There’s something magical about the cozy flavors of fall — crisp apples, warm spices, and comforting baked goods. And when you combine all of that into one bite-sized treat, you get Apple Cider Donut Holes — a heavenly fusion of apple flavor and spiced sugar that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re craving something to go with your morning coffee or looking to impress at your next autumn gathering, these easy, homemade apple cider donut holes are the answer.
In this recipe article, you’ll learn how to make the best homemade apple cider donut holes, with pro tips, common mistakes to avoid, variations, and everything you need to know to get that perfect cinnamon-sugar-coated bite every time.
🍎 Why You’ll Love These Apple Cider Donut Holes
Quick and easy to make at home
Packed with real apple cider flavor
Soft, fluffy interior with a golden, crisp exterior
Rolled in a spiced cinnamon-sugar coating
No yeast required — ready in under 30 minutes
Whether you’re making them for a fall brunch, Halloween party, or just because — these little donuts are guaranteed to disappear fast!
🔍 What Are Apple Cider Donut Holes?
Apple cider donut holes are mini versions of the classic apple cider donuts. They’re made with apple cider reduced down for concentrated flavor, and infused with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These donut holes are either deep-fried or baked, then rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture that gives them their signature sparkle and cozy finish.
🍩 Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to make apple cider donut holes from scratch:
📝 Donut Batter:
1 cup apple cider (reduced to ½ cup)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¾ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
⅛ tsp ground cloves (optional)
¼ tsp salt
1 large egg
⅓ cup light brown sugar
¼ cup granulated sugar
½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
3 tbsp melted unsalted butter
1 tsp vanilla extract
🧈 Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
3 tbsp melted butter (for brushing if baked, or to help coating stick)
Pro Tip: Reducing the apple cider is crucial. It intensifies the flavor without adding excess liquid to your batter.
🍳 How to Make Apple Cider Donut Holes (Step-by-Step)
Follow these easy instructions for perfect apple cider donut holes every time!
🔥 Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan.
Simmer over medium heat until it reduces to about ½ cup (takes 10–15 minutes).
Let it cool completely.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip this step! Reduced cider = more concentrated flavor.
🥣 Step 2: Prepare the Donut Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
In another bowl, mix the egg, brown sugar, granulated sugar, buttermilk, vanilla, melted butter, and the cooled, reduced apple cider.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Don’t overmix — the dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
🧊 Step 3: Chill the Dough (Optional but Helpful)
Chill for 30 minutes to make it easier to roll into balls. This also helps develop flavor and structure.
🍩 Step 4: Shape and Cook the Donut Holes
For Frying (Classic Method):
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep saucepan or fryer.
Scoop 1 tbsp of dough and roll into balls.
Fry in small batches for 2–3 minutes, turning to brown evenly.
Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
For Baking:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a mini muffin tin or donut hole pan.
Spoon or pipe the batter into molds, filling ¾ full.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden brown.
🍥 Step 5: Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While warm, brush each donut hole with melted butter.
Toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
Pro Tip: Coating while warm helps the sugar stick better and creates a melt-in-your-mouth crust.
🍽️ Nutritional Value (Per 1 Donut Hole)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 95 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13 g |
| Sugars | 7 g |
| Protein | 1.5 g |
| Fat | 4.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 0.4 g |
| Sodium | 80 mg |
Note: Based on deep-fried version; baked will have slightly fewer calories.
🍂 Tips & Variations
✅ Pro Tips:
Use fresh apple cider (not apple juice) for the best flavor.
Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature.
Don’t skip reducing the cider — it’s essential for rich apple taste.
Let donut holes cool slightly before coating to avoid soggy sugar.
🔄 Variations:
Stuffed Version: Insert a small apple pie filling center before frying.
Maple Glazed: Skip the sugar coating and drizzle with maple glaze instead.
Baked Version: Use an air fryer or oven if you prefer less oil.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and egg replacer.
🧊 Storage & Reheating
🧺 How to Store:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days.
🔥 Reheating:
Oven: Warm at 300°F for 5–7 minutes.
Microwave: Heat for 10–15 seconds (may soften coating).
Air Fryer: 2–3 minutes at 320°F brings back crispness!
Avoid: Reheating in a moist environment or storing in plastic bags, which can make them soggy.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using apple juice instead of cider: Apple juice is too sweet and lacks the depth of cider.
Not reducing the cider: This makes the batter watery and bland.
Overmixing the batter: Leads to tough donut holes.
Frying at too low or high temperature: Can result in greasy or burnt donuts.
❓ FAQs About Apple Cider Donut Holes
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough in advance and refrigerate overnight. Fry or bake the next day.
2. Can I freeze apple cider donut holes?
Absolutely. Freeze without the sugar coating. Thaw and warm before tossing in cinnamon sugar.
3. What’s the difference between apple cider and apple juice?
Apple cider is unfiltered and has a deeper, more tangy flavor, while apple juice is sweet and filtered.
4. Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes! While frying gives the traditional texture, baking is a great alternative. They’re still fluffy and flavorful.
📌 Final Thoughts
These Apple Cider Donut Holes are everything we love about fall in one delightful bite — sweet, spiced, and irresistibly soft. Whether you’re baking them for your family or a seasonal gathering, they’re bound to become a go-to favorite. And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional baker to make them!
🍎✨ Save this recipe, pin it for later, or share it with a friend who LOVES cozy fall treats. Let’s spread the cinnamon-sugar joy one donut hole at a time!
