Description

These baked cinnamon apple cider donut bars offer the nostalgic, spiced flavor of classic cider donuts without the deep-frying hassle. Moist, tender, and topped with a thick, glossy apple cider glaze, they are perfect for autumn gatherings and easy enough for bakers of all skill levels.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
1/3 cup (80ml) vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup (240ml) pure apple cider
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 1/2 cups (180g) powdered sugar (for glaze)
2 tablespoons reduced apple cider syrup (for glaze)
1–2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)
Pinch of salt (for glaze)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan and line with parchment paper if desired.
Pour 1 cup apple cider into a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes until reduced to approximately 2 tablespoons of thick syrup. Set aside to cool completely.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined and free of lumps.
In a separate bowl, whisk eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients. Gently fold together with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix. A few small lumps are okay.
Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Let bars cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, whisk the cooled reduced cider syrup, powdered sugar, pinch of salt, and 1-2 tablespoons milk to make the glaze. Adjust consistency as needed.
Drizzle glaze over the cooled bars and spread evenly. Let set for 10-15 minutes before cutting into squares.

Notes

Ensure apple cider is reduced to concentrate flavor. Bars must be completely cool before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For vegan adaptation, use flax eggs and plant-based milk/oil. For gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bar
Calories: 280
Sugar: 32
Sodium: 180
Fat: 6
Saturated Fat: 1
Carbohydrates: 52
Fiber: 1
Protein: 4

Keywords: cinnamon apple cider donut bars, baked donuts, fall baking, easy dessert, apple cider recipe, autumn treats, gluten-free option