There’s something magical about Apple Cider Doughnuts. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy doughnut, coated in cinnamon sugar, with the cozy scent of apple and spice wafting through the air. spiced apple cider gingersnap cookies It’s like autumn wrapped up in a sweet treat that just begs to be devoured.

These doughnuts remind me of crisp fall days spent at the apple orchard, where laughter fills the air and every bite tastes like childhood joy. Perfect for Sunday brunch or an afternoon snack, these doughnuts promise a delightful explosion of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These scrumptious Apple Cider Doughnuts are easy to make and require minimal ingredients
- The rich, spiced flavor combines perfectly with the sweetness of the cider
- Visually appealing with their cinnamon-sugar coating, they are perfect for sharing or indulging solo
- Ideal for fall gatherings or any occasion that calls for a sweet treat
I still remember the first time I made these doughnuts for my family. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and I basked in the glory of being crowned the “Doughnut Queen” for an entire Sunday afternoon.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Apple Cider: Use fresh apple cider if possible; it adds authentic flavor and sweetness to your doughnuts.
- All-Purpose Flour: A basic staple that creates the perfect base for your soft and fluffy doughnuts.
- Baking Powder: Ensure freshness by checking expiration dates; this helps your doughnuts rise beautifully. For more inspiration, check out this moist pumpkin bread recipe recipe.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings warmth and spice; don’t skimp on this delightful ingredient!
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter while allowing for that irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs provide richness and help bind all ingredients together seamlessly.
- Butter: Melted butter adds moisture and depth of flavor; use unsalted for better control over saltiness.
- Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg elevates the flavor; it’s like a hug from grandma in every bite!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Doughnut Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your doughnut pan well with non-stick spray. This step is crucial; no one wants their beautiful creations to stick!
Mix Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine apple cider, melted butter, eggs, and sugar until smooth. The aroma should be inviting enough to make you do a happy dance in your kitchen.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. This combination not only adds flavor but also gives structure to your delightful doughnuts.
Combine Mixtures Carefully: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined; be careful not to overmix! You want airy doughnuts that’ll make you feel like you’re floating on a cloud.
Pour into Doughnut Pan: Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each cavity of your greased pan about two-thirds full with batter. This way they’ll rise perfectly without overflowing—nobody likes an unruly doughnut!
Bake to Perfection!: Place your filled pan in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and spring back when lightly pressed. The smell will be utterly intoxicating—so good luck resisting!
Cinnamon-Sugar Coating Time!: Allow them to cool slightly before transferring them to a wire rack. While they’re still warm, roll each doughnut in cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated—this is where they transform from great to absolutely irresistible!
Now you’ve created Apple Cider Doughnuts that are not only visually stunning but bursting with flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds! Enjoy with coffee or share them at gatherings—just prepare yourself for all those compliments! homemade blueberry pop tarts.
You Must Know
- Apple cider doughnuts are a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for autumn gatherings
- Their warm, spiced aroma fills the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere
- Enjoy them fresh out of the fryer or dusted with cinnamon sugar for an irresistible treat
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing your dry ingredients separately to ensure even distribution. Then, combine them with wet ingredients to create a smooth batter. Finally, fry the doughnuts in hot oil for perfectly golden results.
Add Your Touch
Customize your apple cider doughnuts by swapping out applesauce for pureed pumpkin or adding chocolate chips for extra sweetness. rich pumpkin cream cheese frosting You can also sprinkle in walnut pieces or drizzles of caramel after frying for added flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about five minutes to restore their fluffy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your oil is at the right temperature (around 375°F) before frying; too low and they’ll absorb oil, too high and they’ll burn
- Don’t skip chilling your dough if the recipe calls for it; it helps shape perfect doughnuts
- Always dust with sugar while warm to help it stick!
I remember the first time I made apple cider doughnuts for a family gathering; my cousin practically inhaled three of them before I could even take a photo! For more inspiration, check out this chewy Oreo cookies recipe.
FAQ
What type of apples should I use for apple cider doughnuts?
Using tart apples like Granny Smith will give your doughnuts a nice balance against the sweetness of the dough. creamy apple and cinnamon hummus These apples provide that perfect tangy flavor that complements cinnamon sugar beautifully.
Can I bake apple cider doughnuts instead of frying?
Absolutely! Just pour the batter into a greased doughnut pan and bake at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes. You’ll miss out on that fried texture but gain a healthier alternative.
How do I know when my oil is ready for frying?
To test if your oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of batter into it; if it sizzles and rises to the surface quickly, you’re good to go! This ensures crispy, golden-brown doughnuts every time.

Apple Cider Doughnuts
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 12 doughnuts 1x
Description
Indulge in the irresistible delight of homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts! These warm, fluffy treats are coated in cinnamon sugar and infused with the comforting flavors of autumn. Perfect for brunch, snacking, or sharing at gatherings, each bite transports you back to cozy fall days spent at the orchard.
Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a doughnut pan.
- In a bowl, mix apple cider, melted butter, sugar, and egg until smooth.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually fold dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined.
- Fill each cavity of the doughnut pan about two-thirds full with batter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and springy to touch.
- Cool slightly before rolling in cinnamon-sugar while warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 doughnut (40g)
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 90mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg