Name: Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes: Fall's Cozy Sweet Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups Apple Cider (Use freshly pressed cider for the best taste.); 0.5 cups Butter (Can be substituted with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.); 0.5 cups Light Brown Sugar (Can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.); 0.25 cups White Sugar (Could be omitted if desired.); 2 large Eggs (To replace, use flax eggs.); 1.75 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can substitute with whole wheat pastry flour.); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Ensure freshness for best results.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Consider adding nutmeg or allspice for extra flavor.); 0.5 cups Milk (Nut milk or oat milk can be used to make it dairy-free.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Recommended for best flavor.); 0.5 cups Melted Butter (Use unsalted for a more balanced taste.); 0.25 cups Cinnamon Sugar (Mix granulated sugar with cinnamon in a 3:1 ratio.)

The unmistakable aroma of spiced apple cider hanging in the air can take you straight to the heart of a bustling fall orchard, where every bite feels like a warm hug. That’s the feeling I wanted to capture when I first whipped up these Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes—a cozy dessert that perfectly blends nostalgic flavors and comforting textures. These delightful treats are not only incredibly soft and fluffy but also a quick and easy way to elevate your morning routine. With a sweet cinnamon sugar coating that dances on your taste buds, they’re perfect alongside your favorite warm beverage, making them an irresistible breakfast or dessert choice. Are you ready to bring the essence of autumn into your kitchen and enjoy a taste of the season?

Why are these donut holes a must-try?

Irresistible Aroma: The moment you start baking, your kitchen will be filled with the warm scents of cinnamon and apple, instantly creating a cozy atmosphere.

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and under 30 minutes of your time, you can whip up a batch of these delightful donut holes that are perfect for busy mornings or unexpected guests.

Versatile Treat: Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack, these Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes are sure to please everyone at the table.

Perfect Pairing: Enjoy them warm with a side of coffee or hot apple cider, elevating your cozy gatherings or fall brunches.

Healthy Twist: Looking for a healthier option? Feel free to swap in whole wheat flour for added nutrition—one delicious way to indulge without the guilt!

Give these delightful donut holes a try, and if you’re looking for more cozy recipes, check out these Baked Chicken Goujons for a heartwarming meal. You’re just a bake away from a wonderful fall experience!

Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes Ingredients

For the Batter
• Apple Cider – Provides flavor and moisture; use freshly pressed cider for the best taste.
• Butter – Adds richness and contributes to a tender texture; can be substituted with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Light Brown Sugar – Contributes sweetness and a subtle caramel flavor; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
• White Sugar – Enhances sweetness; could be omitted if desired, but ideally used for contrast with brown sugar.
• Eggs – Provide structure and help bind the mixture together; to replace, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
• All-Purpose Flour – The main structure component for the donut holes; can substitute with whole wheat pastry flour for added nutrition.
• Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to achieve the desired rise; no substitutions suggested; ensure freshness for best results.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and a hallmark autumn flavor; consider adding nutmeg or allspice for extra spice complexity.
• Milk – Ensures the batter is moist and cohesive; nut milk or oat milk can be used to make it dairy-free.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavors; can be omitted if necessary, but recommended for best flavor.

For the Coating
• Melted Butter – Ensures the cinnamon sugar sticks to the donut holes; use unsalted butter for a more balanced taste.
• Cinnamon Sugar – Creates that irresistible sweet coating; simply mix granulated sugar with cinnamon in a 3:1 ratio.

These Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes are not just a treat; they’re a celebration of the flavors and warmth of fall!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that when your batter is ready, the oven is hot enough to create that perfect fluffy texture for your Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes. Grab a donut hole pan and set it aside for later.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider
Pour 1½ cups of apple cider into a medium saucepan and bring it to a medium-high heat. Allow it to simmer, stirring occasionally, until it reduces to about ½ cup, which should take approximately 20 minutes. This step concentrates the flavors, enhancing the sweetness of your donut holes. Once reduced, let the cider cool slightly.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, add ½ cup of softened butter, ½ cup of light brown sugar, and ¼ cup of white sugar. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, cream these together on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 2-3 minutes. This creates a rich base for your Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes, ensuring a tender texture.

Step 4: Add the Eggs
Next, crack in two eggs, one at a time, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light. This binding ingredient helps hold your donut holes together, making them soft and fluffy when baked. Set the mixture aside once the eggs are incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until well combined. This ensures that the leavening agent is evenly distributed through your dry mixture, which helps your Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes rise perfectly.

Step 6: Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, alternating with the cooled apple cider. Start with a third of the dry mix, then add half of the cider, continuing this pattern until everything is combined. Mix on low speed until just combined, avoiding overmixing to maintain a tender crumb in your donut holes.

Step 7: Add Vanilla Extract
Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract using a spatula until evenly distributed. This will enhance the flavors of your Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes, adding a delicious warmth that complements the apple and cinnamon beautifully.

Step 8: Prepare the Donut Hole Pan
Lightly grease your donut hole pan with cooking spray or melted butter to prevent sticking. Then, fill each well about ¾ full with the batter—this ensures they have enough room to rise but don’t overflow. Use a spoon or a piping bag to make this process cleaner and easier.

Step 9: Bake the Donut Holes
Place the filled donut hole pan in your preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, they’re ready. The playful aroma of baked apple cider will fill your kitchen!

Step 10: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the donut holes are baking, melt ½ cup of butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon to create the delightful coating for your Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes.

