Apple Cider Donuts are a delightful treat that combines the warm, cozy flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with the crisp sweetness of apple cider. These donuts are soft on the inside with a lightly spiced, crisp coating on the outside, making them the perfect snack for fall or any time you want a little taste of apple orchard magic at home.
I love making these donuts fresh on a cool weekend morning when the house fills with the scent of baked apples and spice. What I find especially fun is dipping them right after frying in a cinnamon sugar mixture, which adds that extra sweet crunch that everyone seems to crave. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to whip up, so I often find myself reaching for this recipe when I want something special but not too complicated.
My favorite way to enjoy apple cider donuts is with a hot cup of tea or a big mug of coffee, but honestly, they’re so good you could eat them plain and still be totally happy. They also make a fantastic gift or unexpected treat for friends and family—each bite feels like a little celebration of autumn flavors and simple joys.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Cider: Reducing the cider concentrates its flavor and sweetness. If you don’t have apple cider, unsweetened apple juice works too. Just reduce it the same way to get that rich taste.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are must-haves for that classic warm flavor. Cloves are optional but add a nice depth if you like. You can swap ground allspice if you don’t have cloves.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives structure without being too dense. For a gluten-free option, try a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour, but the texture might be a bit different.
Oil for Frying: Use a neutral oil like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil with a high smoke point. This helps the donuts cook evenly and get crispy without burning.
How Can I Get Soft, Light Donuts with a Crunchy Cinnamon Sugar Coating?
The secret to soft donuts with a crispy coating is in the frying and the cinnamon sugar toss. Here’s what to focus on:
- Oil temperature: Keep your oil steady at 350°F (175°C). Too hot and the donuts burn outside but stay raw inside; too cool and they absorb oil and turn greasy.
- Donut dough: Gently mix the dough to avoid overworking. Overmixing can make the donuts tough.
- Frying time: Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Flip carefully to keep their shape.
- Coating: Roll warm donuts immediately in cinnamon sugar. The warmth helps the sugar stick well, creating that tasty crunchy layer.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Heavy pot or deep fryer – keeps oil at a steady temperature for even frying.
- Thermometer – helps you monitor oil temperature to avoid burning or soggy donuts.
- Donut cutter or 2 round cutters – makes cutting uniform donuts and holes easy.
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer – lifts donuts from oil safely and drains well.
- Mixing bowls – for combining your wet and dry ingredients smoothly.
- Cooling rack – lets donuts cool evenly and stay crisp without getting soggy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add ground ginger or cardamom for a spicier twist that plays well with the apple cider flavor.
- Mix in finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture contrast.
- Swap cinnamon sugar coating for a simple powdered sugar dusting to lighten the sweetness.
- Try adding a splash of maple syrup to the dough for a richer, cozy flavor on chilly days.
How to Make Apple Cider Donuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Donuts:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup apple cider, reduced to about 1/2 cup (to concentrate flavor)
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For The Coating:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Time Needed
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, including reducing the apple cider, plus 20-30 minutes to cut, fry, and coat the donuts. Overall, you should plan for about 40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Reduce the Apple Cider:
Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Let it cook down until it reduces to about 1/2 cup. This intensifies the flavor and thickens the cider. Once reduced, set it aside to cool before using.
2. Make the Donut Dough:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and salt. In another bowl, beat the egg with the sugar until light and fluffy. Add the melted butter, vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction. Mix everything well. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep your donuts tender.
3. Shape and Cut the Donuts:
Flour a clean surface lightly and transfer the dough onto it. Gently knead the dough a few times until smooth. Roll it out to about half an inch thick. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (about 3 inches for the donut and 1 inch for the center hole) to cut out the donuts and the holes. Save the scraps to reroll and cut more donuts.
4. Fry the Donuts:
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the donuts and donut holes into the hot oil in batches (don’t overcrowd!). Fry each side for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Coat and Serve:
While the donuts are still warm, toss them in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon until they are fully coated. Serve them warm or at room temperature with your favorite hot drink.
Can I Use Frozen Apple Cider for This Recipe?
Yes! Just thaw it completely and reduce it as instructed to concentrate the flavor. This step is key to getting that rich apple taste in your donuts.
How Should I Store Leftover Apple Cider Donuts?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, warm them briefly in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying These Donuts?
You can bake them for a lighter option, but the texture will be different — less crispy on the outside. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
What’s the Best Oil for Frying These Donuts?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil. This helps the donuts fry evenly without burning or absorbing too much oil.
