Do Share Recipe

I’ve always been obsessed with fall flavors, and nothing screams cozy like fresh Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts Recipe. After making these in my air fryer, I realized they’re quick, easy, and just as flavorful as the ones from the farmer’s market.

They’re soft, slightly spiced, and perfectly sweet. What’s even better? You can make them in under 20 minutes with no yeast. Let me walk you through this delightful recipe step by step. If you enjoy baked treats, you can also try Small Batch Pistachio Cream Cinnamon Rolls Recipe for a nutty, decadent twist on breakfast pastries.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need for these soft, spiced donuts. Each ingredient adds a special touch, so I recommend following the notes for the best results. You might also enjoy a sweet companion recipe like Banana Bread Batter Cinnamon Buns Recipe for a rich, comforting flavor.

2 cups gluten-free flour – ensures soft texture and works perfectly in air fryer baking
2 teaspoons baking powder – helps donuts rise nicely
½ teaspoon baking soda – adds fluffiness and lightness
½ teaspoon sea salt – balances sweetness
2 ½ teaspoons pumpkin spice, divided – gives that warm, cozy fall flavor
½ cup unsalted butter, melted – adds richness and moistness
1 large egg – binds the ingredients
½ cup maple syrup – natural sweetness, can substitute with honey or coconut sugar
½ cup apple cider – adds fruity flavor and moisture
½ cup unsweetened applesauce – keeps donuts soft and tender

Note: Serves 14 donuts

Variations

If you want to tweak the recipe, here are some options:

Use vegan butter and replace the egg with ¼ cup applesauce for a vegan version
Swap maple syrup with coconut sugar or raw honey for different sweetness
Roll in cinnamon sugar instead of pumpkin spice for a classic twist
Add finely chopped nuts or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 15-17 minutes

Equipment You Need

Air fryer – cooks donuts quickly and evenly
Egg bites or silicone donut mold – shapes the donuts perfectly
Mixing bowls – for combining wet and dry ingredients
Plastic bag or piping bag – to fill the donut molds neatly
Whisk and spoon – for mixing ingredients

How to Make Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts?

Mix Dry Ingredients

Whisk together gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, and half of the pumpkin spice. This ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.

Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix melted butter, egg, maple syrup, apple cider, and applesauce until smooth. This creates a rich, flavorful base for your donuts.

Fold and Fill

Slowly combine dry ingredients with wet ingredients, stirring until just incorporated. Overmixing can make donuts tough. Transfer batter into a bag, snip a corner, and fill molds ¾ full.

Air Fry the Donuts

Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Donuts are ready when a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool slightly before adding toppings.

Coat with Sugar

Melt 1-2 tablespoons butter and combine 4 tablespoons sugar with 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice. Brush donuts with butter and roll in sugar mixture for a sweet, spiced finish.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

I like to let the batter sit for 5 minutes; it makes donuts even fluffier.
Don’t overfill the molds; donuts expand while cooking.
I always brush butter before coating in sugar to get an even, glossy finish.
Use fresh pumpkin spice for the most vibrant flavor.

How to Serve Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts?

Serve warm for the best experience. I love placing them on a parchment-lined plate and garnishing with a light dusting of extra pumpkin spice. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee, tea, or warm apple cider.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick snapshot of one donut:

Calories: 188 – a cozy treat without overindulgence
Protein: 3g – thanks to eggs and flour
Carbohydrates: 30g – from applesauce, maple syrup, and flour
Fat: 7g – from butter, making them moist and rich

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing: Keep in an airtight container on the counter for 2-3 days. They stay soft and flavorful.

Freezing: Place cooled donuts in a freezer-proof container and freeze up to 3 months. Perfect for making ahead.

Reheating: Warm in the air fryer at 375°F for 2-3 minutes, or use a microwave for a quick snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

I adore this recipe for so many reasons:

Quick and easy – under 20 minutes from start to finish
Flavorful – soft, spiced, and perfectly sweet
Customizable – vegan, sugar-free, or nutty variations possible
Kid-friendly – everyone loves mini donut holes
Air fryer magic – crispy edges without deep frying

Ben Carraoli