Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts (Baked)

Picture yourself walking through an orchard in the crisp air of autumn, warm cider in one hand and a golden donut in the other. Now imagine being able to recreate that magic at home with donuts that are not only baked, but also gluten free. These Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts come out of the oven fluffy, spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and coated in a shimmering cinnamon-sugar crust. They are the essence of fall in every bite, and let me tell you, it’s worth every moment spent making them.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe is rooted in nostalgia. Growing up, a trip to the apple orchard wasn’t complete without a bag of warm apple cider donuts dusted in cinnamon sugar. The scent alone was irresistible. For those who avoid gluten, recreating this joy in a homemade, baked version means no one has to miss out on the tradition.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Apple cider donuts are a staple of fall festivals and farm stands in the United States, especially in the Northeast. Their rise to fame came from orchards wanting to showcase their fresh-pressed cider in a sweet and comforting way. Traditionally fried, they’ve since been adapted into baked versions for a lighter, at-home approach. And making them gluten free opens the door for everyone to enjoy this autumn classic.

Why You’ll Love Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts (Baked)

There are plenty of reasons these donuts will become a fall favorite in your kitchen:

Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or paired with a hot cup of cider.

Budget-Friendly: Made with simple pantry staples and seasonal cider.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour with no messy frying.

Customizable: Change up the spice blend or swap coatings to suit your taste.

Crowd-Pleasing: Both kids and adults will devour these soft, spiced donuts.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake them the night before for a ready-to-go morning treat.

Great for Leftovers: Reheat beautifully and even freeze well for later.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

To make sure these donuts turn out bakery-worthy, keep these tips in mind:

• Reduce the apple cider before using—it intensifies the flavor.
• Grease your donut pan well so they release easily.
• Don’t overmix the batter, which keeps the donuts light and fluffy.
• Roll them in cinnamon sugar while still warm so the coating sticks perfectly.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make the process smooth and enjoyable, have these tools ready:

• Donut Pan: Essential for baking perfect donut shapes.
• Saucepan: To reduce the apple cider and concentrate its flavor.
• Mixing Bowls: For wet and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps blend the spices and flours evenly.
• Wire Rack: For cooling the donuts after baking.

Ingredients in Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts (Baked)

These ingredients come together in harmony to create tender, flavorful donuts that taste like fall.

1. Apple Cider: 1 ½ cups, reduced to ½ cup. Brings authentic apple flavor and natural sweetness.
2. Gluten Free All-Purpose Flour Blend: 2 cups. The base that keeps these donuts fluffy yet gluten free.
3. Baking Powder: 1 ½ teaspoons. Helps the donuts rise.
4. Baking Soda: ½ teaspoon. Adds lightness and airiness.
5. Ground Cinnamon: 2 teaspoons. Infuses the batter with warmth.
6. Ground Nutmeg: ½ teaspoon. Adds depth and that bakery-style spice.
7. Salt: ½ teaspoon. Balances sweetness.
8. Eggs: 2 large. Bind the batter and give structure.
9. Brown Sugar: ½ cup, packed. Adds moisture and caramel-like sweetness.
10. Granulated Sugar: ½ cup. Sweetens and helps the donuts caramelize slightly.
11. Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons, melted. Provides richness and tender crumb.
12. Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons. Enhances flavor.
13. Milk (dairy or non-dairy): ½ cup. Keeps the batter smooth and moist.
14. Cinnamon-Sugar Mixture: 1 cup granulated sugar + 2 teaspoons cinnamon. For rolling the donuts after baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Everyone’s pantry is different, so here are some swaps:

• Butter: Use coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version.
• Milk: Almond, oat, or soy milk work beautifully.
• Brown Sugar: Coconut sugar or maple sugar for a natural twist.
• Gluten Free Flour: Try oat flour blend or almond flour for a different texture.

Ingredient Spotlight

Apple Cider: The heart of the recipe. Reducing the cider not only concentrates the flavor but also creates a natural syrup that infuses every bite with orchard-fresh sweetness.

Cinnamon: More than just spice, cinnamon brings that comforting aroma that defines apple cider donuts.

