Baked Apple Cider Donuts are the perfect treat for those crisp autumn days when you crave something sweet, warm, and inviting. Flavored with rich apple cider and warm spices, these donuts offer a delightful balance of sweetness and spiciness that makes them irresistible. Easy to prepare and bake, they will fill your kitchen with a cozy aroma that invites everyone to gather around for a delicious snack.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: 12 donuts
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 150
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fat: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 150mg
Why Make This Baked Apple Cider Donuts
Baked Apple Cider Donuts are a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts, making them the ideal choice for a guilt-free indulgence. These donuts are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make at home. Enjoy them for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a delightful dessert. Their fluffy texture combined with the rich flavors of apple cider and spices makes them a hit among both kids and adults. Plus, you can customize them with various toppings, making them suitable for any occasion!
How to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts
Making these delightful donuts is straightforward. Follow these simple steps to create a batch that will have your family and friends begging for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup apple cider
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
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Step 1: Preparation
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan to ensure your donuts come out easily after baking.
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Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until they are well combined.
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Step 3: Mixing Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the apple cider, applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined and smooth.
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Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing for the best texture.
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Step 5: Filling the Pan
Fill each donut mold about 2/3 full with the batter, ensuring even distribution for uniform baking.
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Step 6: Baking
Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Step 7: Cooling
Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
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Step 8: Finishing
Optional: Dust the cooled donuts with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar for an added touch of sweetness before serving.
How to Serve Baked Apple Cider Donuts
These donuts are delightful on their own but can be elevated with a sprinkle of powdered sugar, a drizzle of icing, or a dip in homemade caramel sauce. They make a fantastic afternoon treat paired with coffee or tea. Serve them warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert!
How to Store Baked Apple Cider Donuts
Store your Baked Apple Cider Donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying!
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Apple Cider Donuts
- Don’t Overmix: Stir the batter just until you see no dry flour. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts.
- Use Fresh Apple Cider: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality apple cider.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to add mix-ins like chopped apples, raisins, or nuts for added texture.
- Adjust the Spice: If you love a little zing, add more cinnamon or even some ginger for a spicier flavor profile.
- Correct Oven Temperature: Make sure your oven is fully preheated for even baking.
Delicious Variations
- Glazed Donuts: Top with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the cooled donuts for an indulgent treat.
- Pumpkin Spice: Replace half of the apple cider with pumpkin puree for a fall twist.
- Nutty Topping: Add crushed nuts or make a streusel topping before baking for crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you may substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the texture may be slightly denser. -
What should I do if I don’t have a donut pan?
You can use a muffin pan as an alternative; just adjust the baking time since muffins will take longer to cook. -
Are these donuts suitable for a gluten-free diet?
You can use a gluten-free flour blend to make these donuts gluten-free; just make sure your baking powder is also gluten-free. -
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to bake the donuts immediately after mixing the batter for the best texture. However, you can prepare the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately and mix them right before baking. -
How do I know when they are done?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a donut; if it comes out clean, they are ready to be removed from the oven.
Conclusion
Baked Apple Cider Donuts are a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a cozy afternoon snack, they are simple to make and delicious to eat. With the warm spices and sweet apple cider, each bite is a taste of fall that will have everyone coming back for more. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to these delightful donuts today!
