Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Baked Apple Cider Donuts are a delightful treat that combines the essence of fall with a simple baking process. I remember the first time I made these donuts; the aroma of spiced apple cider wafting through my kitchen was irresistible. With a tender crumb and the sweet, warm flavor of cinnamon and nutmeg, these donuts are a nostalgic hug in every bite. They are perfect for weekend brunch, a cozy afternoon snack, or whenever you crave something sweet yet simple. Let’s dive into why these donuts are destined to become your new favorite recipe!

Why You Should Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts

So why should you whip up a batch of these Baked Apple Cider Donuts? For starters, they are incredibly easy to make, and you probably have most of the ingredients already in your kitchen pantry. This recipe is budget-friendly, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy get-together with friends, or just an ordinary weekday that needs a sprinkle of joy.

Not to mention, kids absolutely love them—no more battling over breakfast when these donuts are on the table!

“I made these last weekend for brunch, and they were a hit! Even the picky eaters in my family couldn’t resist going back for seconds!”

Step-by-Step Overview of Making Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Making these donuts is a straightforward and delightful process. You’ll start by boiling the apple cider to reduce it, bringing out its sweet, intense flavor. While that’s cooling, you’ll mix your dry ingredients and combine them with a wet mixture featuring eggs and melted butter. Everything comes together in just a few simple steps before baking them to perfection. I promise, it’ll be hard to resist the smell wafting through your kitchen!

What You’ll Need

Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need to create your delicious Baked Apple Cider Donuts:

• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Feel free to swap out the granulated sugar for coconut sugar if you prefer a healthier alternative or use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version!

Directions to Follow

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease your donut pan.
2. In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil. Let it reduce until you have about 1/2 cup of cider. Once done, set it aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, mix the reduced apple cider, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Remember, don’t overmix—this keeps your donuts tender!
6. Fill each cavity of the donut pan about 3/4 full with the batter.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them either warm or at room temperature!

Best Ways to Enjoy Baked Apple Cider Donuts

These donuts are delightful on their own, but there are plenty of creative ways to enjoy them. Consider dusting them with a cinnamon-sugar mixture right after they come out of the oven for an extra sweet touch. Pair your homemade donuts with a warm cup of spiced apple cider or rich coffee for a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. Alternatively, serve them alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert twist!

How to Store Baked Apple Cider Donuts

To keep your Baked Apple Cider Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last for about 2-3 days. If you want to keep them for longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. To reheat and enjoy them warm, simply pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, and they will taste as good as fresh!

Helpful Cooking Tips

For the fluffiest donuts, make sure not to overmix the batter; stirring just until combined is key. If you’re tight on time, skip the cider reduction step by using store-bought apple cider concentrate, which also adds rich flavor. Lastly, experimenting with different spices, like cloves or allspice, can give your donuts a unique twist!

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun variations to try! For a chocolate twist, add cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for chocolate apple cider donuts. You could also experiment with different types of toppings; consider drizzling a sweet glaze over the top or adding chopped nuts for crunch. For a pumpkin spice version, simply swap in pumpkin puree for half of the butter!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the preparation time for these donuts?
The total prep time is about 15 minutes, with another 10-12 minutes for baking.

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour?
Absolutely! You can use a gluten-free flour blend or whole wheat flour if you prefer a healthier option.

How should I reheat the donuts?
You can reheat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat, or pop them in a toaster oven to restore their outer crispness.

Print