Donuts are my jam. I just love them so much but unfortunately they are a treat that is few and far between for this family – that is until I started making my own homemade donuts.

My kids absolutely love it when I make donuts. They go crazy and a dozen never lasts more than a couple hours in our house. Sometimes they even get eaten before I am able to add a topping or glaze to them.

I still do love my original glazed Krispy Kreme donuts but there is not a donut shop anywhere near us. Seriously, sometimes I feel so deprived because there is just so little in our little town. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love our little town but it does kind of get annoying to have to drive so far sometimes just to go to a good restaurant or get some of the favorite treats that I grew up with on every street corner.

Fortunately, this situation is only temporary and we will eventually be moving back to a bigger-ish city. Hopefully. At least that’s the plan.

Anyway, since it’s beginning to get cooler outside with the arrival of fall and apple cider being all over the store shelves recently, I thought it would be a good idea to make an apple cider donut. We just introduced our youngest to apple cider (which she affectionately calls apple spider) and she was in love at first sip.

So why not take that and make it into a donut?

These gorgeous apple cider donuts are perfect on their own without anything but I also made an apple cider caramel glaze to go with them and it just takes them over the top!

The glaze really adds to that apple cider flavor and the soft fluffiness of the donut just makes these the perfect weekend treat. Or weekday treat… whichever.

What are Apple Cider Donuts?

Apple cider donuts have a storied history, originating in the northeastern United States where apple orchards abound. Traditionally enjoyed during the fall harvest, these donuts are infused with the sweet and tangy flavor of apple cider, making them a beloved treat at autumn festivals and fairs. Their unique taste and texture set them apart from other donuts, offering a delightful balance of spice and sweetness.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

This apple cider donut recipe stands out for its use of both white whole wheat and all-purpose flour, creating a perfect balance of health and indulgence. The addition of ground cinnamon and nutmeg infuses the donuts with warm, aromatic spices, while the caramel glaze adds a luxurious touch. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress.

Ingredients

• White Whole Wheat Flour & All-Purpose Flour: These flours provide a balanced texture, combining the hearty, nutty flavor of whole wheat with the lightness of all-purpose flour, resulting in a donut that is both tender and wholesome.
• Baking Powder: Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring the donuts rise perfectly and achieve a fluffy texture.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients, providing a subtle contrast to the sweetness.
• Ground Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices add warmth and depth, complementing the apple cider and creating a classic fall flavor profile.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the donuts, balancing the spices and enhancing the overall taste.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and moisture, contributing to the tender crumb of the donuts.
• Apple Cider: The star ingredient, infusing the donuts with a sweet and tangy apple flavor that is quintessentially autumnal.
• Honey: Adds a natural sweetness and a hint of floral notes, enhancing the complexity of flavors.
• Eggs: Provide structure and stability, ensuring the donuts hold together while remaining soft and moist.

Caramel Glaze

• Apple Cider: Intensifies the apple flavor in the glaze, creating a cohesive taste experience.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds a creamy richness to the glaze, balancing the sweetness.
• Light Brown Sugar: Provides a deep, molasses-like sweetness that complements the apple cider.
• Heavy Cream: Contributes to the smooth, velvety texture of the glaze.
• Corn Starch: Thickens the glaze, ensuring it adheres beautifully to the donuts.

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Substitutions & Additions

For those with dietary restrictions, consider substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can also replace the granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness. If you prefer a spicier donut, increase the cinnamon and nutmeg to taste.

How to Make this Recipe

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and preparing your donut pan with nonstick spray.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flours, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar.

Add the melted butter, apple cider, honey, and eggs, mixing until just combined.

Pour the batter into a piping bag and pipe into the prepared pan.

Bake for 8-10 minutes, then let the donuts cool completely on a rack.

Caramel Glaze

In a saucepan over medium-high heat, boil the apple cider until reduced by half.

Add the butter, brown sugar, and cream, continuing to boil for another 10 minutes. Remove from heat, whisk in the cornstarch, and let cool.

Dip the cooled donuts into the warm glaze and serve immediately.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use fresh apple cider and high-quality spices. When making the glaze, ensure the apple cider is properly reduced to concentrate its flavor. If the glaze is too thick, add a splash of cream to reach the desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these donuts warm with a cup of hot apple cider or coffee. They also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Storage Suggestions

Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze the donuts without the glaze and add it after thawing.

Recipe FAQ

Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?

Yes, you can use a muffin tin instead, though the shape will differ.

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

While possible, apple cider provides a more robust flavor.

How can I make the glaze thicker?

Add more cornstarch or reduce the cider further.

These apple cider donuts are a celebration of fall’s finest flavors, offering a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed with family or shared with friends, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite.