As the leaves begin to don their vibrant autumn coats, my kitchen fills with the soul-soothing scents of cinnamon and warm spices. There’s something magical about embracing fall flavors, and that’s exactly what these Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes deliver. With a rich apple cider reduction and a delicate, fluffy texture, they’re perfect for celebrating the cozy season. Not only are they incredibly easy to whip up—ideal for an afternoon treat or a festive gathering—but they also offer a delightful twist on traditional fried doughnuts, making them a healthier choice for everyone. Imagine enjoying these sweet, spiced morsels with a steaming cup of coffee or hot chocolate. What’s your favorite way to savor the flavors of fall?
Why Are These Doughnut Holes Amazing?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite is bursting with the warm essence of apple cider and aromatic spices that perfectly capture the essence of fall.
Effortless Preparation: With a simple mix-and-bake method, you’ll be enjoying these scrumptious treats in no time, even on busy mornings!
Versatile Options: Feel free to transform this recipe into regular muffins for a delightful twist; check out our tips to make Banana Nut Baked options as well!
Cozy Vibes: The sweet cinnamon-sugar coating adds an inviting touch, making them perfect for gatherings or quiet afternoons with a warm drink.
Healthier Choice: Baked instead of fried, these doughnut holes provide a lighter alternative, allowing you to indulge guilt-free! You might also enjoy making a batch of Healthy Blueberry Baked treats for a nutritious option.
Embrace the delightful season with every mouthful of these fabulous doughnut holes!
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes Ingredients
For the Batter
• Apple Cider – Provides a rich apple flavor and moisture; boil down for maximum concentration.
• Salted Butter (4 tablespoons, melted) – Adds richness and moisture; unsalted works too for a milder taste.
• Vanilla Extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results.
• Eggs (2 large) – Provides essential structure and moisture to the doughnut holes.
• Apple Butter (1/3 cup) – Adds delightful sweetness and concentrated apple flavor; substitute with additional apple sauce if desired.
• Maple Syrup (1/4 cup) – Sweetens while providing a lovely caramel-like flavor; honey is an excellent substitute.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup) – Forms the base structure; whole wheat flour can be used for added nutrition.
• Whole Wheat Flour (1 cup) – Adds fiber and nuttiness; feel free to swap for more all-purpose flour if preferred.
• Baking Powder (1 1/2 teaspoons) & Baking Soda (1 teaspoon) – Acts as leavening agents for that perfect rise and fluffiness.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – Crucial for that comforting fall flavor.
• Ground Cardamom (1/2 teaspoon), Ground Ginger (1/2 teaspoon), Freshly Grated Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon) – These warming spices enhance the delightful autumn profile; fresh spices pack a more potent flavor.
• Kosher Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Balances the sweetness while boosting other flavors.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
• Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup) – Sweetness for the coating; consider using brown sugar for richer taste.
• Additional Cinnamon (1 tablespoon) – Enhances the sweet flavor of the doughnut holes.
• Unsalted Butter (6 tablespoons, melted for rolling) – Perfect for helping the sugar mix stick to the doughnut holes; you can use salted butter as well.
These Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes are all about filling your kitchen with that cozy autumn aroma, a warm hug in every bite! Enjoy the baking adventure!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a mini muffin pan by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or softened butter. This ensures that the Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes release easily once baked. Set your prepared pan aside while you work on the doughnut mixture.
Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider
In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Allow it to simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cider is reduced to 1/2 cup. The liquid should appear syrupy and have a rich aroma. Remove it from heat, then stir in the 4 tablespoons of melted salted butter, and let the mixture cool slightly.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled apple cider mixture, 2 large eggs, 1/3 cup of apple butter, 1/4 cup of maple syrup, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated. The mixture should be creamy and fragrant, capturing the essence of your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of whole wheat flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Whisk until evenly mixed, then gently add this dry blend to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined for the perfect doughnut hole texture.
Step 5: Fill the Muffin Pan
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared mini muffin pan, filling each cavity about 1/2 to 2/3 full. You can use a small cookie scoop or a measuring spoon for ease. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles, ensuring that each Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Hole is fluffy and delightful.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the muffin pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops spring back lightly when touched and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as oven times may vary. The doughnut holes should be golden brown and emit a wonderful spiced aroma.
Step 7: Cool and Release
Once baked, remove the muffin pan from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes on a wire rack. This short cooling period will help them firm up a bit, making it easier to release the Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes from the pan. Gently run a butter knife around the edges to loosen and carefully pop them out.
Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a skillet, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat until it just begins to brown, about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove it from the heat and stir in a splash of vanilla extract. In another bowl, combine 1/2 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of additional cinnamon to create the cinnamon-sugar coating.
Step 9: Coat the Doughnut Holes
Carefully brush each warm doughnut hole with the browned butter, ensuring they are well coated. Then, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, allowing for an even layer of sweetness on all sides. This final touch will add a delicious crunch and delightful flavor to your Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes.
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful doughnut holes to suit your taste buds!
- Honey Swap: Replace maple syrup with honey for a unique sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apple flavors.
- Loaf Style: Transform into a loaf or regular muffins by adjusting the baking time to about 40 minutes at 350°F.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with warming spices like allspice or pumpkin pie spice for an exciting flavor twist.
- Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the butter and milk products with vegan alternatives for a delicious dairy-free version.
- Sweeten with Brown Sugar: Use brown sugar in the coating for a richer, caramel-like flavor that complements the cinnamon.
Picture cozy autumn mornings indulging in these variations—each bite a delicious surprise! You can also explore other family favorites like our Strawberry Shortcake Cinnamon or try something seasonal like Pumpkin Cheesecake Cinnamon for a comforting experience.
Expert Tips for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
Maximize Flavor: Ensure you reduce the apple cider fully to concentrate its rich flavor—this truly enhances your doughnut holes.
Avoid Overmixing: Stir the batter gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense, tough doughnut holes instead of the desired fluffy texture.
Watch the Butter: When browning the butter, keep a close eye on it. You want a nutty aroma and golden color, but don’t let it burn.
Serve Fresh: For the best experience, serve these doughnut holes warm. They can lose moisture and become dry when fully cooled.
Coating Technique: Use the warm, browned butter to coat your doughnut holes before rolling them in cinnamon sugar. This ensures the coating sticks better for that sweet bite!
These tips will help you create the best Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes, leaving your family and friends asking for seconds!
What to Serve with Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
As the warm, spiced aroma fills the air, it’s easy to imagine what hearty companions will elevate your cozy fall experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery texture complements the doughnut holes’ sweetness perfectly, balancing flavors in a comforting way.
- Warm Apple Cider: Nothing says autumn like a freshly poured mug of apple cider, enhancing the apple notes of the doughnut holes while keeping you warm.
- Spiced Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai create a harmonious pairing, making each bite of the doughnut holes even more delightful.
- Pumpkin Soup: Serve this velvety soup for a savory contrast to the sweetness of your doughnut holes, with its earthy flavors celebrating the season.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of root vegetables can introduce a hearty element and crunch, grounding your treat with a satisfying texture.
- Caramel Dipping Sauce: Drizzle or dip those doughnut holes for a decadent experience, enhancing the flavors and adding a touch of indulgence.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool complement to the fluffy warmth of your baked treats, making it an absolute indulgence.
- Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety hot chocolate makes for a delightful drink pairing, perfect for cozying up on chilly evenings.
- Ginger Snap Cookies: Their spicy crunch adds a delightful texture alongside the soft doughnut holes, enhancing your fall-themed dessert table.
- Pecan Pie: Celebrate the season with this classic dessert; its rich, gooey texture complements the light, fluffy doughnut holes beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
Room Temperature: Store the doughnut holes in a cool place in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their softness.
Fridge: If you prefer, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Warm them briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds before enjoying.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooled doughnut holes in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave briefly to enjoy later.
Reheating: To recapture the freshly baked texture, reheat frozen doughnut holes in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, or microwave for just 15-20 seconds.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, just scoop the chilled batter into the muffin pan and increase the baking time by a minute or two if necessary. The cinnamon sugar coating can also be prepared ahead of time; just keep it in a sealed bag or jar. To maintain their freshness and flavor, ensure the doughnut holes are coated in cinnamon sugar right before serving, giving you that delightful crunch and sweetness while saving valuable time during your busy mornings!
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best apple cider for the doughnut holes?
Absolutely! Choose a high-quality, fresh apple cider with no added preservatives for the best flavor. Look for brands that offer unfiltered or natural options, which tend to have a richer, more robust taste. A great apple cider should have a sweet and slightly tangy profile that will enhance your doughnut holes beautifully.
How should I store any leftover Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes?
You can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last a bit longer, refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Just be sure to warm them up briefly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I freeze the doughnut holes? How?
Sure thing! To freeze your cooled Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can stay fresh for up to 2 months. To enjoy, let them thaw at room temperature, or microwave them on low for 15-20 seconds to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven warmth.
What should I do if my doughnut holes turn out dense or heavy?
Don’t worry—this can easily be resolved! If your doughnut holes come out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Always mix until just combined. Additionally, double-check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can prevent proper rising. For fluffier results, consider gently folding in the dry ingredients rather than stirring vigorously.
Are there any allergens I should be aware of in this recipe?
Very good question! This recipe contains gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter), and eggs. If you’re baking for someone with allergies, you can make substitutions: use gluten-free flour blends, dairy-free butter, and flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) as an egg substitute. Just make sure to guide your guests on what ingredients are included, so everyone can enjoy safely!
Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes for Cozy Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a mini muffin pan by greasing it lightly.
- In a medium saucepan, bring 1 cup of apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until reduced to 1/2 cup.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled apple cider mixture, eggs, apple butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground cardamom, ground ginger, grated nutmeg, and kosher salt. Whisk until evenly mixed, then add to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared mini muffin pan, filling each cavity about 1/2 to 2/3 full. Tap the pan to release air bubbles.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until the tops spring back and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them.
- Once baked, cool for about 5 minutes on a wire rack, then gently run a butter knife around edges to release the doughnut holes.
- Melt unsalted butter in a skillet and stir in a splash of vanilla extract. In another bowl, mix granulated sugar with additional cinnamon.
- Brush each warm doughnut hole with browned butter and roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
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