Name: Apple Cider Baked Doughnuts with Maple Glaze
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup apple cider; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Apple cider baked doughnuts with a delightful maple glaze are a perfect treat for any season, but they shine especially bright in the fall. These baked doughnuts are soft and tender, infused with the warm flavors of apple and spices, making them an irresistible snack or breakfast option. Topped with a sweet maple glaze, they are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and learn how to create these mouthwatering baked doughnuts at home!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 12 doughnuts
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 180
Protein: 2g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 7g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 14g
Sodium: 150mg

Why Make This Apple Cider Baked Doughnuts with Maple Glaze

Making apple cider baked doughnuts is not just about creating a delicious treat; it’s also about embracing the essence of fall with warm, comforting flavors. These doughnuts are a healthier alternative to traditional fried doughnuts since they are baked, making them lower in fat. The combination of apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg brings the cozy fragrance of a fall festival right to your kitchen. Plus, the simplicity of the recipe allows anyone from novice bakers to seasoned pros to whip up this delightful batch with ease.

How to Make Apple Cider Baked Doughnuts with Maple Glaze

Ingredients:

1 cup apple cider
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed)

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a doughnut pan thoroughly to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your doughnuts pop out easily after baking.

Step 2: Reducing the Apple Cider

In a saucepan, reduce the apple cider over medium heat until it thickens down to about 1/4 cup, about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Once thickened, let it cool to room temperature.

Step 3: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing the dry ingredients thoroughly ensures that your doughnuts rise evenly.

Step 4: Combining the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, and the cooled, reduced apple cider until well combined. This mixture will add moisture and flavor to your doughnuts.

Step 5: Blending Ingredients Together

Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough doughnuts.

Step 6: Baking

Spoon the batter into the prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cooling

Allow the doughnuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This helps prevent sogginess and allows the doughnuts to firm up.

Step 8: Making the Maple Glaze

For the glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, and enough milk to achieve a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust the milk until you get the desired thickness.

Step 9: Finishing Touches

Dip the tops of the cooled doughnuts into the maple glaze, allowing the excess to drip off. Place them back on the wire rack and let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Apple Cider Baked Doughnuts with Maple Glaze

Serve these delicious doughnuts warm or at room temperature with a fresh cup of coffee or tea. They make a great breakfast treat, a delightful snack for an afternoon pick-me-up, or a sweet addition to any fall gathering. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped nuts or a dash of cinnamon on top of the glaze before it sets.

How to Store Apple Cider Baked Doughnuts with Maple Glaze

Store any leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, place them in the fridge. For best results, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Baked Doughnuts with Maple Glaze

Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor; it makes a significant difference in taste.
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the doughnuts light and fluffy.
If you don’t have a doughnut pan, you can use a muffin tin for doughnut holes instead.
Experiment with flavored extracts for a twist, such as almond or maple extract in the batter.
If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the amount of powdered sugar you use.

Delicious Variations

Spice it Up: Add a touch of ground ginger or allspice to the dry ingredients for an extra layer of flavor.
Fruity Twist: Fold in some chopped apples or nuts for added texture and flavor.
Chocolate Lovers: Drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze for a decadent treat.
Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts: Substitute apple cider with pumpkin puree and add pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these doughnuts gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that the baking powder is gluten-free as well.
Can I freeze the doughnuts?
Absolutely! Place them in an airtight container once cooled, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze when you’re ready to enjoy.
What can I use instead of apple cider?
If you don’t have apple cider, you can use apple juice with a dash of vinegar for a similar flavor profile.
How do I know when my doughnuts are done baking?
Insert a toothpick or skewer into the center of a doughnut; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, they’re ready to be taken out!
Can I adjust the sweetness of the glaze?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the glaze or opt for a lighter drizzle using just maple syrup.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Baked Doughnuts with Maple Glaze are a delightful way to savor the flavors of the season. They are easy to make, deliciously moist, and the maple glaze adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced doughnut base. Whether you’re enjoying them at breakfast or as a snack, these doughnuts are sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. So grab your ingredients and start baking – you won’t regret it!