Best Ever Apple Cider Donuts Recipe – Easy, Irresistible Fall Treat!

The Ultimate Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

A deliciously easy donut recipe perfect for cozy fall mornings, bursting with the sweet and spicy goodness of fresh apple cider and warm cinnamon sugar.

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Why Apple Cider Donuts Will Make You Fall in Love

These apple cider donuts are soft, cakey, and bursting with real apple flavor, thanks to a reduction of fresh cider and a generous coating of cinnamon sugar.

They’re baked, not fried, but still have that classic donut shop texture you know and love.

Perfect for cozy mornings, fall gatherings, or just when you want your kitchen to smell like an orchard.

Pair with hot coffee, a sweater, and crisp air — or just fake it ‘til October.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Apple Cider Donuts

• Fresh Apple Cider: Brings natural sweetness and a burst of seasonal flavor. Opt for locally sourced, unpasteurized cider if available—trust me, you’ll taste the difference!
• Ground Cinnamon: This powerhouse spice gives warmth and depth, pairing beautifully with apple cider.
• Buttermilk: Adds a subtle tang, creating a fluffy, moist texture that makes each bite heavenly.

Easy Ingredient Substitutions to Fit Your Needs

• Dairy-free swap: Replace buttermilk with almond or oat milk mixed with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.
• Gluten-free swap: Use your favorite gluten-free flour blend in a 1:1 ratio.
• Pantry-friendly variation: No buttermilk? Combine regular milk with lemon juice or vinegar—let sit for 5 minutes and voila!
• Sugar alternatives: Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a healthier twist.
• Spice it Up: No nutmeg? Pumpkin pie spice works beautifully.

Why This Apple Cider Donuts Recipe Is the Absolute Best

Here’s the scoop, donut lovers:

• Freshness Factor: Real apple cider makes these donuts naturally sweet and flavorful.
• Easy Peasy: Quick prep and simple ingredients mean less fuss, more flavor.
• Baked or Fried: Versatile enough to suit your cooking style (but trust me, baking these is so much simpler and healthier).
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Great family baking activity; kids love mixing, dipping, and dusting!
• Perfectly Spiced: Carefully balanced flavors, making them ideal for everyone.

What Flour Works Best With An Apple Cider Donut Recipe?

For this Apple Cider Donut Recipe, using all-purpose flour is ideal. All-purpose flour balances protein content and texture, making it well-suited for various baked goods, including donuts.

It will give your donuts the proper structure and tenderness, resulting in a delicious and satisfying texture.

Whole wheat flour or pastry flour can also be used, but remember that they might yield slightly different results in terms of texture and taste.

Whole wheat flour can add a nuttier flavor and denser texture, while pastry flour may create a softer and more delicate crumb.

In most cases, all-purpose flour is the go-to choice for classic apple cider donuts, ensuring a well-rounded and delightful outcome.

While other flours like whole wheat flour, almond flour, or oat flour can be interesting to experiment with, they might alter the texture, flavor, or structure of the Donuts.

For this particular recipe, sticking to all-purpose flour will likely yield the best results and maintain the classic taste and texture you expect from Apple Cider Donuts.

Grab Everything you Need

Before you start making this Apple Cider Donut Recipe, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients and tools on hand:

• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of mixing bowls to combine dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk: A whisk is useful for mixing the wet and dry ingredients together.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key in baking. You’ll need measuring cups for liquids and dry ingredients, as well as measuring spoons for smaller amounts.
• Donut Pans: These specialized pans are used to shape and bake the donuts. They come in various sizes and shapes, but standard-sized donut pans are recommended.
• Piping Bag or Plastic Bag: A piping bag or a large resealable plastic bag with a corner cut off can be used to neatly fill the donut pans with the batter.
• Wire Rack: After baking, a wire rack is essential for cooling the donuts and allowing air to circulate, preventing the bottoms from becoming soggy.
• Baking Spray or Butter: To grease the donut pans and prevent sticking.
• Spatula: A spatula will help you mix the batter and fold in the ingredients evenly.
• Oven Mitts: Essential for handling hot pans when placing them in and taking them out of the oven.
• Cooling Rack: Once the donuts are out of the oven, you’ll need a cooling rack to let them cool properly and set.
• Shallow Bowl: This will be used for the cinnamon sugar coating.
• Timer: For keeping track of baking times.
• Stovetop (Optional): If you’re planning to reduce the apple cider to intensify the flavor, you’ll need a stovetop and a small saucepan.

Having everything prepared and organized before you begin will make the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

What Are the Benefits of Baking with Apple Cider?

Baking with apple cider can benefit your recipes, adding flavor, moisture, and a touch of seasonal goodness. Here are some advantages of using apple cider in your baking:

1. Enhanced Flavor: Apple cider imparts a rich, fruity, and slightly tangy flavor to your baked goods. It adds a depth of taste that complements sweet and savory recipes alike.
2. Moisture Retention: The natural sugars and liquid in apple cider help keep baked goods moist and tender. This is especially useful in recipes where dryness might be a concern, such as cakes, muffins, and quick breads.
3. Natural Sweetness: Apple cider contributes a pleasant sweetness to your baked treats, allowing you to reduce the amount of refined sugar in your recipes while still maintaining a delightful taste.
4. Seasonal Appeal: Baking with apple cider can evoke a sense of seasonality and coziness. The aroma of apple cider-infused treats can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen.
5. Nutrient Boost: Apple cider contains vitamins and minerals from the apples it’s made from, such as vitamin C and potassium. While some nutrients might be lost during the baking process, using apple cider can still add a touch of natural goodness.
6. Unique Texture: The sugars in apple cider can caramelize during baking, adding depth to the color and texture of your baked goods. This can create a beautiful golden hue and a slightly chewy or sticky quality that’s highly desirable.
7. Versatility: Apple cider can be used in a variety of baked goods, from cakes and muffins to donuts and cookies. It pairs well with other fall flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
8. Reduced Fat Content: In some recipes, apple cider can partially replace fat (such as oil or butter), contributing to a lighter texture while still providing moisture and flavor.
9. Homemade Touch: Using apple cider in your baking gives your recipes a homemade and artisanal touch, as if you’re incorporating the essence of freshly pressed apples into your treats.
10. Adaptability: Apple cider can be used in different forms, such as reduced to concentrate its flavor, or as a liquid in its original state. This versatility allows you to experiment and create unique variations of your favorite recipes.