Instructions for Making Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts (Baked)

Let’s dive into the fun part—baking these donuts!

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, reduce 1 ½ cups apple cider to ½ cup. Let cool. In one bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In another, beat eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, butter, vanilla, milk, and reduced cider. Combine wet and dry until just mixed.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Spoon or pipe batter into the greased donut pan, filling each about ¾ full.
4. Assemble the Dish: Smooth tops lightly to ensure even baking.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake 12–15 minutes until donuts spring back when touched.
6. Finishing Touches: Cool for 5 minutes, then remove from pan and roll in cinnamon-sugar mixture while warm.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Pair with hot cider, coffee, or tea for the perfect autumn indulgence.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The reduced apple cider brings depth and richness, while the blend of cinnamon and nutmeg adds cozy bakery-style spice. The donuts are soft and moist inside, with the cinnamon sugar creating a delicate crunch on the outside.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Pipe the batter with a pastry bag or zip-top bag for neat, even donuts.
• Double-dip in cinnamon sugar for extra flavor.
• Add a glaze of powdered sugar and cider for an indulgent twist.

What to Avoid

A few things to watch out for:

• Don’t skip reducing the cider—it’s key for flavor.
• Avoid overbaking, which can dry out the donuts.
• Don’t overfill the pan, or the donuts will lose their shape.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 12 donuts
Calories per serving: 210

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These donuts are best enjoyed the same day, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them without the cinnamon-sugar coating for up to 2 months, then thaw and roll in sugar after warming.

How to Serve Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts (Baked)

Serve them warm, dusted in cinnamon sugar, alongside a mug of hot apple cider, coffee, or chai tea. For a fun twist, dip them in caramel sauce or drizzle with a cider glaze.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftovers can be just as magical when reimagined:

• Slice and use as layers in a fall trifle with whipped cream and apples.
• Toast lightly and spread with apple butter.
• Turn into donut bread pudding for a decadent dessert.

Additional Tips

Try experimenting with pumpkin spice instead of just cinnamon and nutmeg for a different autumn flavor. For a bakery-like finish, sprinkle a pinch of coarse sugar on top before baking.

Make It a Showstopper

Stack the donuts high on a cake stand, dust lightly with powdered sugar, and garnish with cinnamon sticks or small apple slices for a centerpiece-worthy presentation.

Variations to Try

• Dip in a cider glaze made with powdered sugar and reduced apple cider.
• Make chocolate-drizzled cider donuts for a sweet contrast.
• Use pumpkin puree in place of some of the cider for pumpkin apple donuts.
• Roll in maple sugar instead of cinnamon sugar for a rustic New England twist.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I make these dairy free?

Yes, substitute with non-dairy butter and milk.

Q2: Can I make them vegan?

Yes, use flax eggs and vegan butter, though texture will be slightly denser.

Q3: Do I have to reduce the cider?

Yes, it’s essential for flavor. Without it, the donuts won’t taste strongly of apple.

Q4: Can I fry these donuts instead?

This recipe is designed for baking, but you could adapt it to frying with adjustments.

Q5: How do I keep them fresh longer?

Store in airtight containers and warm before serving for the best texture.

Q6: What if I don’t have a donut pan?

You can bake them in a muffin tin, but they’ll be “donut muffins.”

Q7: Can I add apple chunks?

Yes, finely dice apples and fold them into the batter for added texture.

Q8: Can I use apple juice instead of cider?

Cider is recommended for stronger flavor, but apple juice can work in a pinch.

Q9: Can I glaze instead of sugar coating?

Yes, a powdered sugar and cider glaze makes a delicious topping.

Q10: How do I reheat frozen donuts?

Bake at 300°F for 5–7 minutes, then roll in cinnamon sugar.

Conclusion

Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts (Baked) bring the essence of fall straight into your kitchen—warm spices, sweet apple flavor, and a cinnamon-sugar crunch that feels like a cozy hug in dessert form. Whether you enjoy them fresh from the oven or stash a batch for later, these donuts are a seasonal treat that everyone can savor, gluten free or not. Trust me, this one’s a total game-changer.

watch how to make Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts (Baked)