What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These caramel apple cider donut holes are the perfect treat for fall, combining cozy flavors in a bite-sized package. You’ll love how easy they’re to make, even if you’re not a baking pro.
The warm spices and sweet caramel drizzle make them irresistible, while the soft, fluffy texture will have you reaching for more.
Plus, they’re a fun way to enjoy the classic taste of apple cider in a new, delicious form.
Recipe

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with these Caramel Apple Cider Donut Holes. These bite-sized treats are infused with the rich taste of apple cider, coated in cinnamon sugar, and drizzled with a luscious caramel glaze. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy snack, they’re sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups apple cider
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
- ½ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Reduce the apple cider by simmering it in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces to ½ cup. Let it cool.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, egg, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the reduced apple cider.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared mini muffin pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- While the donut holes are baking, mix 1 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon in a bowl.
- Once baked, let the donut holes cool slightly, then roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade caramel sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Time:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Serving:
Makes approximately 24 donut holes
Calories:
Approximately 120 calories per donut hole
Cuisine:
American
Nutrition
Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Below is an approximate breakdown per serving:
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 120 kcal |
Fat | 5g |
Carbs | 18g |
Sugar | 10g |
Protein | 1g |
Sodium | 80mg |
What To Serve With It
When I’m enjoying these caramel apple cider donut holes, I love pairing them with something that complements their cozy, fall-inspired flavors.
For pairing options, I often go with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream—it’s like a mini dessert party!
Beverage suggestions are just as fun: a warm mug of spiced apple cider or a creamy latte feels like a hug in a cup.
If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll add a drizzle of caramel sauce to everything.
It’s all about creating that perfect balance of sweet, warm, and comforting. Trust me, it’s a match made in fall heaven!