Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Maple Glaze

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These doughnuts are baked, not fried, making them an easier and slightly healthier option. They are packed with seasonal flavors, quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and completely customizable. Plus, they’ll fill your kitchen with the incredible aroma of apples, cinnamon, and maple syrup—a true fall experience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

apple cider
all-purpose flour
baking powder
baking soda
ground cinnamon
ground nutmeg
eggs
melted butter
brown sugar
vanilla extract
milk
maple syrup
powdered sugar

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease a doughnut pan with butter or non-stick spray.

3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

4. In another bowl, whisk together the apple cider, eggs, melted butter, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and milk.

5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.

6. Spoon the batter into the doughnut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.

7. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the doughnuts comes out clean.

8. Allow the doughnuts to cool slightly in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.

9. For the glaze, whisk together the maple syrup, powdered sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.

10. Dip the tops of each doughnut into the glaze, then set aside to let it set.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 doughnuts. Preparation time is 10 minutes, baking time is 15–18 minutes, and total time (including cooling and glazing) is around 35–40 minutes.

Variations

• Chocolate Lovers: Swap the cinnamon maple glaze for a rich chocolate glaze.

• Simple Sugar Coating: Roll the baked doughnuts in cinnamon sugar instead of glazing.

• Extra Spicy: Add a dash of allspice or cloves for a deeper spice flavor.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.

Storage/reheating

Store doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them after cooling completely. To reheat, bake in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes or microwave for 15–20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I substitute apple cider with apple juice?

Yes, but apple cider gives a richer, deeper flavor compared to apple juice.

Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can refrigerate the batter for up to 24 hours and bake when ready.

Can I freeze these doughnuts?

Absolutely! Freeze after cooling and glaze them after reheating for best texture.

How do I reheat the doughnuts?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes or in the microwave for 15–20 seconds.

Can I make these doughnuts gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

What if I don’t have a doughnut pan?

You can use a muffin tin, though baking times may vary slightly.

Can I make mini doughnuts with this recipe?

Yes, simply use a mini doughnut pan and reduce the baking time by a few minutes.

How strong is the maple flavor in the glaze?

It’s pleasantly sweet and subtle; you can adjust the maple syrup to your taste.

Can I use different spices?

Of course! Feel free to experiment with allspice, ginger, or cloves.

How do I keep the glaze from becoming too runny?

Add more powdered sugar if the glaze is too thin or let it sit for a few minutes to thicken.

Conclusion

Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Maple Glaze are the ultimate comfort treat, perfect for any time you need a little extra sweetness and warmth. Easy to make, full of fall flavors, and topped with an irresistible glaze, these doughnuts are sure to become a new seasonal favorite in your home.