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Apple Cider Donuts Recipe Easy Homemade Cinnamon Sugar Treat

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These cozy apple cider donuts are baked, not fried, and feature a tender crumb, concentrated apple cider flavor, and a thick, crunchy cinnamon sugar crust. Quick to make and perfect for fall gatherings, brunch, or a comforting treat any time of year.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup apple cider (reduced to 1/2 cup; fresh-pressed if possible)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • For the Cinnamon Sugar Crust:
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing donuts)

Instructions

  1. Pour 1 cup apple cider into a medium saucepan. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 1/2 cup. The cider should be thickened and smell intensely fruity.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your donut pan with butter or nonstick spray.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  4. In a separate bowl, blend melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, milk, vanilla, and the reduced cider. Whisk until smooth.
  5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Scoop or pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. Tap the pan on the counter to level the batter.
  7. Bake in the center of the oven for 13-15 minutes. Donuts are ready when a toothpick comes out clean and the tops spring back lightly.
  8. Let donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  9. In a shallow bowl, mix 1/2 cup sugar and 2 teaspoons cinnamon.
  10. Brush each warm donut with melted butter, then dip and roll in cinnamon sugar until coated.

Notes

Reduce the cider for bold flavor; coat donuts while warm for best cinnamon sugar adhesion. Don’t overmix the batter or overbake. Gluten-free and vegan adaptations work well. Donuts freeze beautifully—store uncoated and add cinnamon sugar after reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider donuts, baked donuts, cinnamon sugar, fall dessert, easy donut recipe, autumn treat, homemade donuts, apple dessert, brunch, comfort food

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