Okay, maybe I’m a little early… but who isn’t ready for fall already? Pumpkin spice lattes, cozy sweaters, apple picking and of course, warm, cinnamon sugar coated cider donuts. Truly the elite trio of fall happiness.
There is just something magical about cider donuts. Soft, sweet, slightly spiced, and rolled in that dreamy cinnamon sugar coating they taste like crisp air and orchard mornings. The second you take a bite, you’re transported to apple picking season in places like Vermont or upstate New York, where fresh apple cider flows and the scent of sugar and spice fills the air.
But here’s the best part: you don’t have to wait for fall festivals to enjoy them. You can make them right at home and yes, you can make them a little healthier too.
What Makes Cider Donuts So Good?
The secret is reduced apple cider. Simmering apple cider until it concentrates deepens the flavor and gives the donuts that bold apple taste. Combined with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves, you get that signature cozy flavor in every bite.
The texture should be soft and tender inside with slightly crisp edges. And once they’re rolled in cinnamon sugar while still warm? Absolute perfection.
Bake or Fry — You Choose
Traditional cider donuts are fried, which gives them that slightly crisp outer edge. But if you’re looking for a lighter option, baking them in a donut pan works beautifully.
Baked cider donuts:
Are lighter and less oily
Require no frying mess
Still deliver that soft cake-like texture
Are perfect if you’re trying to keep things a little healthier
Once baked, brush them lightly with melted butter and toss them in cinnamon sugar. You’ll still get that iconic coating without deep frying.
If you want the full orchard experience, you can fry them but honestly, the baked version hits the spot while being easier and more approachable for everyday baking.
Pro Tips for the Best Cider Donuts
Always reduce your apple cider this is non-negotiable for flavor.
Don’t overmix the batter; you want tender donuts, not dense ones.
Coat them in cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm so it sticks perfectly.
Eat at least one fresh. Quality control, obviously.
There’s something about making cider donuts at home that just feels like fall is already here even if it’s still 85 degrees outside. Pair them with a homemade latte, light a fall candle, and pretend you’re at the orchard.
So yes, maybe we’re a little early… but honestly? Fall flavors don’t need permission.
Pour the apple cider into a small pot. Heat over medium until reduced down to 1 cup. Cool to room temperature and set aside.
Whisk together the flour, sugars, baking powder, salt, baking soda, and apple pie spice in a large bowl. Next add the 1 egg, melted butter, and cooled cider.
Fold the wet ingredients into the dry until just moistened, do not over beat and combine until you no longer see the flour. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate 30 minutes.
Turn your dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Roll into a 1/2 inch thickness and cut your donuts using a donut cutter or a round drinking glass.
Heat your oil and add the donuts, do not over crowd the pan. Cook the donuts 1-2 minutes on each side until lightly browned and cooked through.
Dip in cinnamon sugar mixture while still slightly warm.
Cinnamon sugar
Combine both ingredients in a bowl.
Notes
For apple pie seasoning substitute with 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
Don’t have a donut cutter? No problem! Just use a cup and small shot glass to create those perfect rounds.
For eggless donuts, replace the egg with 1/2 cup of apple sauce.
To bake them: place on a non stick baking sheet and bake at 350 for 12-15 mins.
To air fry them: place them in the air fryer basket without over crowding and air fry at 350 for 10-12 mins.
You can replace all purpose flour with whole wheat or gluten free as well.
Prep Time:20
Cook Time:15
Category:Dessert
Cuisine:American
Keywords: apple cider donuts, cider donuts, donuts
Just an East/West coast girl living the southern life. I love sharing all my tested and perfected recipes here, along with some travel guides and a little bit of my lifestyle
