Introduction

Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating are a quintessential fall treat that brings the cozy flavors of autumn right into your kitchen. Soft, tender donuts are infused with the sweet, tangy flavor of apple cider and then coated in a generous layer of cinnamon sugar. Their slightly crisp exterior and melt-in-your-mouth interior make them irresistible for breakfast, dessert, or a snack with a warm cup of coffee or cider.

These donuts capture the nostalgic flavors of apple orchards, crisp fall air, and seasonal gatherings. The natural sweetness of apple cider pairs perfectly with fragrant cinnamon sugar, creating a classic treat that’s comforting and festive. Baking these at home fills the kitchen with the warm, inviting aroma of spice and apples—a true hallmark of autumn baking.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s soft, flavorful, and utterly addictive. The apple cider gives the donuts a subtle fruitiness and depth, while the cinnamon sugar coating adds just the right touch of sweetness and spice. They’re tender yet sturdy enough to hold their shape, making them perfect for dunking in coffee or sharing with family and friends.

Baking these donuts feels nostalgic, evoking memories of fall festivals and cozy mornings. The combination of spice, apple, and sugar is comforting and joyful—every bite tastes like a celebration of the season.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Perfect fall flavors: Apple cider and cinnamon sugar evoke the season beautifully.
Soft and tender texture: Light, moist, and airy donuts.
Easy to make: No fancy equipment required.
Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Great for breakfast, dessert, or snacks.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes per batch (fried or baked)
Total Time: ~35–40 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Calories: ~220 per donut

Course & Cuisine

Course: Dessert / Breakfast
Cuisine: American / Fall Treat

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

1 cup apple cider
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground allspice (optional)
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
½ cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Pour 1 cup apple cider into a small saucepan.
Simmer over medium heat until reduced to about ¼ cup, about 10–15 minutes. Let it cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, reduced apple cider, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Shape the Donuts

Option 1: Using a Donut Pan: Grease a donut pan and spoon batter into each cavity, filling about ¾ full.
Option 2: Piping (optional): Fill a piping bag and pipe batter into a greased donut pan.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 10–12 minutes, until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 7: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Melt 2–3 tablespoons butter in a small bowl.
In another bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon.
Brush each donut with melted butter, then dip or sprinkle generously with cinnamon sugar.

How to Serve

Serve warm or at room temperature.
Pair with hot apple cider, coffee, or milk for a cozy fall treat.
Optionally, drizzle with caramel sauce or glaze for extra indulgence.

Recipe Tips

Reduce the apple cider slowly for a more concentrated flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter; overmixing can make donuts dense.
Brush donuts with melted butter immediately after baking for the cinnamon sugar to stick.
Cool slightly before coating to prevent sugar from melting off.
Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for best texture.

Variations

Baked Donuts: Follow the same recipe in a donut pan for a healthier, less oily version.
Glazed Donuts: Replace cinnamon sugar with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla.
Spiced Apple Donuts: Add ¼ teaspoon ground cloves or cardamom for extra warmth.
Maple Cinnamon Donuts: Add 2 tablespoons maple syrup to the batter and glaze with maple sugar.
Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan for bite-sized treats.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncoated donuts in a single layer for up to 2 months. Thaw and coat with cinnamon sugar before serving.
Reheating: Warm donuts in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes to refresh texture.

Special Equipment Needed

Donut pan (for baked donuts) or deep fryer/skillet (for fried version)
Small saucepan (for reducing apple cider)
Mixing bowls
Whisk and spatula
Wire rack

FAQ

Q1: Can I fry these donuts instead of baking?
Yes! Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry for 1–2 minutes per side until golden. Drain on paper towels before coating.

Q2: Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Q3: How do I make them extra moist?
Do not overbake; slightly underbaked donuts remain soft. Using buttermilk helps keep them tender.

Q4: Can I use store-bought apple cider reduction?
Yes, but homemade reduction adds richer, more concentrated flavor.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar Coating are a cozy, comforting, and utterly delicious treat that captures the essence of fall. Soft, tender donuts with warm apple and cinnamon flavors are perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a seasonal snack.

This recipe is easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and versatile, making it a must-try for anyone who loves the nostalgic flavors of autumn.