Easy Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes Recipe

Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes are a delightful twist on a beloved fall classic, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you. There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of warm cinnamon and sweet apple cider wafting from your oven, promising a treat that’s both comforting and incredibly delicious. Forget the deep fryer; these baked beauties offer all the flavor and irresistible chewiness of traditional donut holes, but with a lighter, guilt-free approach. What makes baked apple cider donut holes so special is their perfect balance of spiced apple flavor, tender crumb, and that signature cinnamon-sugar coating that melts in your mouth. They’re perfect for a cozy morning breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a charming addition to any fall gathering. Get ready to experience the best of autumn in every bite!

Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm donut, and the classic apple cider flavor is pure autumn bliss. While traditional fried donuts are delicious, sometimes you crave that same delightful taste with a slightly healthier twist, and without the mess of deep-frying. That’s where these baked apple cider donut holes come in! They’re incredibly easy to make, packed with cozy spice, and boast a wonderfully tender crumb. Imagine miniature, cake-like bites bursting with the essence of sweet apple cider, coated in a cinnamon-sugar wonderland. They’re perfect for a weekend treat, a special breakfast, or even an afternoon pick-me-up.

The magic of these donut holes starts with a concentrated apple cider reduction. This intensifies the apple flavor, ensuring it shines through the dough. We then combine this with classic baking ingredients, a touch of tangy Greek yogurt for moisture and richness, and a blend of warming spices. The final coating of cinnamon sugar is the crowning glory, giving them that irresistible donut finish. Get ready to fill your kitchen with an aroma that’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240ml) apple cider, reduced to 1/2 cup (120ml)
• 1 and 1/2 cups (190 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60 grams) plain Greek yogurt (or sour cream)
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons (45 grams) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
• 4-6 tablespoons (65-85 grams) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled (for coating)
• 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apple Cider Reduction and Preheat Oven

   First, let’s get that apple cider concentrated. Pour your 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Let it bubble away, stirring occasionally, until it has reduced by half, leaving you with about 1/2 cup of a syrupy, intensely flavored liquid. This process takes about 10-15 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn. Once reduced, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. While the cider is reducing, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin or donut hole pan. If you don’t have one, you can also use parchment paper liners in a regular mini muffin tin.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients

   In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. Whisking these dry ingredients thoroughly helps to distribute the leavening agent and spices evenly, ensuring that each donut hole bakes up beautifully and is flavorful throughout. This is a crucial step for a well-risen and perfectly spiced donut.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients and Combine with Dry

   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened Greek yogurt (or sour cream) and brown sugar until smooth and well combined. Then, beat in the room-temperature egg and vanilla extract until everything is fully incorporated. Gradually add the slightly cooled, reduced apple cider to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined. Now, pour the melted and slightly cooled 3 tablespoons of butter into the wet mixture and give it a quick stir. Make a well in the center of your dry ingredients and pour the wet ingredients into it. Gently mix everything together with a spatula or wooden spoon until *just* combined. It’s important not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to tough donut holes. A few small lumps are perfectly fine.

4. Form and Bake the Donut Holes

   This is where we get our donut holes ready for their warm embrace! You can use a small cookie scoop (about 1-tablespoon size) or two spoons to drop dollops of batter into your prepared mini muffin tin or donut hole pan. Fill each cavity about two-thirds full, as they will puff up during baking. Place the filled pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut hole comes out clean. The edges should be lightly golden brown. Be mindful that baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven. Once baked, let the donut holes cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring them to a wire rack to cool slightly more.

5. Create the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

   While the donut holes are still warm (but not hot enough to burn your fingers!), it’s time for their delicious coating. In a shallow bowl or pie plate, combine the granulated sugar and the remaining 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Stir well to ensure the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar. In a separate small bowl, melt the 4-6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. This extra butter is essential for creating a beautiful, glossy coating that helps the cinnamon sugar adhere perfectly. One by one, dip each still-warm donut hole into the melted butter, ensuring it’s fully coated on all sides. Then, immediately roll the butter-coated donut hole in the cinnamon sugar mixture until it’s generously covered. Place the coated donut holes back on the wire rack to set. The residual warmth will help the coating adhere beautifully.

Enjoy these delightful baked apple cider donut holes warm! They are best enjoyed the day they are made, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two. If you need to store them longer, you can refrigerate them, though they may lose a bit of their initial tenderness. Reheat them gently in a warm oven or microwave for a minute before enjoying.

Conclusion:

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning how to make these delightful baked apple cider donut holes! This recipe is truly wonderful because it captures all the cozy, autumnal flavors of classic apple cider donuts without the fuss and mess of deep frying. They’re incredibly light, wonderfully moist, and bursting with that irresistible spiced apple cider goodness. The baked method makes them a healthier, weeknight-friendly treat that you can feel good about enjoying. They are perfect for a special breakfast, a satisfying afternoon snack, or even a charming addition to a dessert table. I highly recommend serving them warm, dusted with cinnamon sugar or a sweet glaze. For variations, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for an extra layer of spice, or dip them in a caramel sauce for a truly decadent experience. Don’t hesitate to give these baked apple cider donut holes a try – I’m confident you’ll fall in love with them just as much as I have!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Once cooled, store the baked apple cider donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They are best enjoyed fresh, but still quite delicious the next day.

What kind of apple cider should I use?

Using a good quality, unfiltered apple cider will give you the best flavor. The richer and more concentrated the cider, the more pronounced the apple flavor will be in your donut holes.

Can I add anything to the dough besides the cider?

Absolutely! You can add about half a teaspoon of cinnamon directly into the batter for an extra cinnamon boost. Some people also like to add a touch of finely grated apple zest for more fresh apple flavor.

Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes

Deliciously spiced baked donut holes infused with the cozy flavor of apple cider.

Prep Time
15 Minutes

Cook Time
10 Minutes

Total Time
25 Minutes

Servings
Approximately 24 donut holes

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240ml) apple cider ((reduced to 1/2 cup – 120ml))
• 1 and 1/2 cups (190 grams) all-purpose flour
• 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup (60 grams) plain Greek yogurt ((or sour cream))
• 1/2 cup (100 grams) brown sugar
• 1 large egg ((room temperature))
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons (45 grams) unsalted butter (, melted and slightly cooled)
• 4-6 tablespoons (65-85 grams) unsalted butter (, melted and slightly cooled)
• 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a mini donut pan or muffin tin.
2. Step 2
   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. Step 3
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the reduced apple cider, Greek yogurt, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Step 4
   Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Gently fold in the 3 tablespoons of melted butter.
5. Step 5
   Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.
6. Step 6
   Bake for 9-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Step 7
   While the donut holes are baking, melt the remaining 4-6 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl. In another shallow dish, combine the granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon.
8. Step 8
   Once the donut holes are baked, let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before carefully removing them. Dip each warm donut hole into the melted butter, then toss in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.