Best Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Delicious Baked Apple Cider Donuts with a Spiced Sugar and Cinnamon Topping.

These baked apple cider donuts are delicious and easy to make! These donuts don’t require any oil, they bake up in the oven in 10 minutes. We reduce down fresh apple cider to give these donuts the best flavor. The donuts are finished off with a sugar and cinnamon topping.

I brought these delicious donuts to a pumpkin carving party and fall bonfire. They were quickly eaten up. My little girl loved these donuts and wants me to make them again already.

Here’s a frequently asked questions (FAQ) guide for baked apple cider donuts:

Baked Apple Cider Donuts FAQ

1. What makes baked apple cider donuts different from fried donuts?
Baked apple cider donuts are healthier than traditional fried donuts as they use less oil. They have a cake-like texture and are typically denser, whereas fried donuts tend to be lighter and crispier on the outside.

2. What ingredients are needed to make baked apple cider donuts?
Key ingredients include apple cider, flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, eggs, butter, and vanilla extract. Some recipes may call for buttermilk or yogurt to enhance the moistness of the donuts.

3. How do I reduce apple cider for the recipe?
To concentrate the apple cider flavor, reduce the cider by simmering it over medium heat until it reduces to about half or more of its original volume. This intensifies the flavor without adding too much liquid to the batter.

4. Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
While apple cider is preferred for its robust flavor, you can substitute apple juice. However, apple cider has a more intense, natural apple taste, which enhances the overall flavor of the donuts.

5. What type of pan should I use?
A standard non-stick donut pan is ideal for baked donuts. Silicone donut pans also work well and make it easier to remove the donuts after baking. Each cavity should be lightly greased to ensure the donuts don’t stick.

6. How long should I bake the donuts?
Baked apple cider donuts typically bake for 10-12 minutes at 350°F (175°C). You’ll know they are ready when a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

7. Can I freeze baked apple cider donuts?
Yes! Once cooled, you can freeze the donuts in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, leave them at room temperature or heat them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.

8. How can I get a crunchy sugar coating on my donuts?
After the donuts are baked, brush them with melted butter and immediately roll them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture. This gives the donuts a sweet, crunchy outer coating.

9. Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s suitable for baking. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binding agent for the best texture.

10. Can I use store-bought apple cider?
Store-bought apple cider works fine. If you want a stronger flavor, consider reducing it as described earlier.

11. How long do baked apple cider donuts last?
Baked apple cider donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can last 1-2 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. For longer freshness, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.

12. How can I add variations to the recipe?
You can experiment by adding chopped apples, caramel drizzle, or even nuts. Some variations also include spices like allspice or cloves to enhance the autumn flavors.

How is Traditional Apple Cider Made?

Traditional apple cider is made by pressing fresh apples to extract their juice, which is then left unfiltered, giving it a cloudy appearance and rich flavor. The process begins by washing and crushing the apples into a pulp, often using a cider press to squeeze out the juice. Unlike apple juice, which is typically filtered and pasteurized, traditional cider retains apple solids and is sometimes fermented to make it alcoholic. Non-alcoholic cider is enjoyed as a fresh, tangy beverage, while the fermented version, known as hard cider, develops a more complex flavor over time. Some recipes also include mulling spices like cinnamon and cloves for a warm, seasonal twist.

More Delicious Recipes: