Save This tender apple cider donut recipe transforms ordinary mornings into special occasions with its warm autumn spices and irresistible cinnamon sugar coating. The concentrated apple cider creates a depth of flavor that store-bought donuts simply cannot match.
I first created these donuts during apple picking season last year when my kitchen was overflowing with fresh cider. My family now requests them every weekend from September through November. The house fills with the most intoxicating aroma while they bake.
Ingredients
- All purpose flour: creates the perfect cake donut texture without being too dense or heavy
- Baking powder and baking soda: work together to create the ideal rise and tender crumb
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: provide that classic warm spice profile essential for apple cider donuts
- Apple cider: reduced down concentrates the flavor for pronounced apple taste in every bite
- Buttermilk: adds tanginess and ensures a moist texture that stays fresh longer
- Melted butter: in both batter and coating delivers richness and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere perfectly
- Vanilla extract: enhances all the flavors while adding subtle depth
Instructions
- Reduce the Apple Cider:
- Simmer your apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat for about 10 to 15 minutes until it reduces to exactly half its volume. This concentrates the flavor dramatically and removes excess moisture that would make your donuts soggy. Let it cool completely before using or your eggs might scramble when added.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together your flour, leavening agents, and spices thoroughly. This even distribution ensures consistent flavor and texture throughout each donut. Make sure to break up any clumps of baking powder or soda which could create bitter spots in your finished donuts.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Whisk together your cooled reduced cider, melted butter, oil, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla until completely smooth and uniform. The combination of butter and oil creates the perfect balance of flavor and moisture retention.
- Create the Batter:
- Pour your wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and fold together with a spatula using gentle strokes just until no dry flour remains visible. Overmixing activates gluten and creates tough donuts, so resist the urge to stir vigorously. Some small lumps are actually preferable to overmixing.
- Fill the Donut Pan:
- Transfer your batter to a piping bag or zip top bag with the corner snipped off for neat filling. Fill each cavity about two thirds full to allow room for rising. If you fill too much, the holes will close up during baking.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake at 350°F for 12 to 15 minutes, checking at the earliest time. The donuts should spring back when lightly touched and a toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Overbaking will dry them out quickly.
- Apply the Coating:
- While the donuts are still warm but not hot, brush each completely with melted butter using a pastry brush. Immediately roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat all surfaces. The warm butter helps the sugar adhere perfectly and creates that signature crunchy exterior.
Save The nutmeg in this recipe is my secret weapon. Many recipes skimp on it, but that subtle nutmeg flavor is what gives these donuts their authentic orchard stand taste. My grandmother always said a proper apple cider donut should have enough nutmeg to notice but not enough to overwhelm. Finding that balance transforms these from good to exceptional.
Make Ahead Tips
These donuts can be prepared up to a day in advance, though they truly shine when freshly made. If making ahead, store the plain baked donuts in an airtight container at room temperature, then warm them slightly in the microwave for 10 seconds before applying the butter and cinnamon sugar coating just before serving. This keeps the exterior crisp rather than becoming soggy overnight.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover donuts in a single layer in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Avoid refrigerating as this accelerates staling. For longer storage, freeze uncoated donuts for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, then warm slightly before applying fresh butter and cinnamon sugar coating.
Perfect Pairings
These apple cider donuts create an unforgettable autumn experience when served alongside hot beverages. Try them with a steaming mug of apple cider, spiced chai tea, or a rich coffee with hints of caramel. For an indulgent dessert presentation, serve warm donuts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Seasonal Adaptations
Fall harvest use fresh pressed apple cider from your local orchard for the most authentic flavor
Winter holidays add a pinch of cloves and ginger to the spice mix for a more festive profile
Spring celebration substitute half the apple cider with fresh orange juice for a brighter flavor
Save Enjoy these warm, spiced donuts for a truly comforting treat.