Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts

Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts are a delightful twist on classic apple cider donuts. Made with soft Hawaiian rolls, a spiced apple pie filling, and finished with a sweet cider-cinnamon coating, these baked donut-style treats are irresistibly easy and perfect for fall mornings, brunches, or cozy gatherings. With minimal prep and a clever shortcut using store-bought ingredients, these are ready in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No dough-making or frying required

• Uses soft, fluffy Hawaiian rolls as a donut base

• Baked—not fried—for less mess and grease

• Cozy apple cider flavor in every bite

• Great use for apple pie filling and cider mix

• Kid-friendly and easy to assemble

• Perfect for fall gatherings or brunch spreads

• Ready in just 30 minutes

• Can be customized with toppings like glaze or drizzle

• A fun and creative twist on donuts

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Hawaiian rolls (12-count package)

• Apple pie filling

• Apple cider powdered drink mix (such as Alpine Spiced Apple Cider®)

• Butter

• Sugar

• Cinnamon

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Separate the Hawaiian rolls. Cut a ½-inch slit in the side of each roll, then use your finger or a spoon handle to make a larger pocket for filling.

3. Roughly chop the apple pie filling and place it in a bowl. Stir in one packet of the apple cider mix.

4. Fill each prepared roll with about 1 tablespoon of the apple cider apple filling mixture.

5. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Brush each roll on all sides with the melted butter.

6. Arrange the filled rolls on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 14 minutes, or until lightly toasted and golden brown.

7. While the rolls bake, mix the remaining cider packet, sugar, and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter separately.

8. After baking, brush the tops of the rolls with the remaining melted butter and roll them in the sugar mixture until fully coated.

9. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add a drizzle: Top with a cream cheese glaze or vanilla icing.

• Use other fillings: Try cherry pie filling, peach, or spiced pumpkin for seasonal variations.

• Top with streusel: Sprinkle with a cinnamon-oat crumble before baking for added crunch.

• Air fryer option: Air fry at 350°F for 8–10 minutes until golden brown.

• Make it mini: Use slider-sized rolls or cut large ones in half for bite-sized treats.

• Add chopped nuts: Mix in toasted pecans or walnuts with the filling.

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or clove to the sugar coating.

• Caramel twist: Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.

• Make ahead: Fill and prep the rolls ahead, then bake fresh when ready to serve.

• Serve with ice cream: Turn them into a decadent dessert by adding a scoop of vanilla.

Storage/Reheating

• Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

• Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month in a zip-top freezer bag. Thaw and warm before serving.

• Reheating:

  • Oven: Reheat at 325°F for 5–7 minutes.

  • Microwave: Heat on medium for 10–15 seconds.

  • Air fryer: Re-crisp at 350°F for 3–4 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble and store unbaked rolls in the fridge for a few hours, then bake just before serving.

Can I use homemade apple filling?

Absolutely. Just chop it finely and keep the texture soft for easy stuffing.

Do I need to use Alpine brand cider mix?

No. Any powdered apple cider drink mix will work. Choose one with a warm spiced flavor.

Can I skip the apple cider mix?

You can, but it adds that signature apple cider donut flavor. Without it, the flavor will be more like classic apple pie.

Are these best served warm or cold?

They’re delicious both ways. Warm brings out the gooey apple filling and fresh-baked texture.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Butter gives the best flavor, but neutral oils like vegetable or canola can be used in a pinch.

Can I add other fruits to the filling?

Yes. Pears, cranberries, or chopped peaches can complement the apple cider flavor.

What kind of Hawaiian rolls work best?

The original sweet rolls (not savory or buttery versions) work best for mimicking donut flavor.

How do I keep them from getting soggy?

Don’t overfill them with wet filling, and allow them to cool on a wire rack after baking.

Can kids help make this recipe?

Definitely. This is a fun and safe recipe for little hands to help with stuffing, brushing, and rolling.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts are a cozy, clever take on traditional fall donuts, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting dessert. With only a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy warm, spiced treats that taste like they came straight from a bakery. Whether you’re sharing with family or savoring solo with a hot drink, these donuts are sure to become a seasonal favorite.

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