Apple Cider Donuts are a cozy, irresistible treat that brings the flavors of fall to life. These soft, spiced donuts are infused with the warm, comforting taste of apple cider, making them the perfect way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re enjoying them on a crisp autumn morning or serving them at a harvest gathering, apple cider donuts are sure to be a crowd-pleaser with their tender texture, aromatic spices, and slightly sweet glaze.
The magic of apple cider donuts lies in the way the cider reduces into a concentrated syrup, which intensifies its natural sweetness and adds a distinct, fruity flavor to the batter. Combined with a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, the dough is full of warm, autumnal spices that make each bite feel like a cozy hug. The donuts are typically fried or baked to golden perfection, with a slightly crisp exterior and a soft, fluffy interior that’s perfect for dunking into a cup of hot cider or coffee.
To enhance the flavor, many recipes call for rolling the freshly fried or baked donuts in a cinnamon-sugar mixture. This simple step adds an extra layer of sweetness and spice, making each donut even more delightful. For a special touch, drizzle a light glaze over the top or dust with powdered sugar for a festive finish. These donuts can be enjoyed fresh out of the fryer or baked for a slightly lighter version, but either way, they’re a delicious treat.
Apple Cider Donuts are incredibly versatile. While they’re traditionally served as a breakfast or brunch treat, they’re also perfect for fall parties, harvest festivals, or as a homemade gift for friends and family. They pair beautifully with a warm cup of apple cider, coffee, or even hot chocolate, making them a must-have for fall gatherings.
These donuts are a celebration of the season, combining the sweetness of apples with aromatic spices for a flavorful, festive snack that feels both indulgent and comforting. Whether baked or fried, Apple Cider Donuts are a perfect treat to enjoy on a crisp autumn day.
Ingredients
- 2 cup apple cider reduced to 1/2 cup
- 2 cup flour all-purpose
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp allspice
- 1/4 tsp clove ground
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup sugar granulated
- 1/2 cup brown sugar packed
- 2 eggs large
- 6 tbsp butter melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- For rolling cinnamon sugar ⅓ cup sugar + 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to about 1/2 cup. Set aside to cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, clove, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and cooled apple cider reduction.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Stir in the milk until the batter is smooth.
- Fill the donut pan cavities about 3/4 full with batter.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean.
- Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- While warm, roll the donuts in cinnamon sugar mixture until coated.
Nutrition
I think I did something wrong—my batter was super thick and the donuts didn’t rise much. Could be the milk measurement? Still edible.
Five stars. Period. 🍩
Delicious! I used apple juice instead of cider by accident and they were still good. 😋
Yummy! But can you make these without eggs? My friend is allergic.
I followed the recipe and they didn’t get as fluffy as I expected. Could be I overmixed a little. Flavor is nice, but texture felt kinda dense—still ate them all lol.
Ugh that dense texture is so annoying—sounds like maybe the batter got mixed a bit too much or the flour got packed. I’ve also had them turn out less fluffy if the apple cider reduction is still warm.
These smelled like fall the second the cider hit the kitchen. Super fluffy and the cinnamon sugar coating is perfect—not too sweet. Will make again for sure!
These donuts are amazing! So fluffy and delicious. My kids loved them!
I totally agree! These donuts are a hit in my house too! Can’t wait to make them again.
These donuts are amazing! So moist and flavorful. Definitely making them again this fall!
Piece of cake! Easy to make and tasted great. Definitely a keeper!
I love apple cider anything, so I was excited. But reducing cider to 1/2 cup took longer than expected. After that, though, the donuts were tasty and smelled amazing.
Way too much spice for my taste—clove + allspice felt like it punched me. Still tasty, just not “cozy” for me.
These donuts were amazing! The flavors just burst in your mouth!
I agree! These donuts were like a hug for my taste buds! 😊
How do you reduce apple cider? Just boil it or something? Not sure if I got it right.
I didn’t have a donut pan so I used a muffin tin. Still turned out good! Not what I expected but great! 😊
Ok, but what if I used pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon? Would they still be good???
I think pumpkin spice could work, but it might taste different. Not sure if it will be better 😅.
YUMMY! Perfect for fall. I used pumpkin cider instead of apple. Still turned out tasty!
Made these for a party and everyone loved ’em! They were gone in no time.
