Easy Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

If you’ve ever wished you could bring the sweet, cozy magic of fall into your kitchen without spending hours kneading dough or waiting for yeast to rise, this recipe is your dream come true. These Easy Apple Cider Glazed Donuts are soft, pillowy, and bursting with warm apple and spice flavors. Imagine biting into a donut with a tender interior and then getting that sweet, tangy glaze that makes your taste buds dance—trust me, it’s addictive.

The best part? They’re made from refrigerated biscuit dough, so you skip the complicated steps but still get a bakery-quality treat. Perfect for weekend breakfasts, brunch with friends, or a cozy treat with your favorite coffee. This one’s a game-changer for anyone craving homemade donuts without the fuss.

Recipe Origin:

This recipe is inspired by classic apple cider donuts from fall festivals but simplified for a quick, easy homemade version. Using refrigerated biscuit dough keeps them soft and light, while the apple cider glaze adds a seasonal, tangy sweetness that makes these donuts irresistible.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need:

• Medium mixing bowl
• Small bowl for glaze
• Rolling pin (optional, for shaping)
• Frying pan or deep fryer
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Paper towels for draining
• Whisk or fork for glaze
• Cooling rack

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Why You’ll Love Easy Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

Quick and Effortless: Forget hours of dough prep. These donuts come together in under 30 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for last-minute treats.

Fall-Inspired Flavors: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider come together to create that comforting fall flavor that fills your kitchen with cozy scents.

Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will be lining up for seconds (or thirds). They’re soft, sweet, and just the right size for sharing.

Customizable: You can tweak the spices, add a drizzle of chocolate, or even sprinkle crushed nuts over the glaze for an extra touch of decadence.

Versatile: Serve them warm for breakfast, pack them for a snack, or use them as a charming addition to brunch spreads.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results:

• Use a neutral oil like canola for frying to avoid overpowering flavors.
• Keep the oil at a medium temperature to ensure donuts cook evenly without burning.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan—fry in batches for the best texture.
• Let the donuts cool slightly before glazing to prevent the glaze from sliding off.
• Warm the apple cider slightly for easier mixing into the powdered sugar.

Ingredients:

Here’s the magic of these donuts—it’s a short list, but each ingredient plays a starring role:

Refrigerated Biscuit Dough: This is your shortcut to soft, fluffy donuts without any complicated prep. Avoid flaky or butter-flavored varieties; you want a plain biscuit dough for the perfect texture.

Powdered Sugar: The base for the glaze, adding sweet creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the spiced dough.

Apple Cider: Adds a subtle tang and seasonal flavor, turning a simple glaze into something extraordinary.

Nutmeg and Cinnamon: Classic warming spices that give each bite that cozy, aromatic feel you crave in fall treats.

Sugar: Used for frying coating or sprinkling to enhance sweetness and texture.

Canola Oil: Neutral oil that ensures a golden-brown exterior without overpowering the delicate flavors.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions:

Let’s dive into the steps to create these delicious apple cider donuts:

Prepare the Dough: Open your refrigerated biscuit dough and gently separate the biscuits. Flatten each one slightly with your fingers or a rolling pin if needed.

Heat the Oil: Pour canola oil into a frying pan or deep fryer and heat to medium (around 350°F / 175°C). Use a thermometer if possible for consistent results.

Fry the Donuts: Carefully place the flattened biscuits into the hot oil. Fry for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, warm apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. Adjust consistency with a splash more cider if needed.

Glaze the Donuts: Dip each warm donut into the glaze, ensuring it’s coated evenly. You can drizzle or fully submerge—either way, the donuts are going to taste incredible.

Serve Warm: Enjoy immediately, or let them cool slightly for a snack that keeps well. Each bite should be soft, fluffy, and sweet with a touch of spice.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 8-10 donuts
Calories per serving: Approx. 220 (without glaze, about 280 with glaze)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve Easy Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

These donuts are versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks:

Hot Beverages: Coffee, chai, or hot apple cider complement the sweet, spiced flavors perfectly.

Fruit: Fresh apple slices, berries, or a fruit compote add a refreshing balance.

Creamy Accents: Serve with whipped cream or a light drizzle of melted chocolate for extra indulgence.

As a Breakfast Treat: Serve with scrambled eggs or bacon for a fun, seasonal breakfast spread.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prep Ahead: You can separate the biscuit dough in advance and keep ready to fry for quick weekday treats.

Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven to refresh softness.

Freezing: Donuts can be frozen after frying (without glaze) in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

Double the Batch: This recipe scales easily if you’re feeding a crowd or want extra to freeze for future cravings.

Variations to Try

• Add a pinch of cardamom or cloves to the glaze for an extra layer of flavor.
• Top with chopped nuts, sprinkles, or shredded coconut for texture and visual appeal.
• For an indulgent twist, dip in melted chocolate before glazing.
• Use maple syrup in the glaze for a different seasonal flavor.

Additional Tips

• Even Frying: Keep donuts in a single layer in the pan to avoid uneven cooking.
• Consistent Shape: Flatten biscuits evenly so they cook uniformly and the glaze sticks better.
• Experiment with Glaze: Try adding vanilla extract or a hint of bourbon for an adult-friendly version.
• Oil Temperature: Medium heat is key—too hot and the exterior burns before the inside cooks, too low and the donuts absorb excess oil.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I bake these instead of frying?
A1: Yes! Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes until golden brown. Glaze afterward.

Q2: Can I use different biscuit dough?
A2: Stick to plain refrigerated dough for best results. Flaky or butter-flavored dough changes the texture.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Refresh in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q4: Can I make the glaze thicker or thinner?
A4: Absolutely. Add more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze or a splash more cider for a thinner coating.

Q5: Can I use another type of oil?
A5: Neutral oils like vegetable, sunflower, or grapeseed work well. Avoid olive oil—it can alter the flavor.

Q6: Can I make them mini donuts?
A6: Yes! Cut biscuit dough into smaller pieces and fry for less time. Perfect for bite-sized treats.

Q7: Are these gluten-free?
A7: Only if you use gluten-free biscuit dough. Otherwise, standard refrigerated biscuits contain wheat.

Q8: Can I add fruit to the glaze?
A8: A small amount of apple puree or finely chopped apples works beautifully for extra flavor and texture.

Q9: How long should I let them cool before glazing?
A9: Let them cool for 2–3 minutes so the glaze adheres without sliding off.

Q10: Can I double or triple the recipe?
A10: Yes! Fry in batches to maintain even cooking and texture.

Conclusion

These Easy Apple Cider Glazed Donuts are proof that you don’t need complicated recipes to make something extraordinary. With soft, tender dough, sweet apple cider glaze, and a perfect touch of spice, they’re ideal for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack anytime. Whether you’re impressing guests, indulging in a solo treat, or creating a seasonal tradition, these donuts bring warmth, flavor, and a little bit of magic to your kitchen. Trust me—once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again. Cozy, easy, and downright irresistible!

Easy Apple Cider Glazed Donuts RECIPE