11 Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts

The Magic of Apple Cider in Doughnuts

fluffy apple cider doughnuts

Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts are fluffy, spiced treats perfect for autumn, bringing together the delicious flavors of apple cider and warm cinnamon sugar.

They require about 1 hour of total preparation and cooking time, and are of moderate difficulty—ideal for those with some baking experience looking to impress family and friends.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Start by simmering the apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until reduced to about 1 cup (approximately 15-20 minutes). Let cool.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. In another bowl, combine the sugars, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and reduced apple cider. Mix until well blended.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  5. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2 inch thick and cut out doughnuts using a doughnut cutter or two round cookie cutters.
  6. Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Fry the doughnuts in batches until golden brown on each side, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  8. In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon for coating. Once doughnuts are slightly cooled, coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful taste of autumn!
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Choosing the Right Ingredients

seasonal fall doughnut recipe

Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts are a delightful seasonal treat that encapsulates the flavors of fall. With a preparation time of about 1 hour and a moderate difficulty level, these fluffy and spiced doughnuts are perfect for those who enjoy baking and want to wow their family and friends with a homemade dessert.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Oil for frying
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Simmer the apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until reduced to about 1 cup, then let it cool.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the sugars, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the reduced apple cider, mixing until well combined.
  4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
  5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/2 inch thickness and cut out doughnuts.
  6. Heat oil in a deep fryer to 375°F (190°C) and fry the doughnuts until golden brown on each side, about 1-2 minutes.
  7. Drain the fried doughnuts on paper towels and mix granulated sugar with cinnamon for coating.
  8. Once slightly cooled, coat the doughnuts in the cinnamon-sugar mixture and serve warm.
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Preparing the Perfect Doughnut Batter

fluffy seasonal doughnut batter

Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts are a comforting and seasonal dessert that highlight the exquisite tastes of fall. With a preparation time of about 1 hour and a moderate difficulty level, this recipe will guide you through making a deliciously fluffy doughnut batter that’s perfect for frying.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Steps:

  1. Begin by reducing the apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens down to about 1 cup. Allow it to cool before using.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined.
  3. In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced apple cider until smooth.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined and ensuring not to overmix.
  5. Once the batter is ready, you can proceed with rolling out and cutting the doughnuts using a doughnut cutter for the next steps of frying and coating.
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The Role of Cinnamon in Flavor

cinnamon infused apple cider doughnuts

Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts are a delightful treat that captures the flavors of fall, prominently featuring cinnamon, a spice renowned for its warm, aromatic sweetness.

With a preparation time of approximately 30 minutes and a beginner-friendly difficulty level, this recipe showcases how cinnamon enhances the classic doughnut experience, especially when paired with the rich apple cider.

Ingredients:

  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter (for glazing)
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for additional glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a shallow bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, mixing well to create the cinnamon-sugar coating.
  2. Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
  3. After frying the doughnuts until golden brown, remove them from the oil and immediately coat each doughnut in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while still warm, ensuring an even layer.
  4. For the glaze, whisk together the melted butter, powdered sugar, and milk in a separate bowl until smooth and creamy.
  5. Dip the tops of the coated doughnuts into the glaze or drizzle it over the doughnuts as desired. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
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How to Shape Your Doughnuts

delicious autumn doughnut recipe

Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts are a delicious autumn treat that’s perfect for enjoying with a warm cup of apple cider. This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and is suitable for beginners who want to try their hand at making homemade doughnuts.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
  2. In a separate bowl, combine the apple cider, granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
  3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
  4. Preheat your doughnut pan according to the manufacturer’s instructions and lightly grease it with cooking spray.
  5. Transfer the doughnut batter to a piping bag or a zip-top bag with the corner cut off, then pipe the batter into the prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the doughnuts spring back when touched.
  7. Let them cool for a few minutes in the pan, then carefully remove the doughnuts and place them on a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.
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Frying vs. Baking: Which Method to Choose?

frying offers traditional texture

Frying vs. Baking: Which Method to Choose?

Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts can be easily made either by frying or baking. Frying gives the doughnuts a traditional texture and flavor, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, pillowy interior.

Baking, on the other hand, is a quicker and healthier alternative, requiring less oil and offering a lighter doughnut. This recipe focuses on the frying method, providing a rich, indulgent doughnut experience that takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare and is suitable for those at an intermediate cooking skill level.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together the apple cider, granulated sugar, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
  3. Combine the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just incorporated; avoid overmixing.
  4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to about 375°F (190°C).
  5. Using a spoon or cookie cutter, cut out doughnut shapes from the batter, or pipe them directly into the hot oil.
  6. Fry the doughnuts in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  7. Remove the cooked doughnuts with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels.
  8. Allow the doughnuts to cool slightly before glazing or rolling in cinnamon-sugar.
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Creating the Glossy Glaze

glossy glaze enhances doughnuts

Creating a glossy glaze for your Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts will elevate their flavor and appearance, giving them a sweet, shiny finish that complements the soft, spiced dough.

