze for extra indulgence

Perfect for brunch tables, harvest parties, or cozy evenings by the fire.

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Variations and Add-Ins

This apple cider donuts recipe is flexible enough to customize. Try these ideas:

• Add chopped apples or finely diced pears to the batter for texture.
• Stir in mini chocolate chips or crushed walnuts for a twist.
• Top with a simple powdered sugar glaze or a maple cinnamon drizzle.
• Swap out the vanilla for almond extract for a new flavor profile.

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Apple Cider Donuts Recipe FAQs

Can I make this apple cider donuts recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

Can I make this recipe without a donut pan?
You can bake the batter in a mini muffin tin to make “donut holes” — just reduce the bake time by a few minutes.

Can I double this apple cider donuts recipe?
Absolutely. This recipe scales well if you want to make more for gatherings or to freeze for later.

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More Cozy Fall Recipes to Try

Love this apple cider donuts recipe? Here are more fall flavors to explore:

• Buttermilk Peach Cobbler – A late summer favorite perfect for autumn transitions
• Baked Pears – Warm, spiced, and naturally sweet
• Morir Soñando – A refreshing Dominican orange-cream drink
• White Chocolate Coconut Pudding Pie – A no-bake treat with creamy indulgence
• 4th of July Cake – Great for fall parties with a patriotic twist

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Whether you’re cozying up with a book or baking for loved ones, this apple cider donuts recipe will bring that warm, autumnal joy into your kitchen. With its soft texture, bold apple flavor, and sweet cinnamon coating, it’s everything a fall donut should be — and more.

Make a batch today and taste the season in every bite.