Name: Irresistibly Delicious Crispy Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts for Fall Mornings
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-purpose flour (Use good quality for the best results.); 1 tbsp Baking powder (Check expiration for potency.); 1/2 tsp Fine sea salt (Opt for fine salt for better integration.); 1 tsp Ground cinnamon (Freshly ground offers a stronger aroma.); 1/4 tsp Freshly grated nutmeg (Use fresh for a more pronounced flavor.); 1/4 cup Unsalted butter (Ensure it’s softened for easier mixing.); 1/2 cup Light brown sugar (Pack it lightly into the cup.); 1/2 cup Granulated sugar (Use regular white sugar.); 2 large Large eggs (Let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.); 1 tsp Vanilla extract (Use pure extract.); 1 cup Apple cider (Choose high-quality cider for the best taste.); 1 tbsp Nonstick cooking spray (Greases the pans for easy doughnut release.); 1/4 cup Cinnamon-sugar mixture (Combine equal parts cinnamon and granulated sugar.); 2 tbsp Melted butter (Adds flavor and helps the cinnamon-sugar stick.)

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As the leaves begin to turn and the crispness of fall fills the air, nothing invokes the season quite like the scent of freshly baked apple cider doughnuts wafting through the kitchen. The moment those warm spices mingle with the rich sweetness of apples, you’re instantly transported to cozy weekends spent gathering with loved ones. I first tried my hand at these delicious, crispy treats during a bustling brunch gathering, and let me tell you—everyone went back for seconds!

These baked apple cider doughnuts offer all the indulgent flavors of a classic fall dessert without the fuss of frying. With a golden-brown exterior that gives way to a soft and tender interior, they are the perfect accompaniment to your morning coffee or an afternoon cider. Plus, this recipe embraces easy substitutions to cater to dietary needs, ensuring that everyone can join in on the joy. So, roll up your sleeves—let’s dive into the warm embrace of autumn with every delightful bite!

Why are Delicious Crispy Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts a must-try?

Irresistible aroma: As they bake, your kitchen fills with captivating scents that signal the arrival of cozy fall mornings.
Crispy perfection: These doughnuts boast a delightful outer layer that perfectly complements their moist, fluffy interior.
Flavor explosion: They’re infused with rich apple cider, warm spices, and hints of buttery sweetness to elevate your taste buds.
Versatile options: Easily adapt the recipe for gluten-free or sugar-free diets, making them suitable for everyone.
Effortless preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you’re just a few minutes away from delightful homemade treats—perfect for those busy mornings! These doughnuts pair beautifully with a warm mug of coffee or cider, just like my Deliciously Snickers Frappuccino for an extra delightful experience.

Delicious Crispy Baked Apple Cider Doughnut Ingredients

• You’ll want to gather these ingredients for a delightful baking experience!

For the Batter

All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the doughnuts; use good quality for the best results.
Baking powder – Ensures the doughnuts rise to fluffy perfection; check expiration for potency.
Fine sea salt – Enhances flavor; opt for fine salt for better integration.
Ground cinnamon – Adds the characteristic warm spice; freshly ground offers a stronger aroma.
Freshly grated nutmeg – Provides subtle warmth; use fresh for a more pronounced flavor.
Unsalted butter (at room temperature) – Adds richness and moisture; ensure it’s softened for easier mixing.
Light brown sugar – Adds caramel flavor and moisture; pack it lightly into the cup.
Granulated sugar – Sweetens the batter and helps form a crust; use regular white sugar.
Large eggs (at room temperature) – Enhance texture; let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
Vanilla extract – Ties the flavors together with sweetness; use pure extract.
Apple cider – Infuses the doughnuts with rich apple flavor; choose high-quality cider for the best taste.
Nonstick cooking spray – Greases the pans for easy doughnut release.

Optional Glaze

Cinnamon-sugar mixture – Adds a sweet, spicy coating; combine equal parts cinnamon and granulated sugar.
Melted butter – For brushing on the doughnuts before dredging; adds flavor and helps the cinnamon-sugar stick.

These Delicious Crispy Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts are an authentic taste of fall, and with these fantastic ingredients, you’re on your way to creating memorable treats!

How to Make Delicious Crispy Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts

Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your doughnut pans by greasing them with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Whisk dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, fine sea salt, ground cinnamon, and freshly grated nutmeg. Whisk them together until well blended, creating a warm aroma of fall spices.
Cream butter and sugars: In a stand mixer, beat together the unsalted butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This adds that rich, buttery essence!
Add eggs and vanilla: Incorporate the large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the pure vanilla extract for a sweet touch that ties all the flavors together.
Combine mixtures: Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients while pouring in the apple cider. Stir until the batter is smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed to ensure no lumps remain.
Fill and bake: Spoon the batter into the prepared doughnut pans, filling them two-thirds full. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool and coat: Once baked, allow the doughnuts to cool slightly. Brush on melted butter, then dredge them in a cinnamon-sugar mixture for that irresistible sweet finish.

