Name: Deliciously Warm Apple Cider Donuts for Cozy Fall Mornings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 170 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Fresh Apple Cider (Unfiltered and unpasteurized for best flavor.); 8 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Bring to room temperature.); 1/2 cup Granulated Sugar (Provides sweetness.); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Adds depth of flavor.); 1/2 cup Sour Cream (Contributes moisture.); 2 count Eggs (Room temperature.); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor.); 3 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Essential for structure.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Helps lighten texture.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Balances sweetness.); 1 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Leavening agent.); 3/4 teaspoon Baking Soda (Leavening agent.); 1 1/2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon (Adds warm spice.); 1/2 teaspoon Fresh Nutmeg (Adds warm spice.); Canola Oil (For frying.); 1 cup Sugar (For coating.); 1 tablespoon Cinnamon (For coating.); 1 teaspoon Freshly Grated Nutmeg (For coating.)

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As the air turns crisp and the leaves shimmer in shades of gold, a wave of nostalgia washes over me with just the thought of Apple Cider Donuts. These delightful cakes, crispy on the outside and tender within, are a must for my fall festivities. Imagine crunching through a sugary, cinnamon-spiced shell to reveal a warm, moist bite infused with that unmistakable apple cider goodness. These donuts not only make for a perfect breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up, but they also invite an extra dash of comfort into your autumn days. Plus, they’re incredibly fun to make, whether you’re frying them up solo or sharing the joy with family. Are you ready to embrace the essence of fall with these irresistible treats?

Why are Apple Cider Donuts a Must-Try?

Comforting and Cozy: There’s something uniquely nostalgic about Apple Cider Donuts that immediately evokes the warmth of fall gatherings.

Incredible Flavor: The blend of fresh apple cider, warm spices, and cinnamon sugar creates an irresistible experience with every bite.

Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a festive snack, these donuts effortlessly elevate any meal or gathering.

Fun to Make: Whether you’re an experienced chef or a weekend baker, the simple steps make this recipe rewarding and enjoyable.

Perfect Snack: Pair these donuts with a hot beverage like coffee or spiced cider, and you’ve got a match made in heaven. Celebrate the autumn season with these delightful treats that everyone will love!

Apple Cider Donuts Ingredients

For the Donuts

• Fresh Apple Cider – Provides authentic flavor; ensure it’s unfiltered and unpasteurized for the best Apple Cider Donuts.
• Unsalted Butter (8 tablespoons) – Adds richness and structure; bring to room temperature for easy creaming.
• Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup) – Provides sweetness and moisture for the perfect texture.
• Brown Sugar (1/2 cup) – Adds depth of flavor due to its molasses content, enhancing the overall taste.
• Sour Cream (1/2 cup) – Contributes moisture and tenderness, giving the donuts a delightful cake-like texture.
• Eggs (2) – Acts as a binder for structure and richness; use room temperature for better emulsification.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tablespoon) – Enhances the flavor profile, making each bite more aromatic.
• All-Purpose Flour (3 1/2 cups) – Provides essential structure; measure properly for the best results.
• Cornstarch (1 tablespoon) – Helps to lighten the texture for that fluffy bite we adore.
• Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances the overall flavors of the donuts.
• Baking Powder (1 1/2 teaspoons) and Baking Soda (3/4 teaspoon) – These leavening agents ensure a nice rise in your donuts.
• Ground Cinnamon (1 1/2 teaspoons) and Fresh Nutmeg (1/2 teaspoon) – Adds warm, cozy spices perfect for fall.
• Canola Oil (for frying) – A high smoke point oil ideal for frying, helping to achieve that crispy exterior.

