Apple Cider Doughnuts

Warm, cozy, and bursting with autumn flavor—these baked apple cider doughnuts are the perfect homemade treat for crisp mornings or cozy evenings.
Why You’ll Love These Doughnuts
With the comforting aroma of apple cider and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, these doughnuts capture everything we love about fall. And since they’re baked (not fried!), they’re a bit lighter while still delivering that crave-worthy flavor.
Ingredients (Makes 12–14 doughnuts)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup apple cider
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For Coating:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- (Optional: melted butter for brushing before coating)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a doughnut pan or use non-stick spray.
2️⃣ Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
3️⃣ Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the apple cider, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4️⃣ Make the Batter
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—this ensures tender doughnuts.
5️⃣ Fill the Pan
Spoon or pipe the batter into each doughnut cavity, filling them about ¾ full.
6️⃣ Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into one comes out clean. The tops should spring back lightly when touched.
7️⃣ Prepare the Coating
While the doughnuts are baking, mix the ¼ cup sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
8️⃣ Cool & Coat
Let the doughnuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. While still warm, brush lightly with melted butter (optional but delicious), then toss in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly.
Tips for the Best Doughnuts
- Reduce the cider: For an extra-rich apple flavor, simmer the cider on the stove until reduced by half before adding it to the recipe.
- Don’t overbake: Keep a close eye near the 12-minute mark. Overbaking can lead to dry doughnuts.
- No doughnut pan? You can bake these in a muffin tin—just reduce the baking time slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These doughnuts pair perfectly with a cup of hot apple cider, chai, or coffee. Serve them warm for that fresh-from-the-bakery feel!
Enjoy the cozy magic of fall in every bite with these Apple Cider Doughnuts. Let me know if you’d like a printable recipe card or a version with glaze or icing next!