Name: Baked Apple Cider Donuts: The Best Easy Recipe for Fall Delights
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 41 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups apple cider; 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 0.75 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon apple pie spice; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1 large egg (at room temperature); 0.5 cup brown sugar (packed, light or dark); 0.5 cup granulated sugar; 0.5 cup milk (at room temperature); 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract; 1 cup granulated sugar; 0.75 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.75 teaspoon apple pie spice; 6 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

Introduction to Baked Apple Cider Donuts

When it comes to cozy, homemade treats, baked apple cider donuts stand out as the ultimate indulgence during the fall season. These delights combine the warm flavors of apple and spice, making them perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack. With their tender crumb and inviting aroma, you’ll find yourself reaching for these donuts time and again.

Why Baked Apple Cider Donuts Are the Perfect Homemade Treat?

There’s something special about making these donuts from scratch. The process begins with reducing apple cider to concentrate its flavor, infusing each bite with a rich sweetness that store-bought options simply can’t match. Plus, baking instead of frying means they’re lighter and less messy, allowing you to enjoy more and worry less!

Hosting a brunch? Baked apple cider donuts are sure to impress your guests. The sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar gives them an irresistible crunch that complements their moist interior. They pair beautifully with a hot cup of cider or a pumpkin spice latte. Not to mention, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for the first bite!

Ready to dive into this delicious world of baked goodness? Let’s get started with the recipe!

Ingredients for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

When it comes to making delightful baked apple cider donuts, having the right ingredients is essential for achieving that perfect balance of flavors. Here's what you'll need to whip up these scrumptious treats:

1 and ½ cups (360ml) apple cider: The star of the show, apple cider gives these donuts their signature flavor.
2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled): Essential for structure, this ingredient absorbs the moisture and creates a soft texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda: This helps the donuts rise.
¾ teaspoon baking powder: A crucial leavening agent for fluffiness.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1 teaspoon apple pie spice: These spices add warmth and depth to each bite.
¼ teaspoon salt: A small but essential touch to enhance the sweet flavors.
2 Tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture.
1 large egg, at room temperature: Binds everything together.
½ cup (100g) packed brown sugar and ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar: For that perfectly sweet taste.
½ cup (120ml) milk, at room temperature: Ensures a smooth batter.
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor profile beautifully.

Topping Ingredients

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar: For that classic sweet coating.
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon and ¾ teaspoon apple pie spice: To sprinkle on top for added spice and flavor.
6 Tablespoons (85g) unsalted butter, melted: To help the sugar stick and add extra deliciousness.

With these ingredients, you're well on your way to making delectable baked apple cider donuts that will impress anyone who tries them! Want to know how to perfectly measure your ingredients? Check out this helpful guide on how to measure baking ingredients.

Preparing Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Baked apple cider donuts bring the flavors of fall right into your kitchen. With their warm spices and sweet aroma, these donuts are perfect for cozy weekends or whenever you need a little treat. Let’s walk through each step so you can make these delicious goodies with confidence!

Start With Reducing the Apple Cider

The first step is to reduce the apple cider, which intensifies its flavor. Pour 1 and ½ cups of cider into a small saucepan. Heat it over low, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to let it simmer until it thickens and reduces to about ½ cup (approx. 120ml). This process usually takes around 20 minutes, so keep an eye on it! If you notice any floating spices or solids, leave them undisturbed. Once done, set the cider aside to cool for about 10 minutes.

Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Donut Pan

While the cider is cooling, it’s time to preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). This ensures even baking! Don’t forget to spray your donut pan with non-stick spray so your lovely donuts won’t stick—nobody wants that! You might find it helpful to have a donut pan for perfectly shaped treats.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together your dry ingredients: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, apple pie spice, and salt. This blend creates a lovely spice-infused base for your donuts. Set this bowl aside for a moment.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

Now it’s time to put together the wet ingredients. In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, milk, and vanilla extract. Pour in your cooled reduced apple cider and mix until everything is well combined. This is where the magic starts to happen!

Form the Batter and Fill the Pan

Spoon the batter into the donut cavities of your pan. For a mess-free approach, using a large zipped-top bag can be a game changer. Cut a corner of the bag, and pipe the batter into each cup, filling them about halfway. This will ensure your donuts have room to rise without overflowing.

Bake the Delicious Donuts

Place your filled donut pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-11 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges look lightly browned, and a quick poke test shows they bounce back. Let them cool for two minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Remember to re-grease the pan for your next batch!

Coat the Donuts in Cinnamon Sugar

To finish off your baked apple cider donuts, prepare a delightful coating. In a medium bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and apple pie spice. Once your donuts are cool enough to handle, dip each one in melted butter, followed by the cinnamon sugar mix. This step adds a wonderful sweet crunch that perfectly complements the soft, spiced donut interior.

