Baked Apple Cider Donuts: A Cozy Treat

There’s nothing quite like the warm, sweet aroma of freshly baked donuts filling your kitchen, particularly on a crisp autumn morning. Baked Apple Cider Donuts provide a delightful twist on traditional flavors, marrying the tangy sweetness of apple cider with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. These soft, cake-like donuts are not only a treat for the taste buds but a cozy hug for the soul. Perfectly tender and a little spiced, they transform an ordinary breakfast into a memorable feast, calling for family, friends, and warm beverages to accompany each bite.

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 9g

(Nutrition information verified using the USDA FoodData Central and Mayo Clinic recommendations.)

Why Make This Recipe

Baked Apple Cider Donuts are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, which is perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers. Their inviting aroma fills the home, creating a sense of warmth and community — ideal for cozy mornings and family gatherings. Serve them at breakfast, brunch, or even as a delightful snack with your afternoon tea. The delightful blend of spices paired with the moist, soft texture ensures that every bite is satisfying and comforting.

How to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Ingredients

2 cups apple cider
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
2 large eggs
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Ingredients:

1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Alternative flours (e.g., gluten-free flour blend)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
In a saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until reduced to about 1 cup. Allow it to cool.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a separate bowl, combine the reduced apple cider, applesauce, eggs, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined without overmixing.
Fill each donut mold about 2/3 full with the batter.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar before serving.

How to Serve

For optimal enjoyment, serve these donuts plain or warm with a pat of butter. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or a soothing mug of tea. For an added touch, consider toasting them lightly and drizzling with honey for a scrumptious afternoon snack.

How to Store

Store your donuts at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To preserve their freshness longer, consider refrigerating them for up to a week or freezing for up to 3 months. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving to bring back their delightful texture.

Expert Tips

Best Apple Types: For the most authentic flavor, use fresh apple cider made from tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
Spice Combinations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spice levels. A hint of ginger or cloves can elevate the flavor complexity.
Testing Doneness: Besides a toothpick, gently press on the donut’s top; it should spring back if baked through.

Delicious Variations

Vegan Version: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use almond milk for wet ingredients.
Cinnamon Swirl: Swirl in a cinnamon-sugar mix into the batter for a textured finish that surprises the taste buds.
Gluten-Free Alternative: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour to make these delicious donuts accessible for those with dietary restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute apple cider with apple juice?
Yes, apple juice can be used, but it may result in a sweeter flavor profile.
What if the donuts feel dense?
This can occur from overmixing the batter. Ensure to mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
Can I use frozen apple cider?
Yes, thawed frozen apple cider can be used without any issues in taste or texture.
How can I enhance the flavor?
Consider adding chopped fresh apples or cranberries to the batter for additional flavor and texture.
What should I do with leftovers?
Leftover donuts can be crumbled over yogurt or used to create an exquisite bread pudding.

Conclusion

These Baked Apple Cider Donuts encapsulate the flavors of fall and are the perfect addition to your recipe repertoire. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or shared with loved ones, they are guaranteed to bring smiles and warmth into your home. We encourage you to try this recipe, share your thoughts, and experiment with your variations. Happy baking!