I’m glad to hear that! These donuts are a crowd-pleaser for sure. Did you make any changes to the recipe?
Too much sugar for my liking. Felt like I was eating candy, not donuts.
Way too many spices for me personally (clove + allspice felt a bit punchy). If you love fall-forward flavors, you’ll probably be happy.
Totally agree—clove + allspice can get super intense. I’d probably cut both in half next time and keep the cinnamon.
I actually love that “fall” spice punch 😄 The clove makes it taste like actual cider donuts from the orchard.
I don’t have a donut pan, so I used a muffin tin. They were okay, but more like spiced muffins than donuts—still got eaten fast.
Honestly, I didn’t reduce the cider enough (got distracted) and they tasted more like apple drink and less like real cider donuts. Learn from me 😅
How many donuts does this recipe actually make? Seems like it might be too few.
I think it should make about a dozen! Depends on the size of your donut pan though. Just measure it out!
I dunno, looks like it might only make 6 or so. I like my donuts big and fluffy, not small.
Too much work! And why do I have to reduce cider? Just get apple juice! Simple is better.
I get what you mean! But the cider reduction really brings out the flavor. It might be worth the extra effort! 🍏
My kitchen smelled like a candle store. I used dark brown sugar too and it made them taste richer. Would make again.
Took me forever to reduce the cider. Is it really necessary? My donuts turned out dry.
Honestly, the ingredient list looks solid. The donut shape matters though—bake time depends a lot on your pan. Mine were done right at 10.
These came out super fluffy and the cinnamon smell while baking was amazing. I reduced the cider exactly like it says and it really makes a difference!
Eww, these don’t taste like donuts should! More like cake than a donut.
Not bad, but mine came out a little dense, I think I overmixed. Also my clove flavor was strong at first bite—still tasty with extra cinnamon sugar.
I’ve definitely had that happen when I “just keep stirring” 😅 Next time I’m watching for just-combined and stopping.
Dense donuts are usually overmixing or too much flour. Did you measure the flour by scooping? Also—clove can be strong if it’s not evenly distributed.
Very good, but maybe a bit sweet. Could cut down on the sugar next time.
Wow I never made donuts before, but these are so easy! Gonna make them again!
I tried to make these but totally forgot the eggs. They turned out like rocks. 😩
These donuts are to die for! My kids couldn’t get enough. 🍩❤️
These donuts are amazing! The apple cider flavor is perfect. Soft and fluffy. Will definitely make again! 🥳
Absolutely loved it! My family devoured them in minutes.
Why does it need milk? I substituted buttermilk and it got weirdly tangy—still good though. Maybe I messed the ratio.
Doesn’t need that much sugar! I’m doing low carb and this is way too sweet. How can I make it healthier?
My donut pan didn’t really cooperate—stuck a little even though I greased it. The batter flavor was great, just presentation was messy.
I don’t know. Seemed too sweet for my taste, but others liked it. 🤷♂️
I get what you mean! I think it’s all about personal preference. Some like it sweeter, but those spices are bomb! 🍏🍩
1/4 tsp clove + allspice + nutmeg… that’s a lot of spice for me. I liked it, but it was kinda strong. Next time I’d cut the clove in half. Still a solid donut.
Can you use apple juice instead of cider? Would they still taste good?
I don’t get why everyone loves these so much. They tasted kinda bland to me. Maybe I did something wrong…
I think they need a bit more cinnamon or maybe a glaze to really pop! It’s not you, it’s the recipe! 🤔
Best fall recipe ever! 🍁🍩
Looks great, but can you really taste the apple cider? I dunno, sounds kinda gimmicky.
Totally agree! These donuts are to die for. 🍩 I made them last weekend, and everyone loved them!
Pretty good, but mine were a little dense. I probably overmixed since I was rushing. Next time I’ll be gentler.
Y’all this is just like my grandma used to make, I’m so happy I found this recipe. Thank you! ❤️
Donuts from scratch? Sounds hard, but I managed! They weren’t perfect, but still good!
Not gonna lie I was skeptical about reducing apple cider, but it made them taste way more apple-y than regular donuts. 10/10 would bake again.
Wait… baking them instead of frying?! I’m intrigued. If I do this, I might try reducing it even more for stronger flavor—like to 1/3 cup.
