Baked cinnamon sugar apple cider doughnut holes are my absolute favorite fall treat, and I’m so excited to share how to make them! There’s something magical about the aroma of cinnamon and warm apples filling the kitchen, isn’t there? I remember the first time I tried making these, I was aiming for an easy baked cinnamon apples recipe that my kids would love, and they were an instant hit. The soft, fluffy texture and that irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating just scream cozy autumn vibes. They’re so simple to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
You’re going to adore these little bites of autumn joy for so many reasons:
- The taste is incredible – a perfect blend of warm spices and sweet apple cider.
- They are surprisingly quick to make, with a total time of just 35 minutes.
- Compared to traditional doughnuts, these baked cinnamon apples are a lighter option.
- They’re budget-friendly, using common pantry staples for a delicious treat.
- The entire family will adore these sweet cinnamon baked apples, from the youngest to the oldest.
- They’re incredibly versatile, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a delightful baked cinnamon apple side dish.
- The comforting aroma of cinnamon and baked apples will fill your home, creating a cozy atmosphere.
- Making these sweet cinnamon baked apples is a fun activity for kids to help with in the kitchen.
Ingredients for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating some truly delightful cinnamon sugar baked apples. The magic happens with a few simple pantry staples and the star ingredient: apple cider! Here’s what you’ll need to make these easy baked cinnamon apples:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – this forms the soft, fluffy base
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – for sweetness in the dough
- 1 tsp baking powder – helps them rise beautifully
- 1/2 tsp baking soda – works with the acidity for lift
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon – essential for that warm spice
- 1/4 tsp salt – balances the sweetness
- 1 large egg – binds everything together
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – adds richness
- 1/4 cup milk – for moisture
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – enhances the flavor
- 1 cup apple cider, reduced to 1/4 cup and cooled – this concentrated cider is key for that authentic apple flavor
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – for coating the warm doughnut holes
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – mixed with cinnamon for the irresistible coating
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon – for the perfect cinnamon sugar baked apples topping
How to Make Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
Making these delightful doughnut holes is easier than you might think, and the aroma alone is worth it! Follow these steps for perfectly simple baked cinnamon apples.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a mini muffin tin to prevent sticking. This ensures your baked cinnamon sugar apples come out cleanly.
- Step 2: In a small saucepan, simmer 1 cup of apple cider over medium heat. Let it bubble away until it reduces to about 1/4 cup. This concentrates the flavor beautifully. Allow the reduced cider to cool completely before using it in the batter.
- Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp salt. Make sure these dry ingredients are well combined for even distribution.
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 large egg, 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter, 1/4 cup milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced apple cider. Whisk until smooth and well incorporated.
- Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix with a spatula or spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few streaks of flour are okay. Overmixing can make your simple baked cinnamon apples tough.
- Step 6: Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full. This allows them room to puff up.
- Step 7: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a doughnut hole comes out clean. The kitchen will smell amazing!
- Step 8: While the baked cinnamon sugar apple cider doughnut holes are still warm, brush them generously with the remaining 3 tbsp melted unsalted butter. Immediately roll them in the mixture of 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tsp ground cinnamon. This coating is what makes them truly special.
- Step 9: Serve these warm cinnamon sugar baked apples immediately for the best texture and flavor, or let them cool slightly.
Pro Tips for the Best Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
Want to elevate your baked cinnamon sugar apple game? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up that make these doughnut holes truly exceptional:
- Don’t overmix the batter: This is crucial for a tender, cake-like texture. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated.
- Reduce the cider properly: Simmering the apple cider until it’s a syrupy reduction concentrates its flavor, giving you that intense apple taste without making the batter too wet.
- Coat while warm: For the cinnamon sugar coating to really stick and create that classic doughnut hole finish, make sure to roll them in the mixture while they’re still warm from the oven.
- Mini muffin tin is key: Using a mini muffin tin ensures you get those perfectly bite-sized portions that bake evenly and quickly.
What’s the secret to perfect baked cinnamon sugar apple cider doughnut holes?
The real secret lies in the concentrated apple cider reduction. It infuses the dough with a deep, authentic apple flavor that you just can’t get from apple extract alone. It’s a key step in the best baked cinnamon apples recipe. For more baking inspiration, check out our recipes.
Can I make baked cinnamon sugar apple cider doughnut holes ahead of time?
