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Crispy Apple Cider Donuts: Best Easy Recipe

crispy apple cider donuts - featured image

Baked apple cider donuts coated in cinnamon sugar that capture the essence of autumn without the need for deep frying. These donuts are soft on the inside, crisp on the outside, and ready in under 45 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups unsweetened apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan.
  2. Pour 2 cups of apple cider into a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until reduced to 1/2 cup syrupy consistency.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; let cool completely.
  5. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
  6. In a separate large bowl, whisk eggs and 3/4 cup sugar until combined.
  7. Add melted butter and cooled reduced cider to the egg mixture; whisk until smooth.
  8. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and fold with a spatula until just combined.
  9. Spoon batter into donut cavities, filling each three-quarters full.
  10. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  11. While donuts bake, mix 1 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
  12. Cool donuts in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  13. Roll warm donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture and serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure the cider is reduced to a syrupy consistency to concentrate flavor. Do not overmix the batter to avoid tough donuts. Use room temperature eggs for better incorporation. If using a muffin tin, cut out centers after baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider donuts, baked donuts, cinnamon sugar donuts, fall recipes, easy donut recipe, autumn baking