Baked Apple Cider Donuts: Irresistibly Spiced Joy in Every Bite

As a child, nothing excited me more than the crisp, cool days of fall, especially when my grandmother would invite me into her cozy kitchen. The highlight was always her famous baked apple cider donuts, a tradition that filled the house with the warm, inviting aroma of spices and apples. The joy of biting into a freshly baked donut, with its sweet, spiced coating, was unmatched. These delicious treats were more than just food; they were a symbol of love and connection.

The first time I attempted to recreate my grandmother’s baked apple cider donuts, I was overwhelmed with nostalgia. The process brought back vivid memories of laughter and stories shared over these delightful treats. Using simple, wholesome ingredients, I discovered the secret to capturing that same comforting flavor my grandmother achieved with ease. The key lies in reducing the apple cider to concentrate its flavors, a step that transforms ordinary donuts into something spectacular.

These baked apple cider donuts have become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the fall season. They offer a delightful way to embrace the flavors of autumn and share them with loved ones. Each bite is a celebration of the season’s bounty, and I find immense joy in passing down this cherished recipe to friends and family. These donuts are not just a treat; they are a heartfelt connection to my past and an invitation to create new memories.

Now, I’m excited to guide you through the process of making these delightful baked apple cider donuts. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure together, exploring the magic of baking from scratch and discovering the joy of sharing homemade treats with those we love.

Baked Apple Cider Donuts

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• Author: Olivia
• Total Time: 30-31 minutes
• Yield: 12 donuts 1x

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Description

Learn how to make delicious Baked Apple Cider Donuts at home with this easy recipe. Perfect for fall baking and sure to impress your taste buds!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 and 1/2 cups (360ml) apple cider
• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) baking soda
• 3/4 teaspoon (4 ml) baking powder
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) apple pie spice
• 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) salt
• 2 Tablespoons (28g) vegetable oil, melted
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure vanilla extract
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 3/4 teaspoon (4 ml) ground cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon (4 ml) apple pie spice
• 6 Tablespoons (85g) vegetable oil, melted

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Instructions

1. Simmer the apple cider on low heat in a small pot, stirring occasionally, until about 1/2 cup remains. Begin checking at 10-minute intervals until you reach the desired amount, which usually takes around 20 minutes. If there are any spices or solids on the surface, leave them as is. Allow it to cool for 10 minutes.
2. Set your oven to 350°F (177°C) and coat your donut pan with a non-stick spray. Put aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and salt by whisking them together. Keep this mixture aside.
4. Mix together the melted vegetable oil, egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until well-blended. Add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients, including the reduced apple cider, and whisk everything until you achieve a smooth batter. The batter will be somewhat thick.
5. Transfer the batter into the donut molds. For convenience, use a large resealable bag, cut off one corner, and pipe the batter into each donut space, filling them halfway.
6. Place in the oven and bake for 10-11 minutes until the edges and tops are lightly golden. To check, press the top of a donut gently; if it springs back, they are ready. Let them cool for 2 minutes before moving them to a wire rack. Reapply non-stick spray to the pan and bake any remaining batter.
7. Prepare the coating by mixing granulated sugar, cinnamon, and apple pie spice in a medium bowl. When the donuts are cool enough to touch, dip each side into the melted vegetable oil and then coat them generously with the sugar-spice mixture.
8. Donuts taste best when enjoyed immediately. Store leftovers in a tightly covered container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Notes

• Reduce apple cider until only 1/2 cup remains for a more intense flavor in the donuts.
• Use a resealable bag to easily pipe the thick batter into the donut molds for a tidy and efficient process.
• Dip warm donuts in the sugar-spice coating to ensure it adheres well to the surface. Enjoy immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature for best taste and texture.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-11 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 8g
• Protein: 3g

Keywords: apple cider donuts, cinnamon spice donuts, baked apple donuts, homemade donuts, donut recipe

Baked Apple Cider Donuts: The Essentials

Fundamentals

The foundation of these baked apple cider donuts lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. By focusing on quality components, you can achieve a delightful balance of sweetness and spice. Key ingredients include reduced apple cider, which lends a concentrated apple flavor, and a mix of warm spices like cinnamon and apple pie spice that evoke the essence of fall.