Optional: Serve these doughnuts warm with your favorite hot drink for a delightful treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Delicious Baked Apple Cider Doughnut Variations

Feel free to get creative and tailor these doughnuts to suit your tastes with these fun substitutions!

Pumpkin Spice Coffee: Swap out apple cider for pumpkin spice coffee for a delightful autumn twist that’s cozy and flavorful.
Maple Sweetness: Substitute granulated sugar with maple syrup to introduce a rich, earthy sweetness to your doughnuts.
Chocolaty Indulgence: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the batter for a luscious chocolatey surprise with each bite.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and depth. They pair beautifully with the spices!
Caramel Swirls: Drizzle some caramel sauce into the batter before baking for a sweet, gooey surprise that melts in your mouth.
Gluten-Free Goodness: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum for an equally airy and delicious treat.
Spicy Kick: For the adventurous, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the batter to give your doughnuts a surprising kick.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter to create a dairy-free version that’s just as scrumptious.

Let these variations guide you to new flavor adventures, making your baked apple cider doughnuts uniquely yours!

What to Serve with Delicious Crispy Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts?

As the crisp autumn air beckons, these warm doughnuts pair wonderfully with a variety of delightful accompaniments that will make your fall mornings magical.

Warm Apple Cider: A classic choice that mirrors the flavors of the doughnuts, enhancing the cozy fall vibe. Sipping this spiced drink while enjoying a doughnut creates a heartwarming experience.
Maple Pecan Coffee: The rich, nutty flavors of this coffee perfectly complement the cinnamon and apple in the doughnuts, making each bite more delightful. The warm beverage brings back memories of autumn gatherings.
Whipped Cream: Fluffy and sweet, a dollop of homemade whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence. The lightness of the cream balances the dense, sweet nature of the doughnuts beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Imagine warm doughnuts served alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The temperatures and textures collide perfectly, creating a blissful contrast.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling a warm caramel sauce over these doughnuts elevates them to a gourmet level, adding a rich sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A bright mix of seasonal fruits like pears and berries offers freshness and acidity to cut through the sweetness of the doughnuts. Each bite adds a burst of color and flavor.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For a special treat, topping your doughnuts with a tangy cream cheese frosting brings a gourmet flair. It’s a rich, sweet addition that those with a sweet tooth will love!
Chai Tea: The spiced essence of chai pairs exceptionally well with baked apple cider doughnuts, harmonizing the sweet and warm flavors for a perfect morning pick-me-up.

Expert Tips for Delicious Crispy Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs and butter, are at room temperature for better incorporation, leading to fluffier doughnuts.
Gentle Mixing: Don’t over-mix your batter after adding the dry ingredients; this can cause the doughnuts to become dense instead of light and airy.
Rotate for Even Baking: Rotate your doughnut pans halfway through cooking. This ensures even browning and that every doughnut bakes perfectly!
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your doughnuts while they bake. Overbaking can lead to dryness, so use the toothpick test as a reliable indicator for doneness.
Substitution Tips: If you’re looking for gluten-free options, swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend that contains xanthan gum for the best results. Enjoy these delicious crispy baked apple cider doughnuts!

Make Ahead Options

These Delicious Crispy Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the doughnut batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Just whisk the dry ingredients together and cream the butter and sugars, then combine the wet ingredients; refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to enjoy these treats, simply fill the doughnut pans and bake them directly from the fridge. For optimal quality, let them cool slightly before coating them in melted butter and cinnamon-sugar. This way, you’ll have warm, delightful doughnuts ready to impress at your next brunch gathering with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Delicious Crispy Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts

Room Temperature: Store the doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week, ensuring they are covered to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the doughnuts after they cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy the doughnuts warm, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

Delicious Crispy Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts Recipe FAQs

What type of apple cider should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose high-quality, unfiltered apple cider. This will provide a rich, authentic apple taste that elevates your doughnuts. You can find it at farmers’ markets or in the grocery store during the fall months.

How should I store baked apple cider doughnuts?
Store your delicious crispy baked apple cider doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate them for up to a week, making sure they’re well-covered to keep them moist and flavorful.

Can I freeze these doughnuts?
Yes, you can! To freeze your doughnuts, let them cool completely before wrapping each one individually in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be enjoyed for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw and reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Why did my doughnuts turn out dense?
Very often, this is due to over-mixing once the dry ingredients are added. Make sure to fold the batter gently just until combined to maintain that light and airy texture. Also, ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for better incorporation!

Are these doughnuts suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes! You can easily make these delicious crispy baked apple cider doughnuts gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Just check that your other ingredients, especially baking powder and spices, are gluten-free as well!

Can I add other flavors or toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or caramel swirls for added indulgence. For a festive twist, consider using pumpkin spice coffee instead of apple cider or drizzling them with a maple glaze. Enjoy experimenting!