Apple Cider Donuts Recipe You’ll Love Every Fall

There’s something deeply comforting about the smell of apple cider donuts baking or frying on a crisp fall morning. This apple cider donuts recipe you’ll love captures that perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and tender textures that make these treats a seasonal favorite. Whether you’re serving them for breakfast, a weekend brunch, or a cozy snack, these donuts never disappoint.

this Recipe

Using real apple cider and a blend of warm spices, this recipe offers a homemade twist that beats store-bought every time. Follow along and you’ll be enjoying soft, pillowy donuts with a crisp cinnamon sugar coating in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made with real apple cider for authentic fall flavor
• Light, tender inside with a perfectly crisp cinnamon sugar crust
• Simple ingredients you likely have on hand
• Fried to golden perfection for that classic donut texture
• Great for breakfast, brunch, or afternoon treats

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your apple cider donuts come out delicious every time.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup apple cider, reduced to 1/2 cup
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups)
• For coating: 1 cup granulated sugar mixed with 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 12 donuts
• Calories: Approximately 220 per donut

How to Make Apple cider donuts – Recipe You’ll Love – That Never Disappoints

1. Start by reducing your apple cider: pour 1 cup cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to about 1/2 cup, about 15 minutes. Let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg with granulated sugar and brown sugar until smooth. Stir in the cooled cider reduction, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing gently until just combined—a sticky dough will form. Avoid overmixing to keep donuts tender.
5. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and gently roll it out to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (one large, one small) to cut out 12 donuts.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F. Fry donuts in batches for about 1 minute per side or until golden brown and puffed.
7. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a paper towel-lined tray to drain excess oil.
8. While still warm, toss each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
9. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor. Enjoy your homemade apple cider donuts!

Tips for the Best Results

• Make sure to reduce the apple cider to concentrate its flavor without adding too much liquid to the dough.
• Maintain oil temperature between 350-360°F for even frying and a crispy exterior.
• Do not overcrowd the frying pot; cook in small batches to keep oil temperature steady.
• Use fresh spices for the best aromatic effect in your donuts.
• Coat donuts while warm to ensure the cinnamon sugar sticks perfectly.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover apple cider donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.

To reheat, warm the donuts in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwave reheating as it may make them soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the donuts at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes until golden. However, frying gives the classic crispy texture that pairs best with the cinnamon sugar coating.

What can I substitute for apple cider if I don’t have any?

You can use apple juice reduced down similarly or a mixture of apple juice and a splash of lemon juice to mimic the tartness. The flavor won’t be as rich but still tasty.

Why are my donuts dense instead of light and fluffy?

Overmixing the dough or using expired baking powder can cause dense donuts. Mix just until combined and check your leavening agents are fresh for the best rise.

Can I add other flavors to the donuts?

Absolutely! Adding a bit of orange zest or swapping some spices for pumpkin pie spice can give a seasonal twist. You can also drizzle glaze or dip in chocolate for variety.