Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts have totally changed how I think about homemade donuts. I mean, I never thought I’d be taking sweet Hawaiian rolls—yes, the pull-apart dinner rolls we all have tucked away in the pantry—then dunking them into cinnamon-apple goodness. You craving autumn flavors in the middle of summer? Or want to make donuts without a ton of hassle… or flour flying everywhere? I hear you. Sometimes I need treats that feel extra cozy and taste fresh. For anyone who’s after gluten-free donut tricks or the best way to stretch a tub of apple cider, I’ve got you covered too. (Oh, if you love carnival sweets, check my favorite Delicious Apple Funnel Cake Recipe to Try Today.)

How to Make Gluten-free Apple Cider Donuts
I experimented a lot with gluten-free donuts. I wanted the outside crisp (think apple orchard stand) but the inside still pillowy. Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts work for both gluten-eaters and “I’ll skip the wheat” folks.
First, swap regular Hawaiian rolls with a gluten-free brand (Canyon Bakehouse is a safe choice, though check your freezer section). Then, use a gluten-free flour like Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 to help the apple cider mixture stick when you dunk the cut-up rolls. If you want full DIY mode, mix almond flour with a bit of cornstarch for a lighter crust. Roll the pieces, fry or air-fry till toasty, then toss in cinnamon sugar with a scoop of your favorite spice.
If you’re baking instead of frying, note that gluten-free rolls might dry out quicker. Here’s what worked for me: brush them with extra apple cider before baking. Oh! And stuff a few apple bits in the dough for that five-star restaurant wow.
“I never thought a gluten-free donut could taste so soft, honestly. My family devoured the batch in minutes!”
—Michaela, home baker

Is Apple Cider Gluten-free?
Kind of important (obviously) if you’re making gluten-free Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts. Classic apple cider—pure stuff made with apples and, really, not much else—should be gluten-free. Store-bought ciders are mostly safe, but check those labels! Some fancy apple drinks or “spiced” bottled ciders sneak in flavors or additives. My usual trick? Buy from local orchards, or the fridge section near produce. Give it a sniff. Smells like apples? You’re probably golden. A little sweet-tart zing and you’ll want to gulp it like juice, but save some for the donuts!

Storage Tips for Apple Cider Donuts
Let’s be real. Donuts are best fresh. But sometimes you have leftovers. Here’s how I keep Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts soft and dreamy for later:
- Room temp: Store in a paper bag for 1 day so they don’t get soggy.
- Fridge: Wrap in foil or put in an airtight container, keeps ’em decent for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Pop cooled donuts in a zippered bag, freeze up to 2 months.
- To warm: Microwave for 10 seconds or heat in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.
Don’t skip the microwave trick. It sort of magically revives even the driest donut, like back-to-life magic.
Nutrition Facts of Apple Cider Donuts
This part’s a little less exciting, but for anyone minding their numbers, here’s what I know. Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts feel lighter than regular deep-fried ones. A single donut clocks in around 170-200 calories, give or take if you go heavy on sugar. Gluten-free versions are similar, but do peek at your roll label. Main perks: lower saturated fat and a pop of vitamin C (okay, not a ton, but hey).
Sugar? Yep, a little more, especially with cinnamon-sugar coating. So, maybe don’t eat the entire pan unless you’re sharing (guilty). For heart-healthier donuts, I swap white sugar for coconut sugar and pat off extra oil after frying.
With apple cider as the star, you’re at least getting some fruit power… right?
More Donut Recipes You’ll Love
Alright, if you’re donut-obsessed like me, you’ll want more options. Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts are a killer start but not the end (obviously).
Try a rustic caramel apple tart when you want cozy flavors but, you know, a little less sweet. Maybe even this Deliciously Rustic Caramel Apple Tart That’s a Real Treat. Or go full fair-style on the next rainy day. If you’re after inspiration, hunting on Pinterest helps, but nothing beats homemade. Drop any wild experiments you try below. Let’s keep the apple magic rolling.
Common Questions
Q: Can I use regular rolls if I’m not gluten-free?
A: Totally! Regular Hawaiian rolls work great for traditional Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts.
Q: Can I make these without frying?
A: Absolutely. Air fry or bake. Just brush with apple cider and keep an eye so they don’t dry out.
Q: What if my cider is super sweet?
A: Cut it with a splash of lemon juice. That tart kick helps balance things.
Q: How do I keep the sugar from falling off?
A: Coat while warm, right after baking or frying. The warmth helps the sugar stick hugs the donut.
Q: Any fun toppings to try?
A: Sure thing. Add maple glaze, toasted pecans, or slice and stuff with apple butter for a fancier bite.
Ready for Donut Happiness?
You want a donut that’s easy to whip up and crazy good? Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts are the move. They’re cozy, not fussy, perfect for lazy weekends or “I just want something sweet today.” If you want official step-by-step help, check the Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts Recipe and see what’s possible! And if you’re chasing that gluten-free goodness, browse some Gluten-free Apple Cider Donuts for other delicious takes. Trust me, grab your cider and rolls—you’ll be on cloud nine by the first bite.

Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts
Delicious and easy-to-make gluten-free donuts using sweet Hawaiian rolls coated in cinnamon sugar, perfect for cozy autumn flavors.
For the donuts
- 1 package gluten-free Hawaiian rolls (e.g., Canyon Bakehouse) (Regular Hawaiian rolls can be used if not gluten-free.)
- 1 cup apple cider (Use pure apple cider for best results.)
- 1 cup gluten-free flour (e.g., Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1) (Mix almond flour with cornstarch for a lighter crust.)
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon (For coating the donuts.)
- 1/2 cup sugar (Coarse sugar recommended for coating.)
- oil for frying or air-frying (Can be any neutral frying oil.)
- 1/2 cup apple bits (Optional, for adding sweetness and texture.)
Preparation
- Cut Hawaiian rolls into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, mix apple cider with gluten-free flour until combined.
- Dunk the roll pieces into the apple cider mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- For baking, brush rolls with additional apple cider and place bits of apple inside.
Cooking
- Fry or air-fry the coated roll pieces until toasty and golden.
- In a separate bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon.
- Toss warm donuts in the cinnamon sugar mix for coating.
Storage
- Store leftovers at room temperature in a paper bag for up to 1 day.
- Refrigerate in foil or airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze cooled donuts in a zippered bag for up to 2 months.
For a richer flavor, substitute white sugar for coconut sugar and pat off excess oil after frying. Microwave for 10 seconds to revive leftovers.