I had the same worry—reduced cider can be hit or miss. Glad it worked for you! Makes sense it would concentrate the apple flavor.
I was worried about the spices (clove especially), but it ended up balanced. The texture is great—tender with a nice crumb. Yum.
Yes!! I was the same about clove—halfway through I was like “oh no” 😅 But your comment makes me feel better. The crumb/tenderness is the best part.
I tried this recipe but mine came out too dry. What did I do wrong?
Sounds like you might have overbaked them! Try reducing the baking time a minute or two next time.
Maybe your measurements were off? I always use a scale for precision.
Cider donuts? I thought we were making bagels, not sweet treats? But they ain’t half bad. Not my go-to tho.
These came out perfectly spiced and not too sweet. The apple cider reduction really makes a difference—my kitchen smelled like fall all day.
Mmmm… donut!!! 🍩
These are legit better than the store ones I usually grab. I added a tiny pinch more cinnamon in the batter and it was perfect.
Yum! These went so quickly at my party! Everyone asked for the recipe.
This recipe is kinda confusing—how do you know the batter is smooth if you’re not overmixing? I ended up with lumps. Taste was alright but I’m not sure I’d redo it.
Mine stuck to the pan even though I greased it. Maybe I needed more butter/oil in the wells. Taste was great though.
Mine didn’t stick, but I used shortening spray instead of just butter. Also I waited longer to move them—like 10 mins in the pan—then they popped out easy. Maybe your batter was a bit thick too?
Ugh, that’s frustrating! I’ve noticed these can stick if the pan isn’t *fully* greased—like you really want a thin but even coat in every groove. Next time I’d try butter *and* a little oil, and don’t underbake (they pull weird when still too soft). Glad the flavor still hit though!
Not gonna lie, I overmixed a bit and they were slightly tough. But once rolled in cinnamon sugar, they disappeared anyway.
I don’t know, they turned out pretty bland. Maybe I did something wrong?
Pretty good overall, but mine were a little dense. I think I may have overmixed the batter even though the recipe said not to—my bad. Still tasted great with the cinnamon sugar.
OMG, these are like apple heaven! My kids love them. I’ll be making a double batch next time!
I dunno, I tried making these but the texture was off, kinda dense. Anyone else have that problem? What did I do wrong?
Absolutely love this recipe! My family can’t get enough of these. Gonna try it with my own twist next time, maybe add some berries!
I forgot the brown sugar and they still tasted great! Very versatile recipe.
I’m not into the spices. Next time I’ll leave them out. Too much nutmeg for my taste.
Spices make it! You should give them a second chance. Maybe try just a pinch next time?
These are AMAZING. Like fall in donut form. Five stars ⭐
Delicious! I added some walnuts too. Made it even better!!
Walnuts sound like a great addition! I’ll have to try that next time.
Not convinced. 1 cup of milk seems like a lot for donuts, and mine looked too runny before baking. Also 350°F for 10-12 mins felt short—maybe my oven runs cold.
The batter was thick—almost like cookie dough. Not sure if my eggs were smaller? Donuts still cooked but texture was different than expected.
That sounds like it could be an egg-size or measurement issue. If the eggs were smaller or you used a slightly thicker milk/flour ratio, the batter can turn more cookie-dough-ish. Next time try adding 1–2 extra tablespoons of milk if it looks too thick before filling the pan.
Huh, mine always comes out thicker than cake batter but still not *cookie dough*. Did you reduce the apple cider all the way to 1/2 cup? If it was even a little under-reduced, it shouldn’t get thick though… unless the cider cooled and got kinda gel-y? Also, overmixing can make it tough.
Why is everything in cups? Do we really all bake in cups now? Can’t even measure right.
Not bad, but I think they turned out a bit dense. Might need to mix the batter less?
Yeah, I found them a bit chewy too. Maybe less mixing or a slightly shorter baking time could help?
Idk, mine came out fine. I mixed it a lot and they were fluffy. Maybe you’re just doing it wrong? 🤷♂️
Too many spices for my liking. I prefer my apple cider plain!
I love apple cider but donuts? Nah. Tried it and will stick to regular ones. Too much apple for me.
