Cozy Baked Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar | Easy Fall Treat

There’s something magical about autumn mornings—the crisp air, golden leaves, and of course, the warm scent of cinnamon and apples drifting from the kitchen. These Cozy Baked Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar bring all those cozy fall vibes right to your home.

Baked (not fried!) and rolled in a sparkly cinnamon-sugar coating, these donuts are light, fluffy, and filled with comforting apple cider flavor. They’re the kind of treat that makes you want to curl up with a blanket and a cup of tea or hot cocoa. The best part? They’re simple enough for beginner bakers and come together with just a handful of pantry staples.

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Reduce the cider – In a small saucepan, simmer apple cider over medium heat until reduced to about ½ cup. Let cool. (This step intensifies the apple flavor!)
2. Mix dry ingredients – In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Mix wet ingredients – In a separate bowl, whisk melted butter, egg, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth. Stir in buttermilk, vanilla, and cooled apple cider.
4. Combine – Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined (don’t overmix).
5. Bake – Pipe or spoon the batter into greased donut pans, filling each cavity about ¾ full. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, until the donuts spring back when lightly touched.
6. Coat – Let donuts cool for 5 minutes, then brush with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Don’t skip reducing the cider! It’s the secret to deep apple flavor.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. Refresh by warming briefly in the oven.
• Make ahead: Bake and freeze the donuts (without coating). Thaw and roll in fresh cinnamon sugar before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Glazed version: Skip the cinnamon sugar and drizzle with a simple apple cider glaze (powdered sugar + cider).
• Spiced twist: Add a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the batter for extra warmth.
• Healthier option: Swap half the flour for whole wheat flour and use less sugar in the coating.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a warm cup of chai tea or spiced herbal tea for the ultimate fall moment.
• Serve alongside fresh apple slices and a cheese platter for a cozy brunch spread.
• Enjoy as an afternoon snack with a pumpkin spice latte or hot cocoa.

Conclusion

These Baked Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar are the kind of treat that make fall feel extra special. They’re cozy, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family on a crisp morning. Whether you bake them for a weekend breakfast or as a sweet afternoon snack, these donuts will quickly become a seasonal favorite.