Why Baked Apple Cider Donuts Are a Must-Make

There’s something magical about apple cider donuts, right? They’re the perfect combination of fall flavors, and who doesn’t love a warm, soft donut? Whether you’re deep into the coziness of sweater weather or just in need of a sweet treat, these Baked Apple Cider Donuts hit the spot. Plus, baking means you skip the frying and can indulge without the guilt (or oil splatters). 😏

Why Make This Recipe

So, why should you dive into making these donuts? Well, for starters, they’re super simple to whip up and require ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. They bring all the joys of fall into one delightful bite! Imagine biting into a soft, flavorful donut with the cozy warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider. Plus, they’re perfect for breakfast, dessert, or that random snack attack in the afternoon!

Unique flavor: Apple cider’s sweetness is pure fall vibes.
Healthy alternative: Baking instead of frying means fewer calories (yay!).
Great for sharing: Who doesn’t love bringing fresh donuts to a gathering? 🍩

How to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Making these donuts is a breeze! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious treat in no time.

Make the Cider Reduction: Start by adding apple cider to a saucepan. Bring it to a boil and then simmer until it reduces to about 1/3 cup (80 ml). It should turn into a dark amber syrup. Let it cool.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease and flour your donut pan to ensure they pop out easily later.
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cooled apple cider reduction, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, melted butter, buttermilk, and vanilla.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
Combine Everything: Add the dry mix to the wet mix. Give it a good whisk until it’s a thick, slightly foamy batter.
Pipe and Bake: Scoop the batter into a piping bag and fill the donut pan only halfway. Bake them for about 10 minutes or until they’re golden brown. Let them rest in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Sugar Coating: Mix up some sugar and cinnamon. Dip the warm donuts in melted butter, then into the sugar mix until they’re fully coated. Place them on a cooling rack to dry.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups (360 ml) apple cider
1/3 cup (67 g) granulated sugar
1/3 cup (67 g) light brown sugar, packed
1 large egg, room temperature
3 tbsp (45 ml) melted salted butter
1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk or sour milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp kosher salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp allspice
1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar (for coating)
1 tsp cinnamon (for coating)
1/2 cup (120 ml) melted salted butter (for coating)

Directions

Make the apple cider reduction: Boil the apple cider, then simmer until it reduces to about 1/3 cup (80 ml) and thickens. Cool it down before using.
Preheat oven: Get it to 350°F (177°C) and grease that donut pan!
Mix wet ingredients: Whisk together apple cider reduction, both sugars, egg, melted butter, buttermilk, and vanilla until it’s combined.
Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
Combine mixtures: Add dry to wet and mix until thick and somewhat foamy.
Pipe batter: Use a piping bag to fill donut pan halfway. Bake for 10 minutes until golden. Let cool for 5-10 minutes in the pan.
Coat with sugar: Whisk sugar and cinnamon together. Dip the donut in melted butter, then in the cinnamon sugar.
Let them dry: Put coated donuts on a cooling rack. Repeat until all are sugar-coated.
Enjoy!: These donuts are best enjoyed at room temperature, and trust me, they won’t last long!

How to Serve Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Serving these donuts is as easy as pie—wait, donuts! You can simply lay them out on a pretty plate and watch them disappear. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or some spiced apple cider for that extra cozy vibe. They’re also great for brunch with friends or just a delightful afternoon snack. 🍏🥤

How to Store Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Got leftovers? (We’re impressed!) Store these donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for about 5 to 7 days. If you want to keep them longer, pop them in the fridge or freeze them! Just make sure to let them cool completely before storing.

Tips to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Don’t rush the cider reduction: It’ll make a world of difference in flavor!
Keep an eye on your donuts while baking: Every oven is a little different, so check them a minute or two earlier than suggested.
Use a piping bag for easy filling: No mess, no fuss. Just cut a small hole at the bottom and squeeze that batter in!

Variations

Feeling adventurous? Try adding chopped nuts or even a drizzle of caramel sauce on top. You could also experiment with different spices—a hint of ginger could bring a nice kick! The world of apple cider donuts is your oyster, or should we say, your apple? 😄

FAQs

1. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can substitute with milk and add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to create a buttermilk effect. Just give it a quick stir before using!

2. How do I keep my donuts from sticking?
Be sure to grease and flour your donut pan really well before filling; it makes all the difference!

3. Can I make these donuts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake them in advance and store them. Just warm them up in the microwave or oven before serving for the best taste!

Now, get your apron on and get ready to make some delicious memories with these Baked Apple Cider Donuts! 🍏✨