Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts

These Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts are the perfect treat for autumn, capturing the essence of fall in every bite. With a delightful blend of spices and the warm flavor of reduced apple cider, these donuts are moist and delicious. Whether you’re enjoying them with a warm cup of coffee or serving them at a gathering, they will surely impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for bakers of all skill levels.
• Fall Flavors: The combination of apple cider and warming spices creates a cozy taste that embodies the season.
• Healthier Option: Baked rather than fried, these donuts are a lighter choice without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: Add grated apple or adjust the spices to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a delightful dessert.

Tools and Preparation

To get started on making your Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Piping bag or zip-top bag

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: This specialized pan shapes your donuts perfectly, giving them that classic look.
• Mixing bowls: Having different sizes allows for easy mixing of dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Whisk: A whisk ensures that your batter is well combined and fluffy, leading to light donuts.

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Ingredients

• For the donuts:
• 1 cup fresh apple cider
• 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup cake flour (or more all-purpose if needed)
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• Pinch of allspice
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/3 cup buttermilk (room temp)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: 1 tbsp grated apple for extra moisture and apple flavor

For topping:
– 3 tbsp melted butter
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp cinnamon

How to Make Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts

Step 1: Reduce the Cider

Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan and let it gently simmer over medium heat until it’s down to about ⅓ cup — this should take around 15–20 minutes. Set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a separate small pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Keep cooking until it foams and turns a rich golden brown with that toasty, nutty smell that tells you it’s ready. Let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Prep the Pan

Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan so nothing sticks.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

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

Step 5: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the browned butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, cooled cider reduction, buttermilk, and vanilla. If you’re using grated apple, stir that in now.

Step 6: Bring it Together

Add the dry mixture to the wet and gently fold until just combined. Don’t overmix — the batter should be thick but not overworked.

Step 7: Fill and Bake

Transfer the batter to a piping bag (or a zip-top bag with the corner snipped) and pipe into the donut cavities, filling each about two-thirds full. Bake for 10–12 minutes until they spring back lightly when touched.

Step 8: Add the Topping

While the donuts are still warm, brush them with melted butter and toss in cinnamon sugar until fully coated.

Enjoy your deliciously spiced treats!

How to Serve Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts

Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts are a delightful fall treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a cozy gathering or simply treating yourself, these donuts pair wonderfully with a range of beverages and accompaniments.

With Warm Beverages

• Coffee: The rich flavors of coffee complement the spiced notes of the donuts, creating a perfect morning or afternoon pairing.
• Hot Chocolate: Indulge in a sweet experience with creamy hot chocolate that balances the spices beautifully.
• Apple Cider: Enjoy these donuts with warm apple cider for an extra burst of apple flavor, perfect for chilly days.

As Part of a Dessert Spread

• Pumpkin Pie: Combine these donuts with classic pumpkin pie for a festive dessert table that celebrates fall.
• Cheesecake Bites: Offer mini cheesecake bites alongside for a creamy contrast to the spiced donuts’ texture.
• Fruit Platter: A fresh fruit platter adds brightness and balances the richness of the donuts.

For Special Occasions

• Brunch Buffet: Serve them as part of a brunch spread, alongside quiche and fresh pastries, for an inviting meal.
• Holiday Gatherings: These donuts can be a fun addition to any holiday dessert lineup, bringing warmth and cheer to your celebrations.

How to Perfect Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts

To achieve the best results with your Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure you create perfectly moist and flavorful treats every time.

• Bold Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh apple cider for maximum flavor; it significantly enhances the overall taste of the donuts.
• Bold Measure Ingredients Accurately: Proper measurements are crucial in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accuracy, especially for flour and sugar.
• Bold Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold the batter until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts instead of light, fluffy ones.
• Bold Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated properly. An oven thermometer can help you maintain an accurate temperature for even baking.
• Bold Allow Cooling Time: Let the donuts cool slightly before removing them from the pan. This helps maintain their structure and prevents sticking.
• Bold Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Try adding chopped nuts or a drizzle of glaze for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts

These baked donuts pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavor profile while providing delightful variety. Here’s a list of options to consider:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a refreshing contrast to the sweet donuts.
2. Cinnamon Oatmeal: A warm bowl of cinnamon oatmeal complements the spiced flavors perfectly while adding heartiness to your meal.
3. Sautéed Apples: Caramelized apples cooked in cinnamon bring out more apple flavor while adding sweetness and warmth to your plate.
4. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad offers freshness and balances out indulgence with vibrant flavors from seasonal fruits.
5. Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce: Serve warm maple syrup as a dipping option for those who desire extra sweetness alongside their donuts.
6. Chai Tea Cookies: These cookies echo similar spices found in the baked donuts and make for an excellent companion at any gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can sometimes be tricky, especially when making Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Not reducing the cider enough: Failing to reduce the apple cider can lead to a less flavorful donut. Ensure you simmer it down to about ⅓ cup for maximum taste.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can create tough donuts instead of soft ones. Mix just until combined for a tender texture.
• Skipping the browning butter step: Neglecting to brown the butter means missing out on its nutty flavor. Take the time to brown it for added depth.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold buttermilk or eggs can affect the batter’s texture. Allow them to reach room temperature before mixing.
• Not greasing the pan properly: Skipping this step can result in donuts that stick and break apart. Always grease your donut pan thoroughly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes, store-bought apple cider works well. Just make sure it’s not overly sweetened.

How do I make these donuts gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, mix regular milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your donuts by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter.

How long do these donuts last?

When stored properly, they will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

Spiced Apple Cider Baked Donuts capture the essence of fall with every bite. Their cozy flavors paired with a buttery cinnamon-sugar coating make them irresistible. Plus, they’re easy to customize! Try adding different spices or mix-ins for your unique twist on this delightful treat.