Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts: A Sweet Taste of Autumn

Discovering the Cozy Charm of Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts

Autumn is whispering through the turning leaves and the cool, crisp air, bringing with it the irresistible aroma of apples. What better way to embrace this colorful season than whipping up some homemade Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts? Recently, I’ve been on a mission to veganize my favorite seasonal treats, ensuring each mouthful captures the cozy essence of autumn while sticking to my plant-based principles.

Just picture it: biting into a fluffy doughnut, spiced perfectly with cinnamon, and topped with a luscious apple cider glaze—it’s like being wrapped in a warm autumnal blanket! Since I’m all about making recipes as accessible as possible, I’ve simplified the process without compromising on taste. So, grab your apron, and let’s get ready to infuse your kitchen with the delectable scents of fall—vegan style!

The Magical Blend: Ingredients and Vegan Substitutes for Apple Cider Doughnuts

Crafting these autumnal delights calls for a mix of classic baking ingredients and a few clever vegan substitutes. The star of the show is undoubtedly the apple cider, which imparts a deep, rich apple flavor that’s essential for these doughnuts. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider, preferably fresh
• 1/4 cup (60ml) plant-based milk, almond or oat works great
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) apple sauce (as a vegan egg substitute)
• 1/3 cup (80ml) coconut oil, melted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the glaze:

• 1 cup (120g) powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Apple sauce replaces eggs, providing moisture and deepening the doughnuts’ apple flavor, while coconut oil steps in for butter, offering richness without any dairy.

Step-by-Step: How to Craft Your Own Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts

Making these doughnuts at home is a breeze, and trust me, the payoff is absolutely divine. Here’s how to bring them to life:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) and grease a 6-cavity doughnut pan with some coconut oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg together.
3. In another bowl, blend the apple cider, plant-based milk, sugar, apple sauce, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ones, stirring just until combined without overmixing.
5. Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared doughnut pan, filling each cavity about three-quarters full.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. For the glaze, simply whisk together powdered sugar, apple cider, and vanilla until smooth. Dip each cooled doughnut into the glaze, then set back on the wire rack to let the glaze harden.

Voila! Soon, your kitchen will be filled with delicious autumnal aromas that make your heart glow.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions: Making the Most of Your Autumn Treats

After glazing your beautiful Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts, it’s time to serve them in style. These treats are fantastic on their own but pairing them can create an even richer fall experience. Serve warm with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream for dessert, or enjoy with a steaming cup of chai for a snug snack.

For a truly indulgent breakfast, warm up a doughnut, drizzle with some vegan caramel, and toss a few toasted pecans on top. Pair this with a hot coffee on a chilly morning, and you’ve got yourself a little slice of autumn heaven.

So next time you’re longing for a taste of fall, whip up these Vegan Baked Apple Cider Doughnuts. They just might become your new favorite seasonal tradition—like they have in my own cozy kitchen. Enjoy the warmth, savor the flavors, and fall head over heels with every bite!

If you enjoyed this recipe or have suggestions on how we can improve it, please leave us a comment below. Also, make sure to check out other dishes I’ve created or stories I’ve written about food culture – here.