Baked Apple Cider Donuts: 7 Irresistible Cozy Bites

There’s something truly magical about the smell of baked goods wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? I get butterflies just thinking about it! And when it comes to Baked Apple Cider Donuts, oh boy, we’re talking about a flavor explosion that can make any autumn morning feel extra special. These donuts are moist, fluffy, and bursting with the warm, spiced goodness of apple cider. Imagine biting into one and tasting that perfect balance of sweetness and a hint of cinnamon—it’s like a cozy hug in dessert form!

What I love most about these donuts is how easy they are to whip up. No frying mess here! Just mix your ingredients, pop them in the oven, and in no time, you’ve got a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. They’re also a healthier alternative, made with whole-wheat pastry flour and coconut sugar, so you can indulge without guilt. Trust me, once you’ve tried these, they’ll become a go-to favorite in your baking repertoire, especially when the leaves start to turn and the air gets crisp!

Ingredients List

• ½ cup apple cider (not vinegar) – This is the star of the show, bringing that rich apple flavor.
• ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce – Adds moisture and a touch of sweetness without extra sugar.
• 1 ¾ cups whole-wheat pastry flour – A healthier alternative that gives these donuts a lovely texture.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works alongside the baking powder for that perfect lift.
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon – For that warm, comforting spice that’s just essential in apple treats.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt – Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
• ½ cup coconut sugar – A natural sweetener that adds a hint of caramel flavor.
• ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt – Keeps the donuts moist and adds a bit of tang.
• 3 tablespoons melted coconut oil – For richness and a subtle coconut flavor.
• 1 egg – Binds everything together and adds structure.
• 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (for topping) – Gives that extra shine and flavor to the coating.
• ½ cup organic cane sugar (for topping) – Sweetens up the outside for a delightful crunch.
• ½ tablespoon cinnamon (for topping) – A sprinkle of this on top makes everything even more aromatic!

How to Prepare Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Pans

First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that your Baked Apple Cider Donuts rise just right and get that fluffy texture we love. While the oven warms up, grab your donut pans—if you’ve got a non-stick Wilton pan, you’re in luck! Spray the cavities generously with cooking spray to make sure those delicious donuts pop right out without a hitch.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the whole-wheat pastry flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and sea salt. Give it a good stir until everything is evenly mixed. This step might seem simple, but trust me, it’s key! You want those leavening agents and spices evenly distributed so that every bite of your donut is perfectly spiced and fluffy.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

Now for the fun part! In another medium bowl, whisk together the apple cider, unsweetened applesauce, coconut sugar, Greek yogurt, melted coconut oil, and egg until it’s all smooth and well-blended. This mixture is where the magic happens, bringing all that wonderful moisture to your donuts. Make sure there are no lumps, as a smooth mixture is essential for the lightest donuts.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Next, gently pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Here’s where you’ll want to stir just until combined—don’t overmix! A few flour streaks are okay. This keeps your donuts tender, so be gentle, like you’re cradling a newborn puppy!

Fill the Donut Pans

Time to fill those pans! You can either spoon the batter in or pipe it for a neater approach. Fill each cavity about three-quarters full, leaving some room for rising. It’s like giving them a little space to grow, just like we all need sometimes!

Bake and Cool

Pop those pans into your preheated oven and bake for 6–8 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they spring back lightly when pressed. Let them cool in the pan for about 2 minutes before inverting them onto a wire rack. This little cooling time helps them set perfectly without falling apart.

Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

While your donuts cool, whisk together the organic cane sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, brush them with melted coconut oil on both sides. Now dip them into that lovely cinnamon sugar mixture until they’re coated all around. This final touch makes them irresistible and gives that extra crunch we all crave!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: These Baked Apple Cider Donuts are infused with the warm, cozy flavors of apple cider and cinnamon, making them a perfect treat for any time of year—especially fall!
• Healthier Option: Made with whole-wheat pastry flour and coconut sugar, these donuts provide a guilt-free indulgence. You get all the flavor without the heaviness of traditional fried donuts!
• Quick and Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch in no time. They bake in just 6–8 minutes, so you’ll be enjoying them before you know it!
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a cozy breakfast at home or a gathering with friends, these donuts are sure to impress. They’re easy to transport and make a delightful addition to any brunch spread.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative! Add nuts, dried fruits, or even a drizzle of caramel for extra flair. The base recipe is versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your taste.

