We were first introduced to cider donuts in Ohio while visiting family friends. Northeast Wisconsin has taken some time to catch on to this yummy Fall treat. We were super excited to find them so close to the Fox Valley at Misty Ridge Orchard just outside of Freedom.
What makes an Apple Cider Donut So Delicious?
If you haven’t tried these donuts, you may be wondering… What are apple cider donuts? Apple cider donuts are made by adding apple cider to the donut batter, deep-fried, and then rolled and dipped in cinnamon sugar and other typical apple pie spices like nutmeg. The apple cider leaves a subtle sweetness and the sugary topping is finger-lickin’ good.
We like these donuts warm and straight from the fryer paired with (and dunked) in hot apple cider!
A Favorite Spot Near Appleton for Apple Cider Donuts
Misty Ridge Orchard is a newer apple orchard in the area, in their third season, and owned by Steve and Carrie Gonnering. The retail store and bakery were completed in 2018. This family-owned orchard is considered a high-density orchard meaning the trees are planted closer together to maximize the crop and resources.
The orchard currently has over 4,000 apple trees with 20 varieties, including:
- Well Loved Varieties
- Honey Crisp
- Cortland
- McIntosh Red
- Rarer to Find
- Autumn Crisp
- Ever Crisp
- Snow Sweet
- Check Facebook to see what varieties are available. If you’re looking for something specific, here are Wisconsin apple types and windows for picking.
- Note: Currently, you-pick is not offered but is part of the orchard’s future plans.
The modern and trendy retail store features a temperature-controlled apple room and local products to take home including jams, pretzels, honey, maple syrup, pies, and more.
Fall Treats to Enjoy During Your Visit
They also sell fresh-baked apple pie by the slice, caramel apples—the caramel is made on site—with peanuts or sprinkles, apple cider, and our favorite… fresh made-to-order cider donuts.
Kiddos can enjoy watching apples sorted and cleaned and see the baked goodies being made while waiting for
We recommend getting a dozen right away at $8 dozen or 75 cents each. These also paired lovely with their cider slushies!
Outdoor Fall Activities at Misty Ridge Orchard
- corn maze
- petting zoo
- basketball
- swings
- sand pile
- giant tunnel
- fire pit
- corn hole
- kid’s beanbag toss
Note: Misty Ridge is only open on the weekends!
- GVK Reader Review: “We loved Misty Ridge. A small corn maze, gaunt sandpit, swings, and small petting zoo means we’ll be back! All our fun for 2.50 in donuts! Yum!”
- GVK Reader Review: “Misty Ridge Orchard is our favorite for cider donuts! Made fresh and hot to order. Better than Door County!”
READ MORE: 7+ Epic Corn Mazes in Wisconsin
Where to Find Cider Donuts in the Fox Cities
- Heritage Orchard, N2963 Lakeshore Dr, Chilton
- GVK Reader Review: “Made fresh on-site and you can watch!“
- Also featured on our Ultimate Fall Guide to the East Side of Lake Winnebago
- Wood Orchard Market, 8112 WI-42, Egg Harbor (Door County)
- Also featured on our 10 Favorite Family-Friendly Fall Things to Do Door County
- Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market, 9197 WI-42, Fish Creek (Door County)
- Also featured on our 10 Favorite Family-Friendly Fall Things to Do Door County
- Appleberry Farms, 8079 Maurer Rd, Cross Plains