You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, I recommend baking them fresh. The cinnamon sugar coating is also best applied right after baking.
How do I avoid common mistakes with baked cinnamon sugar apple cider doughnut holes?
The most common pitfalls are overmixing the batter, which leads to tough doughnut holes, and not reducing the apple cider enough, which can make them too wet. Also, ensure you don’t overbake them; they should be lightly golden. Learn more about proper baking techniques at King Arthur Baking.
Best Ways to Serve Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
These delightful little treats are incredibly versatile. For a truly decadent experience, serve them warm as a standalone dessert baked cinnamon apples. They’re also fantastic alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a more casual occasion, enjoy them as a sweet breakfast item with a cup of coffee or tea. They make a wonderful addition to a brunch spread, especially when paired with fruit salad or yogurt. You can even serve them as a comforting baked cinnamon apple side dish during fall gatherings. For other sweet treats, try our caramel brownie cheesecake.
Nutrition Facts for Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
When you’re enjoying these delightful baked cinnamon apples, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: 85 calories
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 0mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, so treat these cinnamon sugar baked apples as a delicious guide. For more healthy options, explore our Zepbound weight loss recipes.
How to Store and Reheat Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
Once these delightful baked cinnamon sugar apple cider doughnut holes have cooled slightly, you’ll want to store them properly to maintain their deliciousness. For the best experience, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, perfect for grabbing a quick snack. If you want to keep them longer, they freeze beautifully for up to 3 months! Just wrap them well to prevent freezer burn. To enjoy those warm cinnamon sugar baked apples again, simply reheat them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. This ensures they remain tender and flavorful, just like when they were first baked. For other dessert ideas, consider our frozen banana Snickers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes
What makes these baked cinnamon sugar apple cider doughnut holes so special?
The secret is the concentrated apple cider reduction, which gives them an intense, authentic apple flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s a key element that elevates them beyond a simple baked apples with cinnamon and sugar recipe, making them truly irresistible.
Can I use regular apples instead of apple cider?
While this recipe specifically calls for apple cider reduction for that unique flavor, you can adapt it by finely dicing about 1/2 cup of a sweet baking apple like Honeycrisp or Fuji and adding it to the batter. However, the cider reduction provides a distinct taste that makes this baked apples with cinnamon and sugar recipe so unique.
Are these considered a healthy baked cinnamon apples option?
Compared to traditional fried doughnuts, these are a healthier alternative because they are baked, not fried. They use wholesome ingredients like reduced apple cider for flavor. While they do contain sugar, they are a satisfying treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. For more information on healthy eating, consult with a professional or visit resources like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
How do I get the cinnamon sugar coating to stick evenly?
The key is to coat the doughnut holes while they are still warm from the oven. The melted butter acts as the “glue” for the cinnamon sugar mixture. Rolling them gently in the coating ensures each little baked cinnamon sugar apple gets that perfect sweet, spiced crust.
Variations of Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple Cider Doughnut Holes You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe for these delightful baked cinnamon sugar apple cider doughnut holes, why not get a little creative? There are so many fun ways to adapt them! For a gluten-free twist, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, use your favorite plant-based milk and a dairy-free butter substitute. You could also try baking them in an air fryer for an even quicker cooking time – just follow the same temperature and time guidelines, checking for doneness. These versatile treats also make a fantastic baked cinnamon apple side dish that can be customized with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a pinch of cardamom in the cinnamon sugar coating for an extra flavor boost. For another great side dish, try our crispy roasted cauliflower.
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Baked Cinnamon Sugar Apple: 35 Min Cozy Treat
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 24 doughnut holes 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These baked cinnamon sugar apple cider doughnut holes are soft, fluffy, and bursting with apple cider flavor. Coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture, they’re the perfect fall treat for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup apple cider, reduced to 1/4 cup and cooled
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini muffin tin.
- In a small saucepan, simmer apple cider over medium heat until reduced to about 1/4 cup. Let cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the egg, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and reduced apple cider.
- Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Spoon batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the doughnut holes are still warm, brush them with melted butter and roll them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For best results, do not overmix the batter.
- Ensure the apple cider is reduced and cooled before adding to the wet ingredients.
- The cinnamon sugar coating will not stick as well if the doughnut holes are completely cooled.
- These are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Desserts, Brunch, Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (1 doughnut hole)
- Calories: 85 calories
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 2.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
