Craving a sweet treat that bursts with fall flavor? Look no further! My easy and delicious Apple Cider Glazed Donuts are sure to delight your taste buds. In this recipe, I’ll walk you through each simple step, from mixing the batter to glazing the warm donuts. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy snack at home, these donuts are a must-try. Ready to make your kitchen smell amazing? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Main ingredients for Apple Cider Glazed Donuts
To make these tasty apple cider glazed donuts, you need a few key items. Here are the main ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1/2 cup apple cider
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients create a moist and flavorful donut. The apple cider gives a lovely taste that makes these treats special.
Ingredients for the glaze
The glaze is the best part! It adds sweetness and a nice shine. You will need:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix these together for a smooth glaze. It makes the donuts look and taste amazing!
Alternatives and modifications
You can change things up if you like. Here are some ideas:
- Use whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Swap apple cider with pumpkin puree for a fall twist.
- Try maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a different flavor.
- Add nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.
These alternatives keep the spirit of the recipe while letting you explore new flavors. Enjoy making these donuts your own!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the donut batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a donut pan and grease it with non-stick spray or butter. In a large bowl, mix the dry ingredients. Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk them together until they blend well. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients. Add 1/2 cup each of granulated sugar and packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce, 1/2 cup of apple cider, 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth. Now, add the wet mixture to the dry mixture. Stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the donuts tough.
Baking the donuts
Next, pour the batter into a piping bag or a large ziplock bag. Cut a corner off the bag. This will help you pipe the batter easily. Fill each cavity of the donut pan about 2/3 full. Bake the donuts for 10 to 12 minutes. They should spring back when lightly tapped. After baking, let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, transfer the donuts to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making and applying the glaze
While the donuts cool, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of apple cider, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix until it is smooth. Once your donuts are cool, dip the tops into the glaze. Let any excess glaze drip off. Place the glazed donuts back on the wire rack to set. Enjoy your sweet, apple cider glazed donuts!
Tips & Tricks
How to ensure perfect donut texture
To get the best texture, do not overmix your batter. Overmixing makes the donuts tough. Mix just until you see no dry flour. Use room temperature eggs for better mixing. This helps create a light, fluffy donut. Make sure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C) for even baking. Check your donuts after 10 minutes. They should spring back when tapped lightly.
Recommended tools and equipment
A donut pan is key for this recipe. It helps shape your donuts perfectly. You will also need a large mixing bowl and a whisk. A piping bag or a ziplock bag makes filling the pan easy. Lastly, have a wire rack ready for cooling and glazing. This setup will make your baking smooth and simple.
Troubleshooting common issues
If your donuts are too dense, you might have overmixed the batter. If they stick to the pan, ensure you grease it well before adding the batter. If your glaze is too runny, add more powdered sugar. For a thicker glaze, use less apple cider. If the donuts sink in the middle, check your baking powder and baking soda freshness. Always use fresh ingredients for the best results.

Variations
Different flavors or spices to try
You can switch up the flavors in your donuts. Try adding a dash of ginger for a warm kick. You can also mix in some pumpkin spice for a fall twist. If you love chocolate, add cocoa powder to the batter. For a fruity taste, try lemon zest or orange zest. Each flavor adds a new layer of fun.
Gluten-free or vegan alternatives
If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. This works well in the recipe. For a vegan version, swap eggs for flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed meal with three tablespoons of water, let it sit, and use it. Replace the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter. You can also use almond milk instead of apple cider for a unique taste.
Stuffed donut options
Stuffed donuts are a fun twist. You can fill them with your favorite jam, like raspberry or strawberry. Another option is to use a cream filling, such as vanilla or chocolate. To stuff the donuts, use a piping bag after they cool. Just poke a small hole in the side and squeeze in the filling. This adds a delightful surprise in every bite.
Storage Info
How to store leftover donuts
To keep your leftover donuts fresh, place them in an airtight container. Line the container with paper towels to absorb any moisture. This helps maintain their soft texture. Store them at room temperature for up to two days. If you want them to last longer, consider refrigerating them.
Best practices for reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover donuts, reheat them for the best taste. You can use the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This warms them up without making them tough. You can also warm them in a toaster oven for a few minutes. This method keeps the outside slightly crisp.
Freezing and thawing instructions
To freeze donuts, wrap each one in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you want to eat them, take them out and let them thaw at room temperature. For a warm treat, you can reheat them once they are thawed. Enjoy your delicious donuts!
FAQs
How long do Apple Cider Glazed Donuts last?
Apple Cider Glazed Donuts stay fresh for about three days at room temperature. Keep them in an airtight container. You can also store them in the fridge for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them. Wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. They will last for up to three months in the freezer.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the batter ahead of time. Just mix the dry and wet ingredients separately. Keep them in the fridge. Combine them when you are ready to bake. This way, you can enjoy fresh donuts quickly. Just remember not to let the batter sit too long before baking. It’s best to bake it within a day for the best texture.
Where can I buy Apple Cider Glazed Donuts?
You can find Apple Cider Glazed Donuts at many bakeries and coffee shops in the fall. Some grocery stores also carry them in their bakery section. If you want a special experience, check local farmers’ markets. They often have fresh, homemade options. You can also find unique flavors there. If you prefer, you can make them at home with this easy recipe. Enjoying homemade donuts is always a treat!
Making Apple Cider Glazed Donuts is easier than you think. We covered the main ingredients, glaze options, and some fun variations. With the right steps, tools, and tips, you can bake perfect donuts every time. Remember to store them well, and don’t hesitate to try new flavors. Whether you share them or keep them all to yourself, these donuts are a treat. Enjoy your baking adventure!


