Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy treat that perfectly captures the spirit of fall, you will absolutely adore this Apple Cider Donuts Recipe. These donuts are a heavenly blend of warm spices, tender dough, and that unmistakable apple cider flavor that’s been simmered down to a rich, syrupy reduction. Each bite is soft yet satisfyingly crisp on the outside, rolled generously in cinnamon sugar to add the perfect sweet-spiced finish. This recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that work harmoniously to create a homemade donut experience you’ll want to make again and again, whether for a chilly morning breakfast or a festive autumn gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with this Apple Cider Donuts Recipe is a joy because the ingredients are straightforward and familiar, yet each plays an essential role in delivering the flavor and texture that make these donuts so special. From the bright apple cider that infuses the dough with fruity warmth to the aromatic spices and creamy buttermilk, every component contributes to the magic.

• Apple cider (2 cups): The star ingredient, reduced down to concentrate its sweet-tart flavor for the batter.
• All-purpose flour (3 ½ cups): Provides structure with just the right tenderness.
• Baking powder (1 ¼ teaspoons): Helps the donuts rise lightly and stay fluffy.
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon): Works with acidity to give lift and a tender crumb.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
• Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon): Adds that classic warm, spicy note that defines apple cider donuts.
• Ground nutmeg (½ teaspoon): Offers a fragrant, slightly sweet warmth.
• Ground allspice (½ teaspoon, optional): Brings depth with its blend of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg flavors.
• Granulated sugar for batter (1 cup): Sweetens the dough perfectly without overpowering.
• Large eggs (2): Bind and add richness to the mixture.
• Unsalted butter, melted and cooled (½ cup): Keeps the dough tender and moist.
• Buttermilk or plain yogurt (½ cup): Adds acidity for a tangy note and enhances softness.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Rounds out the flavors with a subtle sweetness.
• Vegetable oil (for frying): The perfect frying medium for achieving golden, crisp donuts.
• Granulated sugar for coating (1 cup): Sweet base for the cinnamon sugar crust.
• Ground cinnamon for coating (2 teaspoons): Adds that irresistible spiced crunch on the outside.

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Begin by pouring your apple cider into a small saucepan and setting it over medium heat. Allow it to gently simmer and reduce until the liquid thickens and becomes syrupy, about 20 to 25 minutes. You want to end up with roughly half a cup of this concentrated goodness. This reduction imparts a rich apple flavor to the donuts that makes them truly standout. Remember to let it cool completely before using, so it blends seamlessly with your other ingredients later.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

While your cider is reducing, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and the optional allspice in a large mixing bowl. Whisk them together thoroughly to ensure the spices and leaveners are evenly distributed. This step is crucial because even seasoning will ensure every bite bursts with cozy autumn flavor.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, cooled apple cider reduction, granulated sugar, melted butter, buttermilk (or yogurt), and vanilla extract. The mixture should become smooth, with all the ingredients merging into an aromatic, slightly sweet liquid base. This combination provides moisture and richness that balance the dry ingredients perfectly to achieve a tender donut dough.

Step 4: Make the Dough

Slowly pour the wet mixture into the bowl with your dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold everything together until just combined. The key here is to mix until there are no dry patches but avoid overworking the dough, which can lead to tough donuts. You’ll end up with a soft, slightly sticky dough that’s easy to roll out.

Step 5: Shape the Donuts

Lightly flour a clean surface and roll the dough to about half an inch thickness. Use a donut cutter to cut out your donuts, or if you don’t have one, two round cutters—one larger for the donut outer ring and a smaller one for the hole—work perfectly. Don’t worry about scraps; gather them, reroll, and cut more donuts until all dough is used.

Step 6: Heat Oil and Fry

Heat your vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot to a steady temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Fry the donuts a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pot. Cook each side for 1 to 2 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 7: Coat Donuts in Cinnamon Sugar

While your donuts are still warm, roll them in a shallow bowl filled with a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. This coating sticks just right to the fresh donuts, creating a sweet and spicy exterior that perfectly complements the soft interior. Don’t be shy here — a generous coating makes these donuts irresistible.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

There’s nothing quite like enjoying these homemade apple cider donuts warm while they’re fresh. Pair them with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a mug of spiced apple cider for the ultimate autumn indulgence. The combination of soft, flavorful dough and that crunchy cinnamon sugar coat is sure to bring smiles all around.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

Garnishes

Feel free to add a little extra flair by dusting your freshly coated donuts with powdered sugar or a light drizzle of caramel sauce. A sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts like pecans adds a lovely crunch and nutty note that works beautifully with the warm spices. These small touches can transform your donuts into a show-stopping treat.

Side Dishes

Apple cider donuts pair wonderfully with warm beverages like chai tea, hot apple cider, or even a creamy latte. If you’re serving these for breakfast or brunch, try alongside fresh fruit salad or a bowl of spiced yogurt. Their sweet spiced flavor complements savory breakfasts like scrambled eggs or bacon, balancing your meal with a fun fall twist.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, stack your donuts on a cake stand or arrange them on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like honey butter, maple syrup, or apple butter. You can also thread them on a dowel rod for a playful “donut tower” that’s not only beautiful but invites guests to grab and enjoy. Adding autumn leaves or small pumpkins around the display will amp up that seasonal charm.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra donuts (though that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to two days. Keeping the donuts sealed helps maintain their softness and prevents the cinnamon sugar from fading away.

Freezing

Apple cider donuts freeze beautifully and are perfect for making ahead. Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a tightly sealed freezer bag or container. This method preserves their flavor and texture for up to two months, letting you enjoy a little taste of fall anytime.

Reheating

To bring your stored or frozen donuts back to life, warm them in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This warms the donut through and refreshes the cinnamon sugar coating nicely. You can also microwave them for 15 to 20 seconds but be cautious not to overdo it to maintain that perfect texture.

FAQs

Can I Use Frozen Apple Cider for This Recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or warm it gently before you start reducing it. While fresh cider has the brightest flavor, frozen works well and still gives you that lovely apple depth once reduced to a syrupy consistency.

Can I Bake These Donuts Instead of Frying?

Absolutely! To make a baked version, prepare the dough as usual, then place it in greased donut pans. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) for 12 to 15 minutes or until they’re golden and a toothpick comes out clean. Baking results in a softer, cakier donut with less crispness but still delicious.

How Should I Store Leftover Donuts?

The best way to store leftover donut treats is in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them from drying out. When ready to enjoy, simply warm them briefly to revive that fresh donut feel.

Can I Substitute Buttermilk?

Yes! Plain yogurt or milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar (let it sit for about 5 minutes) works as a great substitute for buttermilk in this recipe. This keeps the donuts tender and moist without altering the flavor balance.

What Is the Best Oil to Fry These Donuts?

Vegetable oil is ideal because of its neutral flavor and high smoke point, which helps achieve golden, crispy donuts without imparting any unwanted tastes. You can also use canola or peanut oil if you prefer, as long as the temperature is controlled well.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donuts Recipe is a true celebration of fall’s best flavors wrapped in a warm, comforting delight. It’s the kind of treat that brings people together, whether you’re sharing with family over breakfast or enjoying a quiet moment with your favorite hot drink. Don’t hesitate to dive in and make these donuts your own—once you’ve tasted this magic, I promise they’ll become a seasonal favorite you’ll cherish forever.

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