If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, mouthwatering treat that fits perfectly into a gluten free lifestyle, I’ve got just the thing for you! This Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts Recipe brings together the warm spices of fall, the sweet tang of apple cider, and the perfect light yet tender donut bite—all without any gluten. Trust me, once you try these donuts fresh out of the oven, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less.
Why You Should Make This Recipe
Deliciously Seasonal Flavors: The reduced apple cider and cinnamon create the perfect fall-inspired taste that’s hard to resist.
Gluten Free & Friendly: Made with almond and tapioca flours, it’s a safe and satisfying option for those avoiding gluten.
Simple & Straightforward: The ingredients are pantry staples and the process is quick, making it ideal for busy days.
Perfectly Soft Donuts: These bake up light and tender with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and that classic cinnamon sugar coating for a delightful finish.
Ingredients & Substitutions
This Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that not only provide great taste but also give the donuts their ideal texture and aromatic warmth. Each component works in harmony—from the nutty almond flour to the sweet apple cider reduction—to create a balance that will leave you craving more.
- Apple Cider: It’s reduced to concentrate the flavor, bringing a rich, tangy sweetness essential for that classic donut taste.
- Almond Flour: Adds a nutty depth and moist texture while keeping the recipe gluten free.
- Tapioca Flour: Helps give the donuts a light and chewy bite, preventing them from feeling too dense.
- Baking Soda & Cinnamon: These create lift and infuse the donuts with warm spice notes.
- Eggs & Butter: Provide moisture and richness, ensuring every bite is soft and flavorful.
- Almond Milk: A mild dairy alternative that keeps the donuts tender without overpowering their flavor.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: A simple, buttery coating that gives these donuts their irresistible finish.
How to Make Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts Recipe
Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
Start by pouring 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan, then bring it to a boil over medium heat. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until it reduces to about ⅓ cup. This step intensifies the apple flavor and adds moisture to your donuts—just be patient and let the cider work its magic for 12 to 15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients
While the cider cools, whisk together your almond flour, tapioca flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that your donuts will rise evenly and have a balanced spiced flavor throughout.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, whisk the eggs, sugar, melted butter, almond milk, vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced apple cider until smooth. This blend combines sweetness, richness, and the signature apple note that will make the donuts uniquely delicious.
Step 4: Combine Batter and Bake
Fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the batter light and airy. Spoon or pipe the batter evenly into a greased donut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full. Pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 18 to 20 minutes. The donuts are ready when a toothpick comes out clean and they’re lightly golden.
Step 5: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the donuts cool for a few minutes, prepare your cinnamon sugar topping by mixing ground cinnamon and sugar together in a bowl. Melt some butter in another small dish, then dip or brush the warm donuts lightly with butter before rolling them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This last touch gives the donuts that classic, irresistible coating everyone loves.
How to Serve Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra burst of flavor and charm, try sprinkling a little powdered sugar or finely chopped toasted nuts over your glazed donuts. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream can also elevate this treat for special occasions or cozy gatherings.
Side Dishes
Pair these donuts with a warm cup of herbal or chai tea, coffee, or even a spiced apple cider drink to complement their sweet, spiced notes. Fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait can balance the indulgence and provide a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your donuts on a rustic wooden board or a charming cake stand layered with autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks for a seasonal vibe. Consider stacking mini donuts with bits of fresh apple slices threaded on skewers for a fun, shareable display. It’s perfect for brunch dates or festive get-togethers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your delicious donuts in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft for up to 4 days. If you want to extend their freshness, refrigeration is also an option for up to 6 days—just be sure to warm them gently before serving to bring back that tender texture.
Freezing
Don’t worry if you made too many! Once completely cooled, freeze your donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for 2 to 3 months—ready for you whenever a craving strikes.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the frozen or refrigerated donuts in a preheated oven or air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp on the edges. If needed, refresh the cinnamon sugar coating for the best flavor and texture—just like they came straight from the oven!
FAQs
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Can I substitute the almond flour with another flour?
Almond flour provides moisture and a slightly nutty flavor that’s key to these donuts’ texture. If needed, you can try using a gluten free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture might be a bit different—possibly denser or less tender. For best results, stick to almond flour or experiment with a mix that includes coconut or oat flour.
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Why do you reduce the apple cider in this recipe?
Reducing the apple cider concentrates its flavor and sweetness while removing excess water. This step intensifies the apple essence in the donuts without making the batter too wet, ensuring a perfectly tender texture and rich taste.
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Are these donuts suitable for paleo diets?
This recipe uses almond flour and tapioca flour, which are paleo-friendly ingredients, but the sugar content might vary depending on your strictness. You can substitute the white sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup (adjusting amounts accordingly) to make it more paleo-compliant.
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Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?
While a donut pan shapes the batter perfectly and helps with even baking, you can bake the batter in a muffin tin for donut-hole-sized bites or shape small rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet for a more rustic donut look. Adjust baking time accordingly and keep an eye on doneness.
Final Thoughts
This Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts Recipe is hands-down one of my favorite ways to bring seasonal flavors into a cozy, comforting treat that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, serving them at a brunch, or just sneaking a few bites on a chilly afternoon, these donuts will never disappoint. So go ahead—whip up a batch, breathe in that amazing aroma, and enjoy every sweet moment!
Print
Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Gluten Free Apple Cider Donuts are a soft, moist, and flavorful treat perfect for fall or any time you crave a sweet snack without gluten. Made with almond and tapioca flours, reduced apple cider, and coated in cinnamon sugar, these donuts are baked to perfection for a delightful, lighter indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Donuts:
- 1 cup apple cider reduced to about ⅓ cup
- 2 ¼ cups blanched almond flour
- ¾ cup tapioca flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- ¾ cup white sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp almond milk
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- Cooking oil spray to grease donut pan
For the Topping:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup white sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Reduce the Apple Cider: Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally for 12 to 15 minutes, until it reduces to about ⅓ cup. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan with cooking oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the almond flour, tapioca flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, white sugar, melted butter, almond milk, vanilla extract, and the reduced apple cider until smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the batter will be thick.
- Fill Donut Pan: Spoon or pipe the batter evenly into the donut pan cavities, filling each about ¾ full to allow room for rising.
- Bake the Donuts: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Topping: In one bowl, mix together the white sugar and cinnamon. Place the melted butter in another small bowl.
- Coat Donuts: While the donuts are still warm, lightly brush or dip each donut in melted butter, then roll it in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
- Enjoy and Serve: Serve the donuts warm or at room temperature. They taste even better the next day!
Notes
- How to Store: Keep donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or refrigerate for up to 6 days. Warm slightly before serving for the best texture.
- How to Freeze: After completely cooling, freeze the donuts in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2–3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer before adding the cinnamon sugar coating if needed.
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