This simple glaze takes approximately 10 minutes to prepare and is suitable for all skill levels, making it a quick addition to your delicious doughnuts.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a medium bowl, sift the powdered sugar to remove any lumps for a smoother glaze.
  2. Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the powdered sugar.
  3. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and glossy; if the glaze is too thick, add an additional tablespoon of apple cider to reach your desired consistency.
  4. Dip the warm doughnuts into the glaze, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  5. Place the glazed doughnuts on a wire rack to set for a few minutes before serving.
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Rolling in Cinnamon-Sugar: Tips for Coating

cinnamon sugar doughnut coating

Rolling in Cinnamon-Sugar for your Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts adds an irresistible crispy and sweet layer that perfectly enhances the flavorful dough.

This final touch takes about 5 minutes to prepare and is easy enough for beginners, making your doughnuts even more delightful.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • Warm glazed doughnuts

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a shallow bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until well combined.
  2. Once the doughnuts are glazed and have just a hint of warmth, carefully roll each doughnut in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
  3. Make sure to coat the doughnuts evenly, ensuring every bite is sweet and spiced.
  4. Place the coated doughnuts back on a wire rack to let the cinnamon-sugar set before serving.

Enjoy your delicious treats!

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Serving Suggestions and Pairings

cinnamon sugar doughnut pairings

Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.

With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a beginner-friendly difficulty level, these doughnuts can be enjoyed in various ways.

Pair them with a warm beverage or serve them as a dessert for a festive gathering.

Ingredients:

  • Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts
  • Fresh apple slices or wedges
  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream
  • Hot apple cider or spiced coffee
  • Chopped nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts), for garnish
  • Caramel sauce or chocolate drizzle (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Choose your beverage: Select a warm drink like hot apple cider or spiced coffee to complement the flavors of the doughnuts.
  2. Plate the doughnuts: Arrange the glazed doughnuts on a serving platter, ensuring they are beautifully displayed.
  3. Add fresh fruit: Serve with fresh apple slices or wedges to enhance the apple flavor and add a revitalizing element.
  4. Include a dip or topping: Offer a side of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a creamy contrast and optional caramel sauce or chocolate drizzle for extra sweetness.
  5. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped nuts over the doughnuts or the sides for added texture and crunch.
  6. Enjoy: Serve immediately while the doughnuts are fresh and warm, making the most of their delightful flavors and textures.

These serving suggestions will elevate your Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts into an unforgettable dessert experience!

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Storage Tips for Fresh Doughnuts

store doughnuts for freshness

Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts are a deliciously sweet and spiced treat that can be made at home with relative ease. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a beginner-friendly difficulty level, these doughnuts can be stored properly to maintain their freshness for longer enjoyment.

Ingredients:

  • Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts
  • Airtight container or resealable plastic bag
  • Paper towels
  • Optional: additional cinnamon-sugar for coating

Cooking Steps:

  1. Cool the doughnuts: Allow the baked or fried doughnuts to cool completely on a wire rack before storage. This prevents moisture buildup, which can make them soggy.
  2. Wrap or pack: Once cooled, wrap each doughnut in a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture, then place them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag.
  3. Seal properly: Confirm that the container or bag is sealed tightly to prevent air from entering, which can dry them out or introduce odors from other foods.
  4. Store at room temperature: Keep the doughnuts at room temperature for up to two days for ideal freshness. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze them.
  5. Reheat if desired: If using refrigerated or frozen doughnuts, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes before serving to restore their delicious taste and texture.

With these storage tips, your Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts can be enjoyed fresh even days after making them!

Fun Variations to Try

apple cider doughnut delight

Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts are a delightful twist on the classic doughnut, filled with the comforting flavors of apple cider and spices.

With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a beginner-friendly difficulty level, you’ll be able to whip up these delicious treats in no time. They make for a perfect snack or dessert, especially in the fall!

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon grated nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar (for glazing)
  • 2 tablespoons milk (for glazing)
  • Optional: additional cinnamon-sugar for coating

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and greasing a doughnut pan.

2. Mix wet ingredients****: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the apple cider, applesauce, sugar, egg, and vegetable oil until well combined.

3. Combine dry ingredients****: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

4. Combine mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

5. Fill the doughnut pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.

6. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the doughnuts comes out clean.

7. Cool and glaze: Allow the doughnuts to cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. In a separate bowl, mix powdered sugar with milk to create a smooth glaze.

Dip the tops of the cooled doughnuts into the glaze, then sprinkle with additional cinnamon-sugar if desired.

8. Serve: Enjoy your freshly made Glazed Cinnamon-Sugar Apple Cider Doughnuts warm or at room temperature!

These variations will keep your baking interesting and satisfy your cravings for seasonal flavors. Enjoy!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.