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Apple Cider Donuts are a cozy treat that perfectly embodies the warmth of fall. These delightful pastries are soft, sweet, and spiced to perfection—bringing the flavors of freshly pressed apple cider right to your kitchen. Knowing that you can create something so comforting and delicious at home is a joyful feeling. There’s a magic in the aroma that fills the air as they bake, hinting at the sweet, spiced goodness that awaits.

I first discovered this beloved treat during a family apple-picking trip when we stumbled upon a quaint little farm stand. The crisp autumn air combined with the sweet scent of apple cider donuts was intoxicating. Now, every fall feels incomplete without cooking up a batch of these sweet, cinnamon-coated delights to share with friends and family. With a simple list of ingredients and a straightforward process, you’re just moments away from indulging in a homemade treat that outshines anything you might find in stores. I wholeheartedly invite you to try this recipe and create your own joyful memories!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip up a dozen donuts in about 30 minutes plus baking time—perfect for any skill level!
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of spices with rich apple cider makes each bite a warm hug.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Your family and friends will be stopping by just for a glimpse of these gorgeous treats!
Flexible Serving: Enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even for dessert at your next gathering.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 1/2 cups apple cider: Reduces to concentrate the flavor; substitute with spiced apple cider if desired.
2 cups all-purpose flour: The base for our donuts; whole wheat flour can be used for a heartier texture.
1 tsp baking powder: Helps the donuts rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
1/2 tsp baking soda: Reacts with the acids to help the donuts puff up.
1/4 tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Provides that warm, comforting spice; use freshly grated for vibrant flavor.
1/2 tsp ground ginger: Adds a subtle warmth; if you’re a ginger lover, feel free to increase this amount.
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Offers nutty depth; freshly grated nutmeg elevates the flavor.
3/4 cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a caramel-like taste; dark brown sugar deepens the flavor.
1/4 cup white granulated sugar: For added sweetness; you can use coconut sugar if preferred.
1 large egg, room temperature: Binds the ingredients; ensure it’s at room temperature for smoother mixing.
1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Enhances overall flavor; opt for pure over imitation for superior taste.
1/4 cup oil, canola or vegetable: Keeps the donuts moist; melted coconut oil is a great substitute.
1/3 cup milk: Adds creaminess; for a dairy-free option, almond or oat milk works well.
2 tbsp apple sauce, unsweetened: Replaces some fat; can be omitted for a richer donut.
6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Creates a rich texture; use vegan butter for a plant-based version.
2 tbsp apple cider: For the cinnamon sugar coating; this helps the sugar stick beautifully.
1 1/3 cup white granulated sugar: Essential for the coating that gives that sweet crunch.
1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon: Perfect for rolling; adjust to taste if you prefer more or less spice.
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Complements the cinnamon; it adds an additional layer of warmth.

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts

Reduce the Apple Cider: In a large saucepan, combine 1 1/2 cups apple cider over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it simmers and reduces down to 1/2 cup—this typically takes about 10-15 minutes. Once reduced, let it cool completely before using.
Prepare Your Oven & Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray two donut pans (each holds 6 donuts) generously with baking spray and set aside.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg. Set this mixture aside for later.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup white granulated sugar, 1 large egg (room temperature), 1 tsp pure vanilla extract, 1/4 cup oil, 1/3 cup milk, 2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce, and 1/2 cup of your cooled reduced apple cider.
Incorporate Dry Mixture: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, whisking until everything is combined and smooth. Pour the batter into a piping bag or a ziplock bag, snip the corner, and fill each donut cavity about 2/3 full.
Bake the Donuts: Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As a tip, if the holes get covered while baking, use a piping tip to recreate them right out of the oven.
Cool the Donuts: Let the donuts sit in the hot pan for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. I find using a spoon helps gently pop them out without breaking.
Coat with Butter & Cinnamon Sugar: Once cooled, mix 6 tbsp melted unsalted butter with 2 tbsp apple cider in a bowl large enough for dunking the donuts. In a separate bowl, combine 1 1/3 cups white sugar, 1 1/2 tbsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg.
Finish with Sugar: Dunk each donut in the butter mixture, allowing the excess to drip off, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar until they’re heavily coated. Let the donuts sit for 10 minutes to allow the cinnamon sugar to soak in, and feel free to coat them again for extra sweetness!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover donuts at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes; they’ll be deliciously warm, though the texture may soften slightly.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

To avoid dense donuts, be sure not to overmix your batter—mix just until combined.
Bring cold ingredients like eggs and milk to room temperature before mixing for a smoother batter.
If your donuts tend to stick to the pan, consider using parchment paper or applying a thicker layer of baking spray.
For an extra layer of flavor, try adding chopped apples or nuts to the batter.
These donuts can be made ahead of time and frozen; just reheat them and coat them with sugar before serving.

Your kitchen is about to become the most popular place this fall with these wonderful Apple Cider Donuts! Every bite is packed with flavor, and once you share these with loved ones, you’ll be met with smiles all around. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices or even a glaze if you’re feeling adventurous. These donuts hold a special place in my heart, and I hope they bring as much joy to your kitchen as they do to mine!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make apple cider donuts gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to replace regular all-purpose flour, and you should achieve great results without any issues.

What’s the best way to store the donuts?

For the best texture, store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

Can I substitute the apple cider with something else?

If you don’t have apple cider on hand, apple juice can work well. However, the flavor may not be as rich, so consider adding a bit more cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the spice profile.

How can I make these donuts vegan?

To make them vegan, substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) and use plant-based milk and oil. Replace melted butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.

Apple Cider Donuts