Apple Cider Donuts are a cozy, autumn-inspired treat bursting with the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh apple cider. These donuts are soft, tender, and coated in a glistening cinnamon-sugar mixture that adds just the right amount of sweetness and crunch.

They’re perfect for cool fall mornings, weekend brunches, or whenever you crave a warm, nostalgic dessert.

The irresistible aroma of simmering apple cider and freshly fried donuts fills your kitchen with the comforting scent of fall—making every bite a little celebration of the season.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Apple Cider Donuts because they capture the very essence of fall in one bite. The reduction of apple cider intensifies the flavor, infusing the donuts with a natural sweetness and depth that store-bought versions can’t match. Each donut is tender inside and perfectly crisp on the outside, especially when coated in warm cinnamon sugar.

It’s also a joy to make—simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and a result that’s heartwarming and homemade. Pair one with a hot cup of cider or coffee, and it’s pure comfort.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it combines seasonal flavors with nostalgic comfort. Whether you bake or fry them, Apple Cider Donuts deliver bakery-quality flavor right from your kitchen.

They’re a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings, brunches, or fall festivals—and they freeze beautifully for quick treats later. Once you make these donuts from scratch, you’ll never go back to the store-bought version again!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Chilling Time: 1 hour (for dough)
Total Time: About 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: Makes 12 donuts
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per donut

Cuisine and Course

Cuisine: American
Course: Breakfast / Dessert / Snack

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

2 cups apple cider
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
½ cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Coating:

½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

Simple Cooking Directions

Simmer apple cider until reduced to about ½ cup. Let cool.
Whisk dry ingredients in one bowl.
Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs, vanilla, and reduced cider.
Combine wet and dry ingredients with buttermilk to form dough.
Chill dough for 1 hour.
Roll out and cut into donut shapes.
Fry or bake until golden brown.
Dip in melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Pour 2 cups of apple cider into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to about ½ cup. This takes 10–15 minutes.
Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla and the cooled reduced apple cider.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk.
Mix until just combined—do not overmix. The dough will be slightly sticky.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (this makes the dough easier to handle).

Step 6: Shape the Donuts

Lightly flour a surface and roll the dough to about ½ inch thick.
Use a donut cutter (or two round cutters) to cut out donut shapes. Re-roll scraps to make more.

Step 7: Fry the Donuts

Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
Fry 2–3 donuts at a time for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
Remove and drain on paper towels.

(For baked donuts: Bake at 350°F / 175°C for 10–12 minutes in a greased donut pan.)

Step 8: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
Brush each warm donut with melted butter, then toss in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve these warm, coated donuts:

With hot apple cider, coffee, or chai tea.
As a dessert platter with caramel dipping sauce.
Alongside vanilla ice cream for a sweet contrast.
Wrapped in parchment paper for a charming autumn brunch presentation.

Additional Recipe Tips

Reducing the apple cider concentrates its flavor—don’t skip this step!
Keep oil temperature steady while frying to avoid greasy donuts.
Use a spider strainer or slotted spoon to safely lift donuts from the oil.
Don’t overwork the dough—it should stay soft and tender.
For extra apple flavor, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar with a pinch of apple pie spice.

Variations

Baked Apple Cider Donuts: Use a donut pan instead of frying for a lighter version.
Glazed Version: Drizzle with an apple cider glaze made of powdered sugar and cider.
Maple Apple Donuts: Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the batter.
Stuffed Donuts: Inject apple compote or caramel inside for a surprise center.
Spiced Sugar Coating: Add cloves and cardamom to the coating for a warm spice twist.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days; reheat in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispness.
Freezing: Freeze uncoated donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw, warm, and coat in cinnamon sugar before serving.

Special Equipment Needed

Donut cutter or two round cookie cutters
Deep pot or fryer
Candy thermometer (to monitor oil temperature)
Mixing bowls
Rolling pin
Wire cooling rack

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! Use a donut pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes until lightly golden.

Q2. What type of apple cider should I use?
Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider (not apple juice). It gives the donuts a deeper, authentic flavor.

Q3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made and chilled overnight before rolling and frying.

Q4. Why reduce the cider?
Reducing concentrates the apple flavor and prevents the dough from being too wet.

Q5. How can I make them dairy-free?
Substitute plant-based butter and non-dairy milk (like almond milk mixed with 1 teaspoon lemon juice for buttermilk).

Conclusion

Apple Cider Donuts are the taste of autumn in every bite—warm, fragrant, and perfectly spiced. With their crispy exterior, soft interior, and rich apple flavor, they make the ultimate fall indulgence.

Whether baked or fried, these donuts are a delightful treat that brings cozy farmhouse charm to your kitchen. Enjoy them fresh, share them with loved ones, and savor the sweetness of the season.