Name: Irish Apple Cake Donuts with Whiskey Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Irish
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1 pound Granny Smith apples, cored, peeled, and chopped into ½-inch pieces (about 3 cups); 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus more for serving; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 2 large eggs, beaten; ¾ cup granulated sugar; ¾ cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Cooking spray; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons Irish whiskey; 2 tablespoons whole milk

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 12 reviews

If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly captures the heartwarming charm of autumn, you’ve got to try this Irish Apple Cake Donuts with Whiskey Glaze Recipe. These baked donuts are wonderfully tender with a melt-in-your-mouth crumb, packed with tender chunks of Granny Smith apples, and finished with a luscious whiskey glaze that brings an indulgent twist to a classic treat. It’s as cozy as a warm sweater and as festive as an Irish gathering, making these donuts an irresistible delight for any occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a black metal donut baking tray with six spaces, each filled with thick, light beige batter with a creamy texture. Next to the tray is a white bowl containing more of the same batter, with a wooden spoon resting inside it. Under the bowl, there is a dark green cloth lying on a white marbled surface. The batter looks smooth and ready to be baked, with some batter slightly spilling over the edges of the tray. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Irish Apple Cake Donuts with Whiskey Glaze Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each element, from the bright tartness of the apples to the warming spices, plays a crucial role in giving these donuts their signature autumn mood.

Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Adds rich moisture and tenderness to the batter.
Granny Smith apples (1 pound): Provides a crisp tartness and juicy texture, perfectly balancing the sweetness.
Brown sugar (2 tablespoons): Enhances the natural fruit flavor with a hint of caramel.
All-purpose flour (2 cups): Builds the structure for those perfectly cakey donuts.
Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Gives the donuts a light, airy rise.
Ground nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Adds warm spice notes, evoking autumn vibes.
Ground cinnamon (½ teaspoon plus more for serving): Infuses classic apple spice flavor and aroma.
Sea salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
Large eggs (2, beaten): Adds richness and binds ingredients together.
Granulated sugar (¾ cup): Sweetens the batter perfectly without overwhelming.
Whole milk (¾ cup): Keeps the crumb tender and moist.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Brings a depth of flavor that rounds out the spices.
Cooking spray: Ensures easy release from the donut pan or muffin tin.
Powdered sugar (1 cup) for glaze: Creates a smooth, sweet base for the whiskey glaze.
Irish whiskey (2 tablespoons): Adds a boozy, aromatic kick to the glaze that makes these donuts unforgettable.
Whole milk (2 tablespoons) for glaze: Thins the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.

How to Make Irish Apple Cake Donuts with Whiskey Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by melting 2 tablespoons of the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped Granny Smith apples and sprinkle with brown sugar. Cook while stirring gently for about 7 to 10 minutes until the apples become tender and the sugars caramelize slightly, releasing an irresistible aroma. This step ensures each donut bites into soft, flavorful apple pieces rather than raw chunks.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

While the apples are cooking, sift together the flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and sea salt in a large bowl. Sifting helps to aerate the mixture and evenly distribute the spices and leavening, laying the foundation for light, fluffy donuts.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk the beaten eggs with granulated sugar until well combined. Add the whole milk, remaining melted butter, and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. This mixture adds the richness and moisture necessary for tender donuts.

Step 4: Bring the Batter Together

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined and no dry streaks remain. Fold the cooked apples into the batter, distributing them evenly to ensure every donut is loaded with sweet, tender fruit.

Step 5: Bake the Donuts

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and position a rack in the center. Spray a donut pan or a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray. Fill each cavity about two-thirds full with batter. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly pressed with your finger. This quick baking time yields donuts with a delightfully tender crumb that still holds together perfectly.

Step 6: Make the Whiskey Glaze

While the donuts bake, whisk together powdered sugar, Irish whiskey, and milk in a small bowl until smooth and glossy. The whiskey glaze delivers a boozy sweetness that elevates these donuts into something truly special.

Step 7: Glaze and Cool

Once baked, allow the donuts to cool slightly. Then, dip the tops of each donut into the whiskey glaze and set them on a wire rack or parchment paper to dry. Finish by sprinkling a pinch of cinnamon on top for an inviting finish.

How to Serve Irish Apple Cake Donuts with Whiskey Glaze Recipe

The image shows seven donuts covered in a light beige icing, stacked on a white oval plate placed on a dark green cloth on a white marbled surface. The donuts have a soft texture with round holes in the center and slight lumps showing inside the icing. One donut is split into pieces on a small white round plate nearby. A small dark brown bowl with white icing and a spoon is seen at the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra festive touch, sprinkle the glazed donuts with a dusting of cinnamon or even some finely chopped toasted pecans. A small dollop of whipped cream or a light drizzle of caramel sauce can also complement the whiskey glaze beautifully, turning simple donuts into a special occasion treat.

Side Dishes

These Irish Apple Cake Donuts with Whiskey Glaze Recipe pair wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee for an autumnal breakfast or brunch. For an evening dessert, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of spiced pumpkin gelato to enhance the cozy flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the donuts on a rustic wooden board or a pretty cake stand surrounded by fresh apples, cinnamon sticks, and autumn leaves for a stunning seasonal display. You can also thread them on a wooden skewer alternating with thin apple slices for a fun and whimsical serving idea at parties or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Because they are baked, they tend to stay moist and tender, but the whiskey glaze is best fresh to preserve its shine and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these Irish Apple Cake Donuts with Whiskey Glaze Recipe later, freeze them without the glaze in a sealed bag for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature and apply the glaze fresh for the best taste and texture.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the donuts gently in a low oven or microwave for a few seconds. Avoid overheating as this can dry out the crumb. After warming, dip again or drizzle with a fresh batch of whiskey glaze for that perfect glistening finish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, while Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness and firmness, you can substitute with other firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just make sure the apples hold their shape and don’t turn mushy during cooking.

Is it possible to make these donuts gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. Keep an eye on the batter’s consistency and adjust liquid if needed, as gluten-free flours can behave differently.

Can I omit the whiskey in the glaze?

Definitely! If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, simply leave out the Irish whiskey and replace it with extra milk or a splash of vanilla extract to maintain a flavorful glaze.

What if I don’t have a donut pan?

No worries! You can bake the batter in a 12-cup muffin tin instead. The shape will differ, but the taste and texture remain just as delicious. Just fill cups about two-thirds full and bake as directed.

How do I get the glaze to stick better to the donuts?

Make sure the donuts are warm but not hot when you dip them in glaze. If they are too hot, the glaze can slide off, and if they’re cold, it won’t adhere well. A slightly warm donut allows the glaze to set beautifully.

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about this Irish Apple Cake Donuts with Whiskey Glaze Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, treating yourself, or creating a festive centerpiece for brunch, these donuts deliver comfort, flavor, and a touch of Irish charm in each bite. I truly hope you find as much joy making and eating them as I do!