Name: Apple Cider Baked Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup apple cider (reduce to ½ cup by simmering); 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp baking soda; ½ tsp salt; 1 tsp cinnamon; ¼ tsp nutmeg; 1 large egg; ½ cup brown sugar; ¼ cup melted butter; ½ cup buttermilk; Cinnamon-sugar mix (typically ½ cup sugar mixed with 1 tbsp cinnamon)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re searching for a cozy, flavorful treat that embodies the spirit of fall, look no further than this Apple Cider Baked Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe. These tender, cake-style doughnuts are infused with the warm, fruity notes of reduced apple cider and generously coated in a spiced cinnamon-sugar blend. What makes them even better is that they’re baked, not fried, making them a lighter way to indulge while still delivering that classic doughnut comfort. Whether you’re enjoying them for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, these doughnuts feel like a warm hug in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a dark blue textured surface with several ingredients arranged neatly. There are four red and yellow apples placed around a central wooden bowl filled with cinnamon sticks. To the left is a glass container with a golden brown substance. At the top right, there is a clear bowl filled with white granulated sugar. Below that, a white scoop containing a light brown powder is placed. To the bottom left is a small bowl filled with white flour. Next to it is an empty small wooden bowl. A dark brown bottle with a label is lying flat near the bottom right. The overall scene feels calm and organized, with all items clearly visible on the dark surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step toward creating doughnuts that are bursting with flavor and soft, cakey texture. Each item plays a vital role, from the tangy buttermilk tenderizing the dough to the warm spices that evoke autumn coziness.

1 cup apple cider (reduced to ½ cup): Concentrates the crisp apple flavor that defines these doughnuts.
1 ¾ cups flour: Provides the structure and gentle crumb you expect from a cake doughnut.
1 tsp baking powder: Adds the essential lift for light, fluffy doughnuts.
½ tsp baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to react and give extra rise and tenderness.
½ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavors.
1 tsp cinnamon: Brings warm spice, the soul of this recipe’s cinnamon sugar coating.
¼ tsp nutmeg: Adds depth and a hint of earthy spice.
1 egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to a rich texture.
½ cup brown sugar: Gives caramel-like sweetness and moisture.
¼ cup melted butter: Imparts richness for tender doughnuts with a golden color.
½ cup buttermilk: Adds tang and makes the crumb soft and moist.
Cinnamon-sugar mix for coating: The final irresistible layer of sweet spice for that classic doughnut finish.

How to Make Apple Cider Baked Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by gently simmering 1 cup of apple cider over medium heat until it reduces down to about ½ a cup. This concentrates the apple flavor and enhances the doughnut’s signature taste. Let it cool slightly so it won’t scramble the eggs later.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Combining these well ensures even distribution of spices and leaveners, so every bite is flavorful and the doughnuts rise perfectly.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the egg with the brown sugar until smooth and slightly thick. Stir in the melted butter, buttermilk, and the reduced apple cider. This luscious mixture brings moisture and sweetness that will make your doughnuts tender and fruity.

Step 4: Combine and Fill

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently fold until just combined — be careful not to overmix to keep your doughnuts light. Spoon or pipe the batter evenly into a greased doughnut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.

Step 5: Bake and Coat

Bake the doughnuts at 350 °F (175 °C) for about 10–12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. As soon as they’re out of the oven and still warm, brush each doughnut with melted butter and toss them in the cinnamon-sugar coating for that irresistible glazed finish.

How to Serve Apple Cider Baked Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe

A white paper towel holds ten round donuts and eighteen small donut holes, all covered in a light layer of granulated sugar. The donuts are golden brown with a slightly rough texture from the sugar, each with a round hole in the center. The small donut holes are clustered to the top right, matching the sugar coating and golden color of the larger donuts. The paper towel is on a black stovetop with a white marbled countertop in the background, and a clear glass bowl with a light orange mixture sits nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your doughnuts, consider dusting them with a touch of powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans add texture and a beautiful presentation to complement the apple cider flavor.

Side Dishes

These doughnuts pair wonderfully with a warm mug of chai tea, spiced coffee, or even a glass of cold milk. For a heartier breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a bowl of cinnamon spiced oatmeal to create a balanced and comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Create a charming fall-themed platter by stacking the doughnuts on a wooden board surrounded by autumn leaves, cinnamon sticks, and small pumpkins. Alternatively, serve each doughnut on individual dessert plates with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy yet elegant dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their softness. Refrigeration can dry them out, so it’s best avoided unless needed.

Freezing

These doughnuts freeze beautifully. Wrap each doughnut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the oven.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven magic, pop thawed doughnuts in a 300 °F (150 °C) oven for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave for 15 seconds works well, just be careful not to overheat and dry them out.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?

Absolutely! Use ½ cup of milk mixed with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar, let it sit for 5 minutes, and it will mimic buttermilk’s tang and acidity wonderfully.

Is it possible to make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or add some separately to help maintain structure.

Can I make these doughnuts vegan?

With some modifications, yes! Replace the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based milk and vegan butter. The result will be delicious, though the texture may be slightly different.

Why do I need to reduce the apple cider?

Reducing concentrates the apple flavor and prevents the dough from being too wet. It creates a rich, natural sweetness and depth that’s key to this recipe’s signature taste.

Can I skip the cinnamon-sugar coating?

You could, but the cinnamon-sugar is what makes these doughnuts truly irresistible, adding texture and a sweet, spicy finish. Alternatively, try glazing with cream cheese frosting or maple glaze for variety.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Baked Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts Recipe is my go-to for bringing the cozy, inviting flavors of fall into any morning or afternoon. The blend of tender crumb, warm spices, and that crunchy cinnamon-sugar coating makes each bite a little celebration. Trust me, once you try them fresh and warm, you’ll want to keep baking these doughnuts all season long. Give this recipe a whirl and enjoy the magic of homemade autumn goodness!