And there you have it—homemade baked apple cider donuts that are best enjoyed immediately. However, if you happen to have leftovers, they’ll keep for up to two days at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to five days. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the essence of fall!

Variations on Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Glazed Apple Cider Donuts

If you’re a fan of a sweet touch, try glazing your baked apple cider donuts. Simply whisk together powdered sugar and a bit of apple cider until smooth, then dip the warm donuts for a sugary coating that adds a delightful contrast to the spicy flavors. It's a quick and easy way to elevate these treats, perfect for a cozy snack or an afternoon pick-me-up!

Apple Cider Donuts with Turkey Bacon Bits

For those craving something savory, consider adding crispy turkey bacon bits to your baked apple cider donuts. Simply fold cooked and crumbled turkey bacon into the batter before baking. This unexpected twist not only adds a satisfying crunch but also a unique flavor profile that balances the sweetness of the apple cider. Trust us, this combo will surprise and delight your taste buds!

Cooking Tips for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

If you're looking to elevate your baked apple cider donuts, here are some helpful tips!

Reduce the Cider Properly: Ensure you're simmering your apple cider down to the right amount. This concentrated flavor makes a big difference! Aim for about ½ cup and don’t rush it; patience pays off.
Perfect Donut Shape: Use a piping bag for easy filling of the donut pans. This prevents mess and helps you achieve that smooth, round shape.
Cooling is Key: Allow donuts to cool slightly before dunking them in butter and the cinnamon-sugar mix. This helps the topping stick better!

For more kitchen tips, check out Sally's Baking Addiction for expert advice! Happy baking!

Serving Suggestions for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

When it comes to baked apple cider donuts, pairing them with the right accompaniments can elevate your flavor experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

Coffee or Tea: Enjoy these donuts with a warm cup of chai tea or pumpkin spice latte for the ultimate cozy vibe.
Fresh Fruit: Serve alongside sliced apples or pears for a refreshing contrast. The crispness of the fruit complements the soft, spiced donuts perfectly.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle of maple syrup adds an extra touch of sweetness and enhances the fall flavors.
Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, pair with vanilla or caramel ice cream—donut a la mode, anyone?

Feel free to get creative; these donuts can be the star of your brunch spread or a sweet snack any time of day!

Time Breakdown for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Preparation Time

Get ready for deliciousness! The preparation for these baked apple cider donuts takes about 20 minutes. It’s the perfect time to gather your ingredients and let the warm aroma of apple cider simmer in your kitchen.

Baking Time

Once your donuts are prepped, they’ll only need around 10-11 minutes to bake. That's just enough time to whip up a quick cup of coffee or take a breather!

Total Time

In total, you’re looking at approximately 30-35 minutes from start to finish. In no time, you’ll have mouthwatering baked apple cider donuts ready to share with friends or indulge yourself!

With a little planning, you can have these delightful treats ready for brunch or as an afternoon snack. For more in-depth baking tips, feel free to check out Sally's Baking Addiction for expert advice!

Nutritional Facts for Baked Apple Cider Donuts

When indulging in these scrumptious baked apple cider donuts, it's helpful to know what you're putting into your body. Here’s a quick snapshot of their nutritional profile:

Calories: Each donut contains approximately 180 calories, making them a delightful treat without being overly indulgent.
Sugar: With about 14 grams of sugar, these donuts satisfy your sweet cravings but can still fit into a balanced diet.
Fiber: They offer around 1 gram of fiber per donut, giving you a small boost towards your daily nutritional needs.

These figures can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes, so feel free to tweak the recipe to better suit your dietary preferences. Enjoy these delightful donuts as a special breakfast item or an afternoon snack!

FAQs about Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Can I use a different type of flour?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for all-purpose flour, feel free to experiment with alternatives. Whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend can work well, but keep in mind that they may affect the texture. If you're curious, check out this guide on flour substitutions for more tips.

How long do these donuts last?
Baked apple cider donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but they can stay tasty for a while! Stored in an airtight container, they last up to 2 days at room temperature or about 5 days in the refrigerator. If they last that long, you’ve done better than most!

Can I freeze baked apple cider donuts?
Yes! These donuts freeze beautifully. Just make sure to let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge or reheat in the oven. Who doesn’t love a warm, spiced donut any time of year?

Conclusion on Baked Apple Cider Donuts

In conclusion, baked apple cider donuts are not just a delightful fall treat; they bring warmth and nostalgia to any occasion. These delectable donuts are easy to make, and they capture the essence of autumn in every bite. Be sure to share with friends and enjoy the cozy moments together!