These Apple Cider Donuts Vanish in Minutes – The Cozy Autumn Treat You’ll Crave All Year

There’s something unmistakably magical about the scent of warm apple cider mingling with cinnamon sugar on a crisp fall morning. These Apple Cider Donuts capture that very moment – the golden light streaming through the window, the crunch of fallen leaves underfoot, and the warm hug of comfort food made with love. From my own experience, every time we make these at home – especially when we have friends over or for a lazy Sunday breakfast – the entire kitchen fills with joy and an irresistible aroma that makes everyone gather around the oven.

What sets this recipe apart is the deep apple flavor that comes from reducing fresh apple cider until it’s rich and syrupy. These donuts are tender, perfectly spiced, and coated in a sweet, crunchy cinnamon-sugar mixture that makes them impossible to resist. Whether baked or fried, the result is pure autumn bliss.

Preparation Time

• Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

• Active prep time: 30 minutes

• Cooking/Baking time: 20–25 minutes

• Cooling and coating time: 15–20 minutes

Serves: 12–14 donuts
Difficulty: Medium

Let’s dive into the cozy magic of this recipe.

The Necessary Ingredients (possible in all kinds of variations)

Before we begin, I’ll note a few flexible options after the ingredient list for anyone who may be vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free – so don’t worry!

For the donuts:

• 2 cups fresh apple cider

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)

• 2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

• 1/2 tsp ground allspice

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled

• 1/2 cup buttermilk (or whole milk with 1 tsp vinegar)

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the cinnamon-sugar coating:

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

• 6 tbsp melted butter (for brushing or dipping)

Substitutions and Variations

Vegan version:

• Use plant-based butter and plant milk (like oat or almond).

• Replace eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water, rested for 10 minutes).

• Ensure sugar is vegan-certified (some are processed with bone char).

Gluten-free:

• Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum.

• Add an extra tablespoon of cider if dough feels too stiff.

Dairy-free:

• Use vegan butter and non-dairy milk like oat or soy.

• Substitute buttermilk with a mix of almond milk and lemon juice or vinegar.

Now that we’ve prepped everything, let’s get ready to bring these heavenly donuts to life.

The Steps of Preparation (possible in all kinds of variations)

Making these donuts is a satisfying experience. The dough is soft and fragrant, and shaping the donuts feels like a joyful throwback to baking days with family. You can fry them traditionally, bake them in donut pans, or even air fry them for a lighter touch!

Let’s get started:

1. Pour the apple cider into a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and let it cook until it reduces to about 1/2 cup. This may take 20–25 minutes. Let it cool completely.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

3. In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the melted butter, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and reduced apple cider. Stir until smooth.

4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry until a sticky dough forms. The dough should be soft but manageable – chill it for 30 minutes if it feels too loose.

5. Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.

6. Use a donut cutter (or a round cutter and a smaller one for the center) to cut out the donuts and holes.

7. For frying: Heat 2–3 inches of oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry donuts in batches for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

8. For baking: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place donuts in greased donut pans and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

9. For air fryer: Preheat air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Spray basket with oil and cook donuts for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway.

10. While still warm, brush or dip donuts in melted butter, then toss generously in cinnamon sugar.

Nutritional Benefits

• Apples (via cider) provide antioxidants that support heart health and reduce inflammation.

• Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar and has powerful antimicrobial properties.

• Nutmeg and allspice offer trace minerals and may improve digestion.

• Using baked or air-fried methods reduces fat and lowers calorie content.

• Eggs and buttermilk add protein and B vitamins to the recipe.

• Homemade donuts avoid preservatives and artificial ingredients found in store-bought versions.

After you’ve enjoyed these fresh, warm donuts, you might find yourself dreaming of even more ways to enjoy them. Here are some creative upgrades.

Possible Additions or Upgrades

• Add finely diced apple chunks to the dough for bursts of texture.

• Mix a bit of maple syrup into the batter for a deeper autumnal sweetness.

• Drizzle the donuts with salted caramel for an indulgent twist.

• Use chai spice instead of just cinnamon for a spiced-up version.

• Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough for crunch.

• Serve with a mug of hot apple cider or spiced tea on the side.

• Turn leftovers into an apple cider donut bread pudding!

And now, to help you get everything just right – or if you’re curious about different ways to enjoy or store these – here are some helpful tips and answers to common questions.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made up to 24 hours ahead and stored in the fridge. Just cover it well.

How do I store leftover donuts?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5.

Can I freeze these donuts?
Absolutely. Freeze them (uncoated) for up to 2 months. Reheat and coat before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat them?
Use a toaster oven or air fryer at 300°F for 3–5 minutes to keep them crisp.

Can I make mini donuts with this recipe?
Yes, just reduce the baking/frying time by half for smaller sizes.

Why reduce the apple cider?
Reducing the cider concentrates its flavor, giving the donuts a rich, authentic apple taste.

Is it better to bake or fry?
Frying gives the classic donut texture, but baking or air frying are healthier and still delicious.

What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?
Mix whole milk with 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I make these donuts without a donut cutter?
Yes, use a round glass and a bottle cap or piping tip for the center hole.

What if I don’t have apple cider?
You can use unfiltered apple juice, but reduce it the same way to concentrate the flavor.

These donuts are a true comfort in edible form. If you give them a try – and I really hope you do – please share your creations! Post them on Instagram, tag your friends, send them to your family group chat, or save them for your next cozy brunch. This recipe deserves to be loved and passed around.

Let’s spread the cider-sugar joy, one donut at a time.