Apple Cider Donuts
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Who else is excited for fall? To me, no autumn is complete without a warm, cozy apple cider donut. This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s super easy and packed with seasonal flavors. I’m especially excited to use Eggland’s Best eggs in this batch—those eggs have six times more Vitamin D than regular ones, so, you know, these donuts are extra nourishing! Plus, they help create that perfect fluffy texture that makes these donuts irresistible. Look for them at your local grocery store today!
I love whipping these up for a quick breakfast or a sweet afternoon treat when the weather starts to turn crisp. So, grab your donut pan, and let’s dive into this cozy fall recipe that’s bound to make your kitchen smell amazing!
Why You’ll Love Apple Cider Donuts
- Perfect Fall Flavor: These donuts capture all the cozy, spiced flavors of autumn with apple cider and warm spices.
- Quick and Easy: With a simple prep and bake time, you can have fresh, homemade donuts ready in under 30 minutes.
- Nourishing Ingredients: Using Eggland’s Best eggs, which have six times more Vitamin D, makes these donuts a bit healthier without sacrificing taste.
- Irresistible Texture: The combination of apple cider and spices creates a soft, fluffy donut that’s perfectly sweet and comforting.
- Fun to Make: Coating the warm donuts in cinnamon-sugar is a fun, delicious finishing touch that makes baking feel extra special.
Ingredients Needed To Make Apple Cider Donuts
Make sure you scroll down to the recipe card to see the full list of ingredients needed for this recipe.
- 1.1 GF flour
- Baking powder
- Baking soda
- Kosher salt
- Ground cinnamon
- Ground clove
- Ground nutmeg
- Vanilla extract
- Butter, melted
- Apple cider
- Milk
- Granulated sugar
- Brown sugar
- Eggland’s Best egg
For the Topping
- Ground cinnamon
- Granulated sugar
- Butter, melted
Substitutions + Alternatives
Can I use All-Purpose Flour?
Yes, All-Purpose Flour can be used. Use the same amount that is listed in the ingredients, but swap with all purpose.
Get all the best baking tips!
Wondering how in the world to get the BEST bake every time? We’ve laid it all out for you.
Can I use regular dairy?
Feel free to make this recipe your own. I use dairy-free products, but feel welcome to choose your preferred dairy option without any recipe adjustments. Unless specified otherwise, you have the flexibility to use the dairy products of your choice for the recipe.
Note: While almond milk is an option, it is less preferred due to its liquid consistency. Consider opting for a milk alternative with a thicker texture.
Oven Temperatures
Oven temperatures can vary significantly from one oven to another. To achieve consistent results, it’s crucial to know the exact temperature inside your oven. The safest and most accurate way to determine this is by using an oven thermometer. This simple tool can help you avoid underbaking or overbaking your treats.
How To Make Apple Cider Donuts
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and spray the donut pan with non-stick baking spray.
- In one bowl, mix the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg.
- In another bowl, whisk together the vanilla, melted butter, apple cider, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and Eggland’s Best egg.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Pour the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full.
- Bake for 10-13 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the donuts slightly on a wire rack.
- For the topping, melt the butter and mix cinnamon with granulated sugar.
- Dip each warm donut into the melted butter, then coat with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Enjoy your freshly baked donuts!
Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to switch up the topping by using a mixture of powdered sugar and cinnamon or adding a drizzle of caramel for extra sweetness.
Commonly Asked Questions
What if I don’t have apple cider?
If you don’t have apple cider, you can substitute it with apple juice. It won’t have quite the same depth of flavor, but it will still taste great.
Can I make these donuts in advance?
Yes, you can make the donuts ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze them and then reheat before serving.
How do I store leftover donuts?
Store leftover donuts in an airtight container to keep them fresh. They’re best enjoyed within a few days but can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
How should I reheat the donuts?
To reheat, place the donuts in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This will help restore their freshness and make them taste like they’re just out of the oven.
Can I use a different type of sugar for the topping?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with powdered sugar for a lighter coating or use brown sugar for a richer, deeper flavor.
What’s the best way to coat the donuts?
For the best results, coat the donuts while they are still warm. This allows the melted butter and cinnamon-sugar mixture to adhere perfectly, giving you that classic apple cider donut experience.
Apple Cider Donuts
Equipment
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
For the Donuts
- 1 ⅔ cups 1.1 GF Flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ⅛ tsp ground clove
- ⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp butter melted
- ¾ cup apple cider
- ¼ cup milk
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- 1 Eggland’s Best egg
For the Topping
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 tbsp butter melted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray your donut pan with non-stick baking spray.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, ground cinnamon, ground clove, and ground nutmeg. Mix well.
- Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vanilla extract, melted butter, apple cider, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and the Eggland's Best egg until fully combined.
- Combine: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just incorporated.
- Fill the Donut Pan: Divide the batter evenly into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10-13 minutes, or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Flip the donuts onto a wire cooling rack and let them cool slightly.
- Prepare the Topping: In one bowl, melt the butter. In another bowl, mix together the cinnamon and granulated sugar.
- Dip and Coat: While the donuts are still warm, dip each one into the melted butter and then into the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Ensure each donut is well-coated.
- Enjoy: Serve the donuts warm and enjoy the taste of fall!
Nutrition
I’ve got to say, these apple cider donuts are a total game-changer for fall! The combination of warm spices and apple cider is unbeatable, and the crispy cinnamon-sugar coating takes them to the next level. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of coffee or serving them up at a cozy get-together, they’re sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and let me know how much you love them!