Using both brown and granulated sugars ensures the perfect level of sweetness, while the combination of baking soda and baking powder provides the ideal rise for a light, fluffy texture. Vegetable oil keeps the donuts moist, and a hint of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile.

Preparation/Setup

Begin by reducing the apple cider, a crucial step that intensifies its flavor. Simmer the cider on low heat until it reduces to about half a cup. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and prepare your donut pan with a non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the wet ingredients, including the cooled reduced cider, ensuring a smooth batter. This preparation ensures a seamless baking process, resulting in perfectly baked apple cider donuts.

Crafting Perfect Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Technique

The technique for making baked apple cider donuts is straightforward and rewarding. Once you’ve prepared the batter, transfer it into a resealable bag. Snip off a corner and pipe the batter into the donut pan, filling each mold halfway. This method ensures even distribution and consistent donut shapes.

Bake the donuts for 10-11 minutes, keeping an eye on them as the edges turn lightly golden. A gentle press on the top should spring back, indicating they are perfectly baked. The even baking ensures a tender, fluffy interior that pairs beautifully with the spiced sugar coating.

Tips/Tricks

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch more cinnamon to the batter. If you love experimenting with flavors, try incorporating a dash of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist. To ensure the donuts maintain their perfect shape, avoid overfilling the molds, as this can lead to uneven baking.

If you’re looking for even more donut inspiration, check out Baked Pumpkin Donuts or explore the delightful Apple Fritter Waffle Donuts for more creative flavor combinations.

Mastering the Art of Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Perfecting Results

Achieving the perfect baked apple cider donuts involves attention to detail, particularly with the sugar and spice coating. Once the donuts have cooled slightly, dip each side into melted vegetable oil before coating them generously with the spiced sugar mixture. This coating adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall flavor.

For an extra layer of indulgence, consider drizzling a simple glaze over the donuts. Mix powdered sugar with a splash of milk and a hint of vanilla for a sweet finish. This addition complements the spiced coating and adds a touch of elegance to each donut.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If your donuts turn out too dense, be sure to check the freshness of your baking soda and baking powder. Stale leavening agents can affect the rise and texture. Additionally, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a tougher crumb.

For those with dietary restrictions, explore variations such as using a non-dairy milk alternative or experimenting with gluten-free flour blends. These adjustments allow you to enjoy the same delightful flavors while accommodating personal preferences.

Serving and Enjoying Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Serving/Presentation

Present your baked apple cider donuts on a rustic wooden board or a vibrant platter to enhance their appeal. The combination of the golden donuts and the spiced sugar coating creates a visually inviting display that is sure to impress your guests.

Pair these donuts with a warm cup of apple cider or a freshly brewed coffee for a cozy treat. The complementary flavors create a comforting experience, perfect for a fall gathering or a quiet morning indulgence. For more serving ideas, explore our Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples for a delightful accompaniment.

Pairings/Storage

To store leftovers, place the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. This ensures they remain fresh and delicious. If you’re looking to explore more donut recipes, don’t miss our Dunkin Donuts Glazed Donuts Recipe Copycat for another crowd-pleaser.

For those who enjoy savory-sweet combinations, consider pairing these donuts with a recipe from Maple Apple Cider Venison Jerky for a unique twist on flavor profiles. This pairing highlights the versatility of apple cider in both sweet and savory dishes.

Conclusion

Crafting baked apple cider donuts at home captures the essence of fall’s comforting flavors. These donuts offer a delightful combination of sweet, spiced goodness with a tender crumb. Their ease of preparation makes them an accessible treat for bakers of all skill levels.

The key to success lies in the reduction of apple cider, which infuses the batter with concentrated flavor. Coupled with the spiced sugar coating, these donuts deliver a satisfying crunch and warmth in every bite. Whether serving them at a gathering or enjoying a quiet moment at home, these donuts promise to bring joy and connection.

Embrace the traditions of home baking and delight in the smiles these baked apple cider donuts bring to family and friends. Let them be a reminder of the simple pleasures in life and the joy of sharing homemade goodness.

FAQs – Baked Apple Cider Donuts