Embrace fall with these baked apple cider donuts, a nod to the season’s best flavors. By reducing apple cider, you get an intensified taste that permeates each bite, harmonized with warm cinnamon and apple pie spices. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, these donuts are a delightful treat.
- Cuisine: American
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-11 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 50 minutes
- Servings: 12 donuts
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Uses reduced apple cider for a concentrated apple flavor.
- Baked, not fried, for a healthier donut experience.
- Quick to make with minimal preparation time.
- Perfectly spiced to complement crisp autumn days.
Ingredients
- 1 and 1/2 cups (360ml) apple cider: Reduced to intensify apple flavor. No substitute needed.
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled): Forms the donut’s structure. White whole wheat flour can be used for a healthier option.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder: Works with baking soda for the right lift.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm spice. Can use additional apple pie spice if out of cinnamon.
- 1 teaspoon apple pie spice: Enhances the autumnal flavor. Substitute with equal parts cinnamon and nutmeg if unavailable.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- 2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted: Provides richness. Salted butter can be used, reduce additional salt.
- 1 large egg, at room temperature: Binds ingredients and contributes to the donut’s moisture.
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar: Adds a molasses undertone enhancing the donut’s depth.
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter uniformly.
- 1/2 cup (120ml) milk, at room temperature: Moistens the batter. Dairy-free alternatives like almond milk work well too.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds background sweetness.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: For coating, ensures a sweet, crisp finish.
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: For coating, adds warming spice to finish.
- 3/4 teaspoon apple pie spice: For coating, brings a cozy, autumnal finish.
- 6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted: Helps the sugar coating adhere while adding flavor.
How to Make It
Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
Simmer 1 and 1/2 cups apple cider over low heat in a small saucepan, stirring occasionally until reduced to 1/2 cup. Monitor starting at 10 minutes; total time is typically 20 minutes. This reduction concentrates the apple flavor essential for the donuts’ taste profile. If solids appear, leave them, they’re flavor-packed. Set aside and let it cool for 10 minutes before using.
Step 2: Prepare the Donuts
Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and coat a donut pan with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and salt, ensuring an even distribution of rising agents.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
Mix the melted butter, egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until uniform. The melted butter provides richness, while sugars add sweetness. Pour the wet ingredients into the prepared dry mixture, adding the cooled apple cider reduction. Whisk until the batter is smooth; it should be slightly thick.
Step 4: Fill the Donut Pan
Transfer the batter into a large zipped-top bag for ease. Snip one corner and pipe the batter into each donut cavity, filling halfway to allow room for rising. This method ensures a clean fill and uniform size.
Step 5: Bake and Cool
Bake for 10-11 minutes until edges and tops are lightly browned. Conduct the bounce test: lightly press the donut top; if it springs back, they’re ready. Cool them for 2 minutes, then move to a wire rack. Re-grease the pan for any remaining batter.
Step 6: Coat the Donuts
Mix the additional granulated sugar, cinnamon, and apple pie spice. Dunk each donut in melted butter, followed by rolling in the sugar mixture for a sweet and spiced finish. This creates a perfect donut balance of crunch and spice.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use apple cider vinegar instead of apple cider?
No, apple cider vinegar is acidic and not suitable for this recipe. The sweetness and flavor of apple cider are essential for the donut’s taste.
How do I store leftover donuts?
Store them covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain freshness. Reheat in the microwave for 10 seconds to soften if desired.
Can these donuts be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
