Where to Find the Best Apple Cider Doughnuts 2022

Last year I went all over the North Shore looking for the best apple cider doughnuts – and I think I gained 10 pounds while doing it! But boy, did we have a good time on our quest. You will never find me grabbing a half dozen apple cider doughnuts at a Dunkins. After all, it’s not just about the actual doughnut, it’s about the whole experience. And we’re so lucky to live in an area with some amazing farms that make such delicious treats! 

For our family, it started with our annual visit to Russell Orchards. We’ve visited this family-run farm every year since I was a little one. Obviously we were onto something because farm visits, specifically for apple picking and enjoying festive fare, have become very popular over the last couple of years. If you’re planning a farm day soon to grab some apple cider doughnuts but aren’t sure where to head, then I’ve done the work for you.

For this year’s list, I reminding you of some of my past favorites (and you can read my full reviews here), while sharing a new favorite. Keep reading for my guide on where to find the best apple cider doughnuts North of Boston in 2022.

Note: I won’t be ranking the doughnuts, per se, but sharing what each farm has to offer. Make sure to read until the end to find out my favorite doughnut overall!

Best 2022 Find

Applecrest Orchards

North Hampton, New Hampshire

When looking for a new place to check out, I stumbled upon Applecrest Orchard, New Hampshire’s oldest and largest apple orchard. It’s also the oldest continuously-operated orchard in America! What I didn’t know when I decided that this would be the next farm on my hitlist to review their apple cider doughnuts, is that we had a personal connection. In the 60s and 70s my great grandparents lived right down the way from Applecrest, and my mom would often visit the farm when she was staying with them. So bringing her with me to visit Applecrest was like a walk down memory lane for her. 

In her words, everything had changed. They have a beautiful large farm store, complete with The Orchard Grille. They have a pumpkin patch and orchards where you can pick your own pumpkins, raspberries, apples, and peaches. Across the street is a large corn maze and every weekend from Labor Day weekend to the last weekend of October they have a festival with live music, tractor rides and games. We were there on a sleepy Tuesday afternoon, but I hope we can get back for one of their October festivals.

Best Traditional Apple Cider Doughnut

Russell Orchards

Ipswich, Massachusetts

Russell Orchards‘ doughnuts are best served warm, so either ask for a fresh batch or wait until you’re home and you can throw it in the microwave for 10 seconds before you enjoy it. You’ll also find gluten-free options here. 

While there you can also pick up one of their house-made wines, picture-perfect pumpkins, and fun seasonal decor and books. They also sell their own local honey, which I always stock up on during our visit.

Most Sugary Apple Cider Doughnut

Wilson Farm

Lexington, Massachusetts

One of the baristas at my local coffee shop told me about Wilson Farm last September and since then we’ve visited once every couple of months. I love how sugary the doughnuts are and, unlike Russell’s, these don’t need to be warm to be enjoyed. 

Wilson’s is more like an upscale grocery store than an actual farmstand, but it still has that New England charm. In addition to pumpkins, scarecrows and yummy apple cider doughnuts, you can find designer cakes, delicious cold brew coffee, and a ton of gluten-free options in the bakery. They also have an impressive produce and fine foods selection.

Most Cake-y Apple Cider Doughnut

Brooksby Farm

Peabody, Massachusetts

To be honest, these apple cider doughnuts are not my favorite, but if you prefer a cake-like doughnut, Brooksby Farm is your best bet. When we were there they did not have any sugar-covered doughnuts, but if you go earlier in the day you’ll probably be able to nab a few. The farm also offers plenty of pick-your-own fruit options and a chance for kids to meet the farm animals and conquer a farm-themed playground.

Best Overall Apple Cider Doughnut

Cider Hill Farm

Amesbury, Massachusetts

My absolute favorite apple cider doughnut comes from Cider Hill Farm. I dont know exactly what it is about them that makes them my favorite. Maybe it’s the combination of having just the right amount of sugar and they happen to be delicious when eaten warm or at room temperature. 

Cider Hill also had a beautiful fall display and a well-stocked farm stand with unique gourmet items. Arielle loved wandering through the pumpkins. You can pick your own apples and they have plenty of fun activities for kids. 

Cider Hill also boasts a selection of delicious hard ciders and hosts festivals almost every weekend in fall. You can visit in the springtime to pick tulips, too. I wish we lived a little closer because they have such amazing events!

As for price, a half dozen at each location cost about $5. So it all comes down to the experience and what you prefer in a doughnut.

Do you have suggestions for a great apple cider doughnut? DM me because I’d love to hit a few more farms before the season is over.