Apple Cider Donuts

These baked Apple Cider Donuts are soft, rich, and bursting with warm autumn spices. Each bite delivers a comforting taste of reduced apple cider and freshly grated apples, creating the ultimate fall treat. Coated in a luscious apple glaze, they’re perfect for cozy mornings, brunch gatherings, or as a sweet afternoon snack. Unlike fried donuts, these are baked to perfection—making them lighter yet equally satisfying. Whether you enjoy them with a hot cup of coffee or a mug of warm cider, these donuts will quickly become your seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 2 cups apple cider (reduced to ½ cup)
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon (plus more for garnish)
• ½ teaspoon clove
• 1 teaspoon allspice
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon cardamom
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• ½ cup whole milk, room temperature
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup shredded apple (peeled and drained of excess juice)

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar
• ½ packet apple cider drink mix
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 6 tablespoons milk

Instructions

1. Reduce the Apple Cider:
   • In a small saucepan, bring 2 cups of apple cider to a boil.
   • Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30–50 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s reduced to ½ cup. Let it cool.
2. Prepare the Apples:
   • Peel and shred one large apple using a cheese grater.
   • Squeeze out excess juice to prevent the batter from being too wet.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a donut pan with nonstick spray.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, clove, allspice, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt.
5. Mix Wet Ingredients:
   • In another bowl, combine melted butter, egg, brown sugar, milk, vanilla, and shredded apple.
6. Combine Ingredients:
   • Add the wet mixture and reduced apple cider into the dry mixture.
   • Whisk until smooth and fully combined.
7. Fill the Donut Pan:
   • Transfer the batter into a piping bag (or spoon it carefully) and fill each cavity about halfway.
8. Bake:
   • Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the tops bounce back when gently pressed.
   • Cool in the pan for 2–3 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
9. Make the Glaze:
   • Mix powdered sugar, apple cider drink mix, vanilla, and milk until smooth.
10. Glaze the Donuts:
    • Dip the cooled donuts into the glaze, letting the excess drip off.
    • Optionally, dust with extra cinnamon for a spiced finish.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips:

1. Serve these Apple Cider Donuts warm for the best flavor and texture.
2. Pair them with hot apple cider, coffee, or a chai latte for the perfect fall treat.
3. For a special brunch, arrange them on a platter and drizzle extra glaze for presentation.
4. Sprinkle a light dusting of cinnamon sugar before serving for added sweetness.
5. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Storage Tips:

1. Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
2. Refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness.
3. Reheat donuts in the microwave for 10–15 seconds before serving.
4. Freeze unglazed donuts for up to 2 months—thaw at room temperature before glazing.
5. Avoid storing glazed donuts stacked; place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Variations

1. Cinnamon Sugar Coated Donuts – Skip the glaze and toss warm donuts in a cinnamon-sugar mix for a classic bakery touch.
2. Maple Glazed Donuts – Replace the apple glaze with a rich maple syrup glaze for a cozy breakfast twist.
3. Caramel Drizzle Donuts – Add a caramel drizzle over the glaze for extra sweetness.
4. Apple Pie Donuts – Mix small apple chunks into the batter and top with pie crust crumbs.
5. Pumpkin Spice Donuts – Add ¼ cup pumpkin puree and reduce the shredded apple slightly for a fall flavor combo.
6. Brown Butter Glaze Donuts – Use browned butter in the glaze for a nutty, rich flavor.
7. Cider Sugar Donuts – Dip baked donuts in reduced cider and roll them in cinnamon sugar for an old-fashioned taste.
8. Cranberry Apple Donuts – Fold in dried cranberries for a tart and festive variation.
9. Pecan Crunch Donuts – Sprinkle crushed pecans on top of the glaze for a crunchy texture.
10. Chocolate Dipped Donuts – Dip half the donut in melted chocolate for a decadent finish.
11. Cream Cheese Frosted Donuts – Top with a thick layer of cream cheese frosting instead of glaze.
12. Spiced Rum Donuts – Add a teaspoon of spiced rum to the glaze for an adult-friendly version.
13. Gluten-Free Donuts – Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
14. Mini Donuts – Make smaller, bite-sized donuts for parties or brunch buffets.
15. Apple Cider Donut Holes – Use a mini muffin pan to create donut holes coated in cinnamon sugar.

FAQs

1. Can I fry these donuts instead of baking them?
   No, this recipe is designed for baking. Frying would change the texture and moisture content.
2. Can I use store-bought apple cider instead of reducing it?
   Yes, but reducing it enhances the flavor and makes the donuts more aromatic.
3. What kind of apple works best for this recipe?
   Use firm and tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best flavor balance.
4. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
   It’s best to bake immediately after mixing to ensure the leavening agents work properly.
5. Can I substitute the milk with a dairy-free option?
   Yes, almond or oat milk works perfectly as a substitute.
6. Why do my donuts turn out dense?
   Overmixing the batter can make donuts dense—mix just until combined.
7. Can I skip the glaze?
   Absolutely! Roll the donuts in cinnamon sugar instead for a simpler version.
8. Do I need a donut pan?
   A donut pan works best, but you can use a mini muffin pan to make donut holes.
9. Can I use apple juice instead of cider?
   Apple cider has a stronger, more spiced flavor—apple juice will be milder but still works.
10. How do I know when the donuts are done baking?
    The tops should bounce back when lightly pressed and edges should be lightly golden.

These Apple Cider Donuts capture the essence of fall in every bite—warm spices, sweet apples, and a delicate apple glaze that ties it all together. They’re simple to bake, deliciously fragrant, and ideal for sharing during the cooler months. Serve them fresh for breakfast, dessert, or any festive occasion. One batch will fill your home with the irresistible scent of autumn and have everyone coming back for seconds.

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