Wasn’t sure about the spices, but they actually turned out pretty good. Nice autumn flavor 🙂
I’m glad you liked it! The spices really do bring out the flavors, especially in fall! 🍏🍩
These came out super moist and the spice blend is spot on. The cider reduction really makes a difference—won’t skip that step again!
Absolutely delicious! I added some chopped apples to the mix for extra sweetness. Yum! 🍏🍩
Followed the steps and they browned nicely. However, I think 10 minutes was short for my pan, mine needed closer to 14.
I’m usually skeptical about donut recipes in a regular oven, but wow—works. The cinnamon sugar coating actually stuck well too.
Yes!! I’m always worried donuts won’t get that real texture in an oven, but this sounds like it nails it. The reduction tip is genius.
These donuts are amazing! So fluffy and full of flavor. I will definitely make them again!
Followed the recipe mostly, but my cider reduction took longer than expected. Still delicious though. I’d maybe reduce the milk a splash next time if the batter seems too loose.
Eh, my kids didn’t like them. They said they taste like cardboard. I dunno, I thought they were okay. 😕
Donuts!! 🍩🍩🍩 Love them, easy to follow.
Yum! Can’t wait to try these at home. I love that they’re baked too! 🍏🍩
Sounds good, but why not just buy them at the store? They do the same thing, right?
10/10 would make again! Quick note: I let the cider cool longer than the recipe said and it helped the batter not get weird.
I followed the recipe pretty closely. However, my donuts took more like 14 minutes in my oven, so I’d watch them. Still delicious!
These donuts are delicious! So fluffy and full of flavor. I made them for my family, and they disappeared quickly!
So I tried these and they turned out more like muffins. Not a fan of the texture. Maybe I overmixed? 🤷♂️
Great recipe! But why do I need 2 different sugars? Can’t I just use one? Seems like extra work for not much payoff.
I dunno, it sounds kinda complicated. Can’t I just throw in whatever sugar I have? Seems silly to have all these specific ingredients.
Using both sugars adds a depth of flavor! The brown sugar gives moisture and a slight caramel taste, while granulated sugar helps with sweetness. Trust me, it’s worth it!
I just want to say these are the best donuts I’ve ever made! Way better than store bought! 🌟
I was skeptical about the apple cider ingredient. Just stick to applesauce next time.
350°F seems low? I baked mine and they looked done at 10 min but the center was slightly gummy. Might be my oven though. Flavor is good.
These came out AMAZING. The apple cider reduction really makes them taste bakery-level. I baked mine 11 minutes and the centers were perfect—crispy outside, soft inside.
Yes!! I love when the cider reduction actually tastes like fall. Nice call on 11 minutes too—mine were also perfect right around there.
Bakery-level without frying?! 🤔 I’m impressed but I’m also wondering—did you use a donut pan or a mini muffin tray? My first batch cooked uneven.
The nutmeg/clove combo is strong (in a good way). I was nervous about too much spice, but it balanced nicely with the cider.
Why bake donuts when you could just fry them? I feel like this is missing the classic texture. That said, the flavor is solid.
Pretty good, but I think my spices were a bit heavy (I accidentally used extra clove 😅). Still delicious though—definitely gives that fall vibe. Next time I’ll measure more carefully.
Oh no extra clove happens 😂 Glad it still tasted good though! These really are super “fall.” I bet your donut version smelled amazing.
I’ve done that with nutmeg before—ends up tasting like the inside of a holiday candle 😅 But honestly, if you like it, clove can be a feature.
Not gonna lie, 6 tbsp melted butter plus 1 cup milk feels like it could be too much liquid? Mine spread a bit in the pan. Flavor is good, but texture was off.
Wow! Easy and super tasty. I don’t even have fancy measuring stuff and it worked out. 10/10 would make again. Also the cinnamon sugar is the move.
I followed it pretty closely, but I think I underbaked mine by like 2 minutes—still tasty though. Next time I’ll aim for the toothpick clean part more strictly.
These turned out so cozy—cinnamon flavor is on point and the apple cider reduction actually makes a difference. Perfectly fluffy too.
Quick question: do you cool the cider reduction all the way or just “cool enough”? I maybe rushed it and my batter got weirdly thick.
I tried it without reducing the cider (I know… bad). They still tasted okay, but nowhere near the same—more like apple-flavored spice muffins.