Step 11: Coat the Donut Holes
Once the donut holes are baked and slightly cooled for about five minutes, dip each one into the melted butter, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This adds a sweet, crunchy coating that perfectly complements the soft interior.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy
After coating, let your Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes rest for a few minutes before serving warm. These delightful treats are perfect with a cup of coffee or apple cider, embodying the comforting essence of fall in every bite!

What to Serve with Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes

These delightful treats are perfect for crafting a cozy, fall-inspired meal that warms the heart and soul.

Hot Apple Cider: A classic companion, the sweet, spiced flavors of apple cider elevate the apple notes in the donut holes, making each bite feel like a warm embrace.
Cinnamon Coffee: Pairing these donut holes with cinnamon-spiced coffee enhances the aromatic experience, creating a morning ritual that feels both comforting and indulgent.
Warm Vanilla Custard: Drizzling warm custard over the donut holes introduces a creamy, rich texture that perfectly contrasts the fluffy bites, turning them into an exquisite dessert.
Maple Glaze: A light drizzle of maple glaze adds an extra dimension of sweetness that ties in beautifully with the apple cider, evoking the flavors of a classic autumn breakfast.
Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layering these donut holes with yogurt and fresh fruits creates a delightful parfait, balancing indulgence with a healthier twist.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite complements the flavors in the donut holes, bringing the essence of fall directly to your taste buds.
Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai create a beautifully aromatic pairing that both contrasts and compliments the donut holes’ cinnamon sugar coating.
Ice Cream Sundae: For a playful dessert, serve these donut holes alongside scoops of vanilla or caramel ice cream, topped with fudge or toffee for a sweet indulgence.
Seasonal Fruit Salad: A fresh, vibrant fruit salad helps cut through the richness of the donut holes while adding a refreshing element to your fall-inspired meal.

Expert Tips for Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes

Cider Reduction: Don’t skip reducing the apple cider; it’s crucial for enhancing the sweet apple flavor in your donut holes.
Mixing Matters: Avoid overmixing the batter! Mix just until combined to ensure your donuts remain fluffy and tender.
Use a Donut Pan: For perfectly shaped donut holes, use a donut hole pan. If you don’t have one, muffin tins work but may require adjusted baking time.
Cooling Time: Let the donut holes cool slightly before dipping in butter and rolling in cinnamon sugar. This helps the coating stick better!
Flavor Variations: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth and complexity in your Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes.

Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes Variations

Feel free to personalize your Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes adventure with these delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with coconut oil for a rich, dairy-free option that maintains moist texture.
Whole Wheat: Switch all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, more nutritious donut hole that’s just as delicious.
Sweet Spice Mix: Add an apple pie spice mix for a complex flavor profile that enhances the autumn taste experience wonderfully.
Fruitful Add-ins: Fold in finely chopped apples or pecans into the batter for added texture and a fresh burst of taste.
Powdered Sugar Coating: Change the classic cinnamon sugar coating to powdered sugar for a sweeter and creamier finish—simply divine!
Baked Apple Cider Donut Muffins: Use a muffin tin instead of a donut hole pan for puffier treats, adjusting the baking time slightly for a fun twist on the classic.
Pumpkin Spice Variation: Add a tablespoon of pumpkin spice to the batter for a seasonal flair that will inspire cozy fall feelings.
Chocolate Drizzle: After coating, drizzle melted chocolate over the donut holes for an indulgent treat that is bound to impress.

For more flavorful recipes, try these tasty Summer Grilled Bacon Burgers or a sweet touch with Pot Brown Sugar Ham that’s perfect for sharing. Enjoy exploring your creativity in the kitchen!

Make Ahead Options

These Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes are a fantastic choice for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Alternatively, you can bake the donut holes and keep them at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their soft texture, simply reheat them briefly in the microwave before serving or enjoy them at room temperature. If you choose to freeze them, they will last up to 2 months—just thaw and coat them in cinnamon sugar right before enjoyment. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have delightful treats ready whenever the craving hits!

Storage Tips for Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes

Room Temperature: Store leftover donut holes in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days to maintain their soft texture and delicious flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week, but this may alter their texture slightly.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating: To revive them, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring they stay soft and delightful!

Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes Recipe FAQs

What type of apple cider should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I highly recommend using freshly pressed apple cider. This variety captures the natural sweetness and depth of flavor that transforms these donut holes into a true fall treat.

How should I store leftover donut holes?
Store leftover Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days. This will keep them soft and flavorful. If you find that they start to dry out, a quick microwave warming can restore their glorious fluffiness!

Can I freeze these donut holes?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze these delightful treats! To freeze, simply place them in a single layer in a sealed container or freezer bag, ensuring they are not stacked to avoid sticking. They can be stored this way for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature before reheating in the oven.

What should I do if my donut holes are dense?
Very! If you find that your Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes turned out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Make sure to mix your batter just until combined, avoiding any vigorous stirring. Additionally, ensure that your baking powder is fresh, as using expired leavening agents can lead to flat or heavy results.

Can I make these donut holes dairy-free or gluten-free?
Of course! To make these donut holes dairy-free, you can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. For a gluten-free version, swap all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Be sure to check the blend’s water content, as some may require slight adjustments in the liquids used!

Is it safe for pets to consume apple cider donuts?
It’s best to keep these sweet treats away from pets, especially those containing sugars and spices like cinnamon. While a small taste of plain apple might be safe, the other ingredients can be harmful or unhealthy for pets, so it’s better to enjoy these Baked Apple Cider Donut Holes yourself!