Why Make This Recipe
Baked apple cider donuts are a delightful treat that blends the cozy flavors of fall with a simple and fun baking process. These donuts are soft, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying with a hot cup of cider yourself. With apple cider as the star ingredient, these donuts carry the taste of sweet apples and spices. They’re healthier than their fried counterparts and can be made easily at home.
How to Make Easy Baked Apple Cider Donuts
Making your own baked apple cider donuts is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps for a delicious result!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Apple Cider (Reduce to intensify flavor or substitute with apple juice)
- 240 g All-Purpose Flour (Forms the base structure)
- 1 tsp Baking Powder (Leavening agent)
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt (Enhances flavor)
- 1/2 tsp Ground Nutmeg (Freshly grated enhances the taste)
- 1/4 tsp Ground Ginger (Can be omitted)
- 3 1/2 tsp Ground Cinnamon (Divided; freshly ground is best)
- 3/4 cup Vegetable Oil (Melted coconut oil is an alternative)
- 105 g Dark Brown Sugar (Packed; light brown sugar can be used)
- 200 g Granulated Sugar (Divided; use granulated cane sugar)
- 1 Large Egg (A flax egg can substitute)
- 6 Tbsp Unsalted Butter (Melted; use dairy-free alternative for vegan)
- Cooking Spray (Prevents sticking)
- Granulated Sugar (From earlier for coating)
- Ground Cinnamon (Mix with granulated sugar for coating)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a donut pan with cooking spray.
- In a small saucepan, reduce the apple cider over medium heat until it measures about 1/2 cup. This step concentrates the flavor.
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, ginger, and 2 teaspoons of the ground cinnamon.
- In another bowl, whisk together the reduced apple cider, vegetable oil, dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fill each donut mold about 2/3 full with the batter.
- Bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the donuts cool for a few minutes before removing them from the pan.
How to Serve Easy Baked Apple Cider Donuts
These donuts are best enjoyed warm. You can serve them plain or roll them in a mixture of granulated sugar and remaining cinnamon for an extra sweet touch. Pair them with hot cider or coffee for a perfect snack or breakfast.
How to Store Easy Baked Apple Cider Donuts
To keep your apple cider donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each donut in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They will last for about three months in the freezer.
Tips to Make Easy Baked Apple Cider Donuts
- For a stronger apple flavor, reduce the apple cider until it’s thick.
- Experiment with different spices, such as cloves or allspice, for a unique twist.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter; it should be lumpy for the best texture.
Variation
Try adding chopped apples or walnuts to the batter for added texture and flavor. You can also drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled donuts for extra sweetness.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.
2. What if I don’t have a donut pan?
You can use a muffin tin as an alternative. Just fill the molds about halfway.
3. Can I make these donuts vegan?
Yes! Substitute the egg with a flax egg and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
