Apple Cider Donuts

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Freshly baked apple cider donuts sprinkled with cinnamon sugar

Apple cider donuts are the warm embrace of autumn tucked into a delightful treat. With every bite, you’ll experience the rich flavors of spiced apple cider, perfectly sweetened and baked into fluffy donuts. These round goodies are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them an ideal snack for chilly days or a cozy breakfast treat alongside your favorite cup of coffee or tea. Not to mention, the easy recipe lets you whip them up at home, filling your kitchen with the warm scent of cinnamon and apples.

What Goes into This Delicious Apple Cider Donut Recipe

To make these tasty treats, gather the following ingredients:

  • 1 cup apple cider (240 ml)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (190 g)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (2.6 g)
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (0.5 g)
  • 1/8 tsp ground cloves (0.3 g)
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder (6 g)
  • 1/4 tsp salt (1.5 g)
  • 1/4 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt (60 g)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar substitute (100 g)
  • 1 large egg, at room temperature
  • 1 Tbsp Land O’Lakes light butter made with canola oil, melted (14 g) or 2 Tbsp unsweetened applesauce (30 g)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (5 ml)
  • I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter spray, for coating
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar sweetener (50 g) or 1/4 cup regular white granulated sugar (50 g)
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon (2.6 g) for topping

Directions for Making Apple Cider Donuts

Follow these simple steps to create your homemade apple cider donuts:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
  2. In a large saucepan, cook the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to about 1/2 cup. This should take around 10–15 minutes. Once reduced, let it cool for another 10–15 minutes.
  3. While the cider cools, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
  4. In another bowl, mix the cooled cider with the Greek yogurt, egg, brown sugar substitute, melted butter (or applesauce), and vanilla extract until well combined.
  5. Carefully combine the wet and dry ingredients. Be sure not to overmix—the batter should be just blended.
  6. Spray your donut pans with nonstick spray and fill each cavity with the batter. Don’t overfill; they’ll rise while baking!
  7. Bake the donuts for 10–13 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  8. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, remove them and spray with the butter spray.
  9. In a separate bowl, mix together the granulated sugar (or sweetener) and ground cinnamon for the topping. Roll each donut gently in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
  10. Store any leftovers in an airtight bag in the fridge for up to 3 days.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donuts

Apple cider donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can also be served in various delightful ways. Pair these donuts with a warm cup of apple cider or hot chocolate for the ultimate cozy experience. For a twist, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for dessert. You can also sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top or drizzle with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of apple cider for added sweetness.

Expert Tips for Making Apple Cider Donuts

  • Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to adjust the sweetness by using more or less of the brown sugar substitute or granulated sugar.
  • Add Mix-ins: Diced apples or walnuts can be folded into the batter for added texture and flavor.
  • Storage Tip: If you want to keep them fresh longer, try freezing the donuts. They will remain good for a few months in an airtight container. Just reheat them in the oven for a couple of minutes when you’re ready to enjoy!

Apple Cider Donuts FAQs

Can I use fresh apples instead of apple cider?
Using fresh apples isn’t recommended because the cider’s concentrated flavor is key to achieving the taste of these donuts. Stick with apple cider for the best results!

How do I know when the donuts are done baking?
The best way to check if your donuts are done is to insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they are ready to take out of the oven.

Can I bake these donuts ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the donuts a day ahead of when you plan to serve them. Just make sure they’re stored in an airtight bag or container in the fridge and warmed up before serving.

These apple cider donuts are your new go-to treat for the fall! They combine the warm spices of autumn with the sweetness of apples, creating a deliciously comforting snack. Give them a try, and you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful donuts with friends and family.