Tips for Success

Making the perfect Baked Apple Cider Donuts is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to ensure your donuts turn out delicious every single time:

Measure Ingredients Accurately

One of the most common pitfalls in baking is not measuring ingredients properly. Use a kitchen scale for the flour if you have one; it can really help achieve consistency. For dry ingredients, spoon the flour into your measuring cup without packing it down, then level it off with a straight edge. This will help prevent dense donuts!

Don’t Overmix the Batter

When combining your wet and dry mixtures, remember that less is more! Overmixing can lead to tough donuts. Stir just until the ingredients are combined and no more; a few lumps are perfectly okay!

Experiment with Flavor Add-ins

If you want to elevate your donuts even further, consider adding a touch of nutmeg for warmth, or fold in some finely chopped apples for a delightful surprise in every bite. You can also throw in some chopped nuts or dried cranberries to add texture and flavor!

Keep an Eye on Baking Time

Every oven is a little different, so start checking your donuts around the 6-minute mark. If they’re not springing back yet, give them another minute or two. Be careful not to overbake them, as that can lead to dryness.

Let Them Cool Properly

After baking, it’s tempting to dive right in, but letting your donuts cool for a couple of minutes in the pan helps them set perfectly. It makes for easy removal, and you won’t have to deal with crumbling donuts!

Store Smart

To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best eaten the day they’re made, but if you have leftovers, they’ll last a couple of days. Just be sure to keep them sealed to avoid drying out!

With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to mastering the art of baking Baked Apple Cider Donuts. Happy baking!

Nutritional Information Section

Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one of these delicious Baked Apple Cider Donuts. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but this will give you a good idea:

• Calories: 186
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 33 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 19 g
• Protein: 3 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg
• Sodium: 177 mg

These donuts are a delightful treat you can enjoy without too much guilt. They offer a nice balance of flavor and nutrition, making them a fantastic choice for breakfast or a snack!

FAQ Section

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Absolutely! If you want to go gluten-free, just swap out the whole-wheat pastry flour for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to choose one that contains xanthan gum, as this will help give your donuts the structure they need. Just keep in mind that gluten-free flours can sometimes absorb more liquid, so you might need to add a little extra apple cider or applesauce to achieve the right batter consistency. Happy baking!

How should I store leftovers?

To keep your Baked Apple Cider Donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed the day they’re made, but if you have any left, they’ll last for about 2–3 days. Just make sure to seal them up tight to prevent them from drying out. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just wrap each donut in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to indulge, let them thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to warm them up!

Can I substitute any ingredients?

Definitely! If you don’t have coconut sugar on hand, you can use brown sugar or even regular granulated sugar, though the flavor profile will be slightly different. For the applesauce, feel free to swap in mashed bananas or even pumpkin puree for a unique twist! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can replace the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative or even some extra applesauce. Just remember, these substitutions may alter the taste and texture a bit, but that’s part of the fun of baking, right?

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked up a batch of those irresistible Baked Apple Cider Donuts, let’s talk about how to elevate your experience! These donuts are delightful on their own, but pairing them with the right accompaniments can take them to the next level.

One of my favorite ways to enjoy these donuts is with a steaming cup of freshly brewed coffee. The rich, robust flavors of coffee perfectly complement the sweet, spiced notes of the donuts. If you prefer something a bit lighter, a warm cup of chai tea or apple cider would be a fantastic choice too! The cozy spices in both drinks harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the donuts.

If you’re hosting a brunch or a cozy get-together, consider serving these donuts alongside a fruit salad. Bright, fresh fruits like sliced apples, pears, and berries add a refreshing contrast. You could also whip up a simple yogurt parfait with layers of Greek yogurt, granola, and these donuts crumbled on top for a fun twist!

For a touch of indulgence, why not drizzle some caramel or maple syrup over the donuts? Just a little drizzle can make each bite feel like a special treat. And if you’re feeling adventurous, serve them with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert—trust me, it’s a game-changer!

However you choose to enjoy your Baked Apple Cider Donuts, they’re sure to be a hit. These pairings enhance the flavors and make your baking experience even more enjoyable. Happy munching!

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