Fun Fact
Overall, baking with apple cider can elevate the taste, texture, and appeal of your creations while infusing them with the delightful essence of apples and fall.

Don’t Have Buttermilk At Home? No Problem

You can quickly substitute for Buttermilk or create an alternative for this Apple Cider Donut Recipe using common household ingredients.

1. Homemade Buttermilk Substitute:
For every 1 cup of buttermilk needed, add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to a measuring cup.
Fill the rest of the measuring cup with milk (dairy or non-dairy) until you reach the 1-cup mark.
Stir the mixture gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before using. The acid will react with the milk, creating a buttermilk-like consistency.

2. Yogurt Substitute:
You can often substitute plain yogurt for buttermilk in a 1:1 ratio. If the yogurt is thick, you can thin it with a little milk until it reaches the desired consistency.

3. Sour Cream Substitute:
Sour cream can also be used as a buttermilk substitute. Use it in a 1:1 ratio, or thin it with a little milk if it’s thick.

4. Milk and Vinegar/Lemon Juice:
You can create a buttermilk-like substitute using milk and an acid if you don’t have yogurt or sour cream.
Mix 1 cup of milk (dairy or non-dairy) with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Stir and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before using.

Choose the substitute that works best for you based on the ingredients you have on hand and any dietary considerations.

The goal is to introduce acidity into the Donut batter, which helps create a tender and flavorful result similar to using buttermilk.

How to Make This Amazing Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

This recipe couldn’t be easier—combine ingredients, mix, bake (or fry), dust with cinnamon sugar, and enjoy!

Let’s dive in and make donut dreams come true.

Apple Cider Donuts

Recipe by Chef Cory G

5.0 from 1 vote

Cuisine: dessertDifficulty: Easy

Servings

12

Donuts

Prep Time

25

minutes

Cooking Time

20

minutes

soft and fluffy apple cider donuts are packed with cozy fall flavors like warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and real apple cider. Made with buttermilk for extra tenderness and coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar crust, every bite is spiced, nostalgic, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Cook Mode

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Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract

• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup apple cider (room temperature)

• 1/4 cup buttermilk (room temperature)

• 1 large egg (room temperature)

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

• Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
  -1/2 cup granulated sugar
  -1 tsp ground cinnamon

Baking Directions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two standard donut pans.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
• Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
• Spoon the batter into a piping bag or a large resealable plastic bag. Cut a corner off the bag to create a makeshift piping tip.
• Pipe the batter evenly into the greased donut pans, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when touched and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Remove the pans from the oven and let the donuts cool in the pans for a few minutes.
• While the donuts are cooling, prepare the cinnamon sugar coating. In a shallow bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
• Gently remove the slightly cooled donuts from the pans. While they are still warm, roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
• Place the coated donuts on a wire rack to cool completely and allow the cinnamon sugar coating to set.
• Once cooled, the apple cider donuts are ready to be enjoyed! They are best eaten the same day they are made.
• Glazed Donut Method: you can mix 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of apple cider to create a glaze. Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze and let them set on a wire rack.
• If you tried this recipe and loved it, I’d appreciate it if you could give it a 5-star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and leave a comment below! It really helps more people find the recipe, and I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!

Notes

• For an extra burst of apple flavor, you can reduce the apple cider by simmering it on the stove until it’s reduced by half before using it in the recipe.
• Make sure to let all the ingredients come to room temperature before mixing for the best results.
• These donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two. If storing for longer, it’s best to freeze them and reheat in the oven before enjoying.

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Serving Suggestions for the Ultimate Enjoyment

• Pair It: Hot coffee or warm mulled cider—perfect companions for fall mornings.
• Serve It: Stack them high on a rustic wooden platter, garnished with cinnamon sticks and apple slices.
• Best Time: Ideal for fall brunches, cozy weekend breakfasts, or autumn gatherings.
• Creative Garnish Idea: Drizzle with warm maple glaze for an extra special touch!

Wrapping It Up With a Delicious Bow

There you have it, friends—my absolute favorite apple cider donuts recipe, guaranteed to delight everyone who tries it.

Be sure to tag me @Dealiciousness on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, or YouTube when you make these delicious donuts! Your support means everything—don’t forget to leave a 5-star review.

Happy baking, and enjoy every sweet, fluffy bite!

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FAQs About Apple Cider Donuts

Can I make these donuts ahead of time?

Yes! Bake a batch, let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Warm slightly before serving to enjoy the best flavor and texture.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

No worries—use a muffin pan instead for delicious apple cider donut muffins. Baking time will increase slightly.

Can I freeze apple cider donuts?

Absolutely! Freeze donuts in an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in the oven before serving.

Can I substitute apple juice for apple cider?

You can, but fresh apple cider will give you the richer, deeper flavor characteristic of these classic donuts. Apple juice is a suitable option in a pinch.