Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Maple Glaze

There’s something about autumn that makes everything taste a little sweeter, and these Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Maple Glaze are no exception. They’re the perfect blend of cozy spices and warm flavors, topped with a sticky-sweet glaze that feels like a comforting hug for your taste buds! And the best part? They’re baked, not fried, so you can enjoy them with a little less guilt.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These baked apple cider doughnuts are the epitome of fall baking. They’re tender, fluffy, and infused with the tangy-sweet flavor of apple cider, complemented by warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. When topped with a dreamy cinnamon maple glaze, they become completely irresistible. Whether you’re enjoying them with your morning coffee or as a sweet treat after dinner, these doughnuts are sure to hit the spot.

Reasons to Love These Doughnuts:

• Fall in every bite: The apple cider and cinnamon flavors perfectly capture the season.
• Baked, not fried: A lighter option compared to traditional doughnuts.
• Easy to make: No deep fryer needed—just a doughnut pan and your oven.
• Perfect for sharing: They make a great treat for cozy gatherings, brunches, or a weekend breakfast treat!

What Do They Taste Like?

Think of these doughnuts as little bites of autumn. The apple cider adds a subtle tang, while the cinnamon and nutmeg give them that warm, spiced flavor we all crave when the leaves start turning. And let’s not forget the glaze—maple syrup and cinnamon come together to create a rich, sweet topping that makes these doughnuts truly indulgent.

Ingredients List

For the Doughnuts:

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

For the Cinnamon Maple Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon milk
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Tools You’ll Need

• Doughnut pan (if you don’t have one, you can also use a muffin tin)
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack
• Small spatula or spoon (for dipping the doughnuts in glaze)

How to Make Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a doughnut pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the apple cider, granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
4. Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough doughnuts.
5. Fill the Doughnut Pan: Spoon or pipe the batter into the doughnut pan, filling each mold about three-quarters full.
6. Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the doughnuts are set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Make the Cinnamon Maple Glaze:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and cinnamon until smooth.
2. Once the doughnuts are cooled, dip the tops into the glaze, allowing any excess to drip off. Set the glazed doughnuts back on the cooling rack and let the glaze set for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

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What to Serve with These Doughnuts

Pair these doughnuts with a cup of warm apple cider, a hot chai latte, or your favorite coffee. They also make a lovely addition to any brunch spread, alongside fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, and bacon.

Tips for Making the Perfect Doughnuts

• Don’t overmix: To keep your doughnuts light and fluffy, mix the batter until just combined.
• Use fresh apple cider: For the best flavor, use fresh apple cider. It makes a world of difference!
• Let them cool: Be patient and allow your doughnuts to cool before glazing—this ensures the glaze sets properly.
• Glaze control: If you want a thicker glaze, let the doughnuts cool completely before dipping a second time!

Storage Instructions

If you manage to have any leftovers (which might be tough!), store the doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also refrigerate them for up to 5 days, but let them come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

FAQ

Can I make these doughnuts ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the doughnuts a day in advance. Just store them without the glaze in an airtight container and glaze them the day you plan to serve.

Can I freeze these doughnuts?

Absolutely. Freeze the unglazed doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw and glaze.

Can I substitute the apple cider?

If you don’t have apple cider, you can use apple juice in a pinch, though the flavor won’t be as bold.

Conclusion

These Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Maple Glaze are everything you want in a fall treat—soft, flavorful, and topped with the most delicious glaze. They’re a guaranteed hit at any gathering or simply as a sweet indulgence for yourself. Plus, they’re baked, so you can enjoy them with a little less guilt!

Ready to dive into more fall flavors? Check out my recipes :

• Caramel Chocolate Crunch Bars
• Snickerdoodle Pumpkin Cookie Bars
• No-Bake Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes

And don’t forget—if you make these doughnuts, I’d love to see them! Tag me on Instagram or share your photos on Pinterest!

Nutritional Information (per doughnut):

• Calories: 220
• Carbs: 36g
• Fat: 8g
• Protein: 3g
• Sugar: 24g

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