Apple Cider Donuts

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn, these Apple Cider Donuts are just the thing! There’s something magical about the aroma of warm spices and sweet apple cider wafting through your home. This recipe is not only simple to whip up but also perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy weekend morning or a festive gathering, these donuts will surely become a favorite in your household!

What I love most about making Apple Cider Donuts is how they transform a regular day into something special. They’re soft, fluffy, and have just the right amount of sweetness. Plus, they’re baked, which means you can enjoy them without any guilt!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious donuts ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone will love them, from kids to grandparents! It’s a fun recipe to make together.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: These donuts can be made ahead of time and enjoyed throughout the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider and warm spices creates the perfect fall flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! You likely already have many of these in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need for your Apple Cider Donuts:

For the Donuts

• 3 T butter (unsalted)
• 1/3 cup apple cider
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon apple pie spice
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg

For the Topping

• 3 T butter (for dipping)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with some tasty variations:

• Add a Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider over the cooled donuts for an extra treat.
• Try Different Spices: Swap out the apple pie spice for pumpkin spice or even cinnamon if you prefer.
• Mix in Some Fruit: Fold in small pieces of fresh apples or raisins into the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Make Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan to create bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing at gatherings!

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Combine with Cider

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the apple cider and set this mixture aside. This step adds moisture and rich flavor to our donuts.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and apple pie spice. Mixing dry ingredients first helps ensure everything is evenly distributed before combining with wet ingredients.

Step 4: Whisk Wet Ingredients Together

In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and egg with the butter-cider mixture until fully combined. This creates a smooth batter that will rise beautifully while baking.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently stir together your wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; this keeps your donuts light and airy.

Step 6: Prepare Your Donut Pan

Spray your donut pan with cooking spray if it isn’t non-stick already. Transfer your batter into a piping bag (or use a spoon) to fill each cavity evenly.

Step 7: Bake Your Donuts

Bake in the preheated oven for about 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them as they bake! Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when done. Let cool for one minute before transferring them onto a cooling rack.

Step 8: Make the Topping

While your donuts are baking, melt some butter in a small bowl for dipping. In another bowl, mix together cinnamon, brown sugar, and white sugar. This topping will add sweetness and flavor!

Step 9: Coat Your Donuts

Once cooled slightly, dip each donut into the melted butter then coat it in the sugar-cinnamon mixture. Place them back on the cooling rack to let any excess drip off.

Enjoy every bite of these delightful Apple Cider Donuts! They are sure to bring warmth and joy to any occasion this fall season!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donuts

Making your own apple cider donuts can be a delightful experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh cider provides the best flavor and aroma, enhancing the overall taste of your donuts. Look for local options if possible.

• Don’t over-mix the batter: Gentle mixing is key to keeping your donuts light and fluffy. Over-mixing can lead to dense, tough donuts that miss that classic airy texture.

• Check doneness with a toothpick: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your donuts. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few crumbs when they’re done baking.

• Cool before coating: Allow your donuts to cool slightly before dipping them in butter and sugar. This helps the toppings adhere better and prevents them from sliding off.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste! Adding nutmeg or ginger can give a unique twist to your apple cider donuts.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donuts

Serving apple cider donuts can turn a simple treat into a cozy gathering centerpiece. Here are some fun ideas to present these delicious delights!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet touch and gives your donuts a lovely presentation.

• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: Pairing your donuts with warm apple cider creates a comforting fall experience that enhances the seasonal flavors.

• Vanilla yogurt: A dollop of vanilla yogurt adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the donuts, making for a delightful contrast.

• Fresh fruit salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries offers freshness and complements the rich flavors of the donuts.

• Coffee or tea: A warm beverage like coffee or spiced chai is perfect for enjoying alongside these treats, making it an ideal afternoon snack or breakfast option.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy your homemade apple cider donuts! They’re sure to become a favorite in your autumn dessert repertoire. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These delightful Apple Cider Donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in no time, and they make a fantastic treat to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store them properly and keep that fresh taste.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They are best enjoyed within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
• If you notice any condensation inside the container, consider placing a paper towel on the bottom to absorb excess moisture.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the donuts to cool completely first.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Seal tightly, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat frozen donuts in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
• If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave them for about 15-20 seconds, but this may result in a softer texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Donuts!

Can I use store-bought apple cider for this recipe?

Yes! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly fine in this recipe. Just ensure it’s fresh and without preservatives for the best flavor.

How do I make apple cider donuts without eggs?

You can substitute the egg with unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). This will help bind your ingredients together while keeping it delicious!

What makes these Apple Cider Donuts different from regular donuts?

These Apple Cider Donuts are baked instead of fried, making them a lighter option. The apple cider infuses them with a delightful flavor that captures the essence of autumn!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these wonderful Apple Cider Donuts! They’re not just delicious but also bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen during those cozy fall days. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them on your own, I truly believe these treats will put a smile on your face. Happy baking, and don’t forget to let me know how yours turn out!