Apple Cider Donuts

When the air turns crisp and the leaves paint the ground in shades of gold, it’s time for apple cider donuts. Imagine biting into a warm, fluffy donut that tastes like a hug from autumn itself, dripping with cinnamon-sugar goodness. Each bite transports you to an orchard where the aroma of fresh apples mingles with the sweet scent of fried dough. It’s an experience that sparks joy and nostalgia, reminding us of cozy gatherings and laughter shared over hot cider.

I remember the first time I made these delightful treats; my kitchen turned into a mini apple festival. My kids were convinced they could out-eat me in donuts, and honestly, who could blame them? The smell wafting through our home was enough to turn anyone into a donut-loving fanatic. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply trying to brighten up a chilly day, this apple cider donuts recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds—or thirds!

I still chuckle every time I think about how my daughter declared herself the official taste tester and promptly ate four before noon.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Apple Cider: Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor; avoid anything overly processed.
• All-Purpose Flour: This is your base; sift it for lightness if you want extra fluffy donuts.
• Baking Powder: Ensure it’s fresh; this helps your donuts rise perfectly.
• Cinnamon: A must-have spice that gives these donuts their warm, cozy flavor.
• Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds depth to the flavor profile; it’s like autumn in spice form!
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is essential for sweetness; don’t skimp on rolling them afterward!
• Eggs: Use large eggs for structure; they help bind everything together.
• Butter: Melted and slightly cooled butter gives richness—you can use unsalted or salted based on preference.
• Milk: Whole milk adds moisture; you can substitute with almond milk if desired.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavor; opt for high-quality for best results.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Kitchen Space: Gather your ingredients and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your donut pan to ensure easy release later.

Mix Dry Ingredients Together: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until combined. The spices should waft through the air like an inviting hug.

Combine Wet Ingredients Separately: In another bowl, mix together apple cider, melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. The mixture should be creamy but not overly thick.

Add Wet Mixture to Dry Ingredients: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your donuts light and fluffy!

Pour Batter into Donut Pan: Using a piping bag or spoon, fill each cavity of the donut pan about halfway full with batter. This ensures they rise without spilling over.

Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean—no one likes a soggy center!

Once baked, let them cool slightly before rolling in cinnamon sugar. The sweet coating adds an irresistible crunch that contrasts beautifully with their soft interior.

Now that you’ve mastered this apple cider donuts recipe, prepare yourself for compliments from family and friends! Enjoy these delectable treats while they’re warm or save some for later—if you can resist!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect apple cider donuts, reduce the cider first for more concentrated flavor. Mix dry and wet ingredients separately for better texture before combining them.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap regular flour with whole wheat for added nutrition or drizzle maple glaze for a sweet twist. You can also add chopped nuts for extra crunch.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover apple cider donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about five minutes to regain their freshness.

Memories of making apple cider donuts always bring smiles, especially when my friends devoured them in seconds, asking for more batches!

FAQ

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly if you don’t have homemade on hand.

Are these donuts baked or fried?

These delightful treats are traditionally fried, giving them that classic donut texture.

How can I make these gluten-free?

Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy these donuts without worry!

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Apple Cider Donuts

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• Author: William Castellanos
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Apple cider donuts are the quintessential fall treat, perfectly capturing the essence of autumn with every bite. Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, fluffy donut coated in cinnamon-sugar goodness, transporting you to an apple orchard filled with nostalgia. This easy-to-follow recipe yields irresistible donuts that are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or cozy gatherings with family and friends.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup apple cider
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for coating)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/2 cup whole milk (or almond milk)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, mix apple cider, melted butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until just combined.
5. Fill each cavity of the donut pan halfway with batter.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown; a toothpick inserted should come out clean.
7. Let cool slightly before rolling in cinnamon sugar.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 donut (60g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 150mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 40mg