Fall in Essex County involves many things — the changing of the leaves, apple + pumpkin picking, hayrides + corn mazes, pumpkin spice drinks — but with this new season also comes another sweet treat, apple cider doughnuts. Now that fall is in full swing, we’ve rounded up some of the best spots to snag one of these delicious treats — from Northern New Jersey shops to local farms. Read on for where to get apple cider doughnuts around Northern New Jersey.

A Brief Background

Digging around on the internet for the origin of the apple cider doughnut doesn’t yield much, but sources agree on a few key concepts. First, for the uninitiated, yes they really are cider doughnuts. Apple cider, or a cider reduction, is part of the batter. Out of the fryer, they’re frequently topped with cinnamon and sugar. Piping hot or toasted at home, no matter how you enjoy them, these treats are a staple of Northeastern autumn.

Read More: 100+ New Jersey Activities for Your Fall 2024 Bucket List

Doughnuts have been around for a long time. Cider doughnuts specifically might have originated in the colonies, when people used animal fat to fry dough mixed with harvested apples. But the general consensus is that apple cider doughnuts joined the mainstream in the 1950s. This was all thanks to the Doughnut Corporation of America, a corporation founded by Adolf Levitt. Levitt popularized doughnuts in post-war America and made them a commercial success. According to The Smithsonian, a New York Times article in 1951 is the first known mention of “sweet cider doughnuts” thanks to the DCA.

Nowadays, apple cider doughnuts are snapped up at farm stands all over the country. There are plenty of excellent versions in the area, thanks to bakeries and farm stands.

Shops That Sell Apple Cider Doughnuts

Montclair Bread Company | 16 Label Street, Montclair

Montclair Bread Company is the local go-to for a swing-by-and-buy apple cider doughnut fix. The bakery has a range of delicious doughnuts, and indeed the apple cider does not disappoint. Putting a fresh spin on the usual sugar dusting, Montclair Bread Company’s ACD is glazed and then topped with fresh apples and crumble. Eat it as breakfast or dessert, but you’ll likely struggle to stop yourself with these decadent beauties.

D’Ercole Donuts | 489 Tappan Road, Northvale

D’Ercole Donuts is a family-owned and operated doughnut and coffee shop. The spot makes small batches of doughnuts throughout the day to ensure freshness. The doughnuts here are also tree nut and peanut-free. As a seasonal option, D’Ercole Donuts makes apple cider doughnuts for all of the sweet treat lovers to enjoy.

Froth on Franklin | 85 Franklin Street, Jersey City

This cozy little coffee shop features more than just coffee. All throughout fall, you can find fresh, apple cider doughnuts on on the menu.

Posh Pop Bakeshop | 192 Bleecker Street, New York City

Yes, this shop isn’t in Northern New Jersey, but it’s just a train ride away into the city. Posh Pops specializes in gluten-free cakes, cookies, monkey bread, and of course, apple cider doughnuts during the fall season.

Sweet Caroline’s Bakeshop | Newton

Sweet Caroline’s Bakeshop has creations that hold a special quality — they not only taste delicious but also bring about feelings of comfort. This spot is serving up regular and gluten-free doughnuts this fall season.

 

Farms That Sell Apple Cider Doughnuts

Yes, bakeries are delicious, but there’s something special about savoring apple cider doughnuts as you wander through an apple orchard. If apple picking, pumpkin picking, hayrides, and family fun are a staple of your season, head to these farms to get your doughnut fix, too. Surely picking apples is enough of a workout to earn at least one or two. (MG Pro tip: it’s not, but enjoy the experience anyway!)

Alstede Farms | 1 Alstede Farms Lane, Chester

Alstede Farms is a family-run farm in Chester. Google and Yelp reviews laud the apple cider doughnuts as absolutely delicious, but if you’re going, be ready to stock up on more than breakfast. This farm’s store features baked goods, veggies, honey, meat, snacks, prepared foods, fruits, and so much more. Grab a dozen doughnuts for snacking as you shop and build a farm-to-table feast for a perfect fall weekend.

Demarest Farms Orchard | 244 Wierimus Road, Hillsdale

Demarest Farms Orchard in Hillsdale is a pick-your-own farm with lots of opportunities for outdoor fun. Peaches, apples, and pumpkins are all pickable here. Demarest also hosts holiday light shows for Halloween and the winter holiday season, as well as regular movie nights. But we’re here for the doughnuts. Demarest Farms Orchard does not disappoint. Traditional and delicious, the apple cider doughnuts are lauded by reviewers. Pies, berries, and other delicious treats are also available.

Hacklebarney Farm Cider Mill | 104 State Park Road, Chester

Hacklebarney Farm Cider Mill is another family-run farm in Chester. A visit to Hacklebarney provides opportunities for family fun in corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and hayrides. The apple cider doughnuts are raved about on Facebook, Google, and Yelp. There are many delicious treats to choose from at the store to please your autumnal taste buds, so go hungry and ready for a good time.

Melick’s Town Farm | 170 Oldwick Road, Oldwick

Melick’s Town Farm is New Jersey’s largest apple orchard, according to its website. Go for the day to pick a bushel and grab yet another batch on your apple cider doughnut tour.

See More: Your Guide to Pumpkin + Apple Picking in New Jersey

Other Farms Not to Miss

Abma’s Farm | 700 Lawlins Road, Wyckoff + 282 Amwell Road, Hillsborough

Battleview Orchards | 91 Wemrock Road, Freehold

Conklin Farm U-Pick | 10 Vreeland Avneue, Montville

DePiero’s Farm Stand + Greenhouses | 156 Summit Avenue, Montvale

Etsch Farm | 556 Buckelew Avenue #522, Monroe Township

Farms View Roadstand | 945 Black Oak Ridge Road, Wayne

Heaven Hill Farm | 451 NJ-94, Vernon Township

Lentini Farms | 251 High Street Route 94 South, Newton

Mackey’s Orchard | 284 County Road 519, Belvidere

Ort Farms | 25 Bartley Road, Long Valley

Pochuck Valley Farms | 962 McAfee Glenwood Road, Glenwood

Race Farm | 87 Belcher Road, Blairstown

Riamede Farm | 122 Oakdale Road, Chester

Secor Farms | 85 Airmont Avenue, Mahwah

Stony Hill Farms | 15 North Road, Chester

Terhune Orchards | 330 Cold Soil Road + 13 Van Kirk Road, Princeton

Von Thun’s Country Farm Market | 505 Ridge Road, Monmouth Junction

Von Thun Farms | 438 NJ-57, Washington

Wightman Farms | 1111 Mount Kemble Avenue, Morristown

Windy Brow Farms | 359 Ridge Road, Fredon Township