Fall in a Donut: My Go-To Gluten-Free Apple Cider Donut Recipe

Okay, let’s be real – is there anything better than that first crisp breeze of fall? The leaves are turning gorgeous colors, and my brain immediately switches to craving all things apple. And nothing says "autumn" more than a warm apple cider donut flavored with spices.

The problem is that it can be quite difficult to locate a gluten-free donut that is actually satisfying at a bakery. I've been there, so believe me. Because of this, I made what I believe to be the ULTIMATE gluten-free apple cider donut in my own home. And you know what? It's effortless!

Forget finicky ingredients or intricate methods. Light and fluffy, these baked donuts are filled with the soothing flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider. In all honesty, they're the ideal treat for a potluck with friends, a relaxing afternoon with a mug of hot cocoa, or even just a brief bit of self-care.

Why I'm Obsessed with this Recipe:

Super Simple: Even if you're new to gluten-free baking, this recipe is totally doable.

Unbelievable Flavor: The blend of apple cider, warm spices, and just the right amount of sweetness is just… chef’s kiss.

Baked, Not Fried: No need to deal with hot oil or the mess! These donuts get perfectly tender in the oven.

Perfect Texture: We're talking light and airy, not dense and sad.

Everyone Loves Them: Even my non-gluten-free friends are always asking for these.

Ready to bake? Here's what you need:

Ingredients:

1 ½ cups (190g) gluten-free all-purpose flour blend (with xanthan gum). I've had great luck with Bob's Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour or King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour.

½ cup (100g) granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – I usually reach for Simply Organic Ground Cinnamon.

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg - McCormick Ground Nutmeg works great!

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup (120ml) unsweetened apple cider. I love the flavor of Martinelli's 100% Pure Apple Cider or R.W. Knudsen Family Organic Apple Cider.

¼ cup (60ml) vegetable oil or melted coconut oil

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping (Optional, but trust me, you want it):

¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Again, Simply Organic Ground Cinnamon is my go-to.

2 tablespoons (30g) melted unsalted butter

Let's Bake! Here's How:

Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your donut pan. I use this Wilton Non-Stick 6-Cavity Donut Pan, but USA Pan Bakeware Nonstick Donut Pan is also great.

Whisk the Dry Stuff: In a large bowl – a set like this OXO Good Grips Mixing Bowl Set is super helpful – whisk together your flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Combine the Wet Stuff: In another bowl (you can use one from that same OXO Good Grips Mixing Bowl Set!), whisk together the apple cider, oil, egg, and vanilla extract.

Mix Them Up: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry, mixing until everything is just combined. Don't overmix! A few streaks of flour are fine.

Fill the Pan: Spoon or pipe the batter into your prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.

Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool: Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before carefully moving them to a wire rack - I like this Checkered Chef Cooling Rack – to cool completely.

Make the Magic Topping: While those donuts are cooling, melt the butter in a shallow dish. In another shallow dish, mix your sugar and cinnamon for the topping.

Coat 'Em Up!: Dip each donut into the melted butter, and then into the cinnamon sugar mixture, making sure to shake off any extra.

Enjoy! These are best when they’re fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or two.

A Few Tips for Gluten-Free Baking Success:

Choose a Good GF Flour: Not all gluten-free flours are the same. Using a blend with xanthan gum is key!

Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can make your donuts tough. Mix until just combined.

Room Temperature is Your Friend: Using room-temperature ingredients helps everything mix together better.

Grease Your Pan Well: A little extra grease makes all the difference when removing your donuts.

Keep an Eye on Bake Time: Oven temps can vary a little, so use the toothpick test!

Get Creative! Add a glaze, some sprinkles, or whatever you’re in the mood for.

Mix It Up: Variations & Substitutions

Apple Cider Glaze: Skip the cinnamon sugar and whisk powdered sugar with apple cider for a simple glaze.

Spice it Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the batter for extra flavor.

Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter, and try a flax egg instead of a regular egg.

Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan for smaller portions.

Final Thoughts:

Seriously, these gluten-free apple cider donuts are proof that you can have your gluten-free fall treats! They’re so easy to make and always bring a smile. I really hope you love this recipe as much as I do.

If you try these out, please leave a comment below and let me know how they turned out! And definitely share a photo on social media using #beglutenfree – I can't wait to see what you make!

Happy Baking!

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