For the Sugar Coating

• Sugar – Roll the fried donuts in a mixture of 1 cup sugar with 1 tablespoon cinnamon and 1 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg for a festive touch after frying.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Reduce the Cider
In a medium saucepan, pour in 2 cups of fresh apple cider and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow the cider to reduce until it thickens and measures down to about 1/3 cup, which should take roughly 15-20 minutes. Once reduced, transfer the cider to a bowl and let it cool to room temperature. This step is essential for intensifying the flavor of your Apple Cider Donuts.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
While your cider cools, grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together 3 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 3/4 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of fresh nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Ensure these ingredients are well combined for an even flavor throughout your delicious Apple Cider Donuts.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a separate mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 8 tablespoons of room temperature unsalted butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of brown sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 5 minutes, until it becomes light and fluffy. This airy texture is key to creating tender Apple Cider Donuts that melt in your mouth.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Sour Cream
Add 1/2 cup of sour cream and 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, mixing until smooth. Then, add the 2 room temperature eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step helps to bind the ingredients together, creating a moist and rich batter for the donuts.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the reduced apple cider, beginning and ending with the dry. Mix gently until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms, being careful not to overmix. This careful combining will result in the perfect texture for your Apple Cider Donuts, ensuring they are cake-like yet airy.

Step 6: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is ready, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight. Chilling the dough is essential; it firms up the mixture, making it easier to roll out and cut into perfect donut shapes. This patience will lead to the best results in your Apple Cider Donuts.

Step 7: Roll and Cut
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to cut out the donuts and the holes in the middle. Re-roll any scraps to cut out more donuts, ensuring every bit of that delicious dough is used in your batch of Apple Cider Donuts.

Step 8: Heat Oil
In a deep pot, pour in canola oil up to about 2 inches deep and heat it on medium-high until it reaches 360°F. Use a candy thermometer for accuracy, as maintaining the right temperature is crucial for frying. The oil should sizzle when you drop a small piece of dough in, indicating it’s ready for your Apple Cider Donuts.

Step 9: Fry Donuts
Carefully drop the donuts into the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Fry each donut for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown. Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts and let them drain on paper towels, which helps keep them light and crispy.

Step 10: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
While the donuts are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture made from 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg. This final touch adds sweetness and a warm spice flavor to your Apple Cider Donuts, making them irresistible and ready to be savored.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Donuts

Room Temperature: Store finished donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep them fresh and moist.

Fridge: If you’d like to store them longer, refrigerate the donuts in an airtight container for up to 3 days; they may lose some crispness but still taste delicious.

Freezer: For long-term storage, place the cooled donuts in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring they are tightly sealed. Freeze for up to 3 months and enjoy your Apple Cider Donuts whenever the craving strikes!

Reheating: To revive the texture, reheat frozen donuts in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes; they’ll come out warm and delightful, perfect for a cozy snack.

Tips for the Best Apple Cider Donuts

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using ingredients like butter and eggs at room temperature ensures better mixing and a smoother batter, leading to fluffy Apple Cider Donuts.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix only until combined to maintain tenderness. Overmixing can create dense donuts, which we definitely want to avoid!
Chill the Dough: Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours is essential for achieving the perfect texture in your donuts.
Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep the frying oil at 360°F. Too hot and your donuts will burn; too cold and they become greasy—nobody wants that!
Proper Coating: Roll the warm donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture right after frying for the best adherence and flavor. You’ll love that sweet spice as it melts into every bite!

Apple Cider Donuts Variations & Substitutions

Now you can really make these delicious Apple Cider Donuts your own with a few creative tweaks!

Pumpkin Puree: Swap out half the sour cream with pumpkin puree for a delightful autumn twist.
Maple Sugar Coating: Use maple sugar instead of granulated sugar in your coating for a unique flavor that screams fall.
Glazed Donuts: Instead of rolling them in cinnamon sugar, dip the hot donuts in a maple glaze for extra sweetness and shine.
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs, ensuring to check your baking powder for gluten-free status.
Spiced Variation: Add a dash of ginger or allspice to the dry ingredients for an enhanced warm spice flavor that will elevate these donuts.
Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut maker or pan for bite-sized versions that are perfect for gatherings or parties. They’re just as scrumptious, but dainty!
Cinnamon Swirl: Incorporate a cinnamon swirl by layering cinnamon sugar into the dough before cutting into donuts for extra flavor bursts.
Chili Spice: For those who love a kick, add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the batter for a surprising heat that pairs well with the sweetness.

Each of these delightful variations helps create a new experience with familiar flavors, ensuring your batch of Apple Cider Donuts remains the star of your autumn table. Whether enjoyed fresh from the fryer or topped with a delicious frosting, you’ll be celebrating the season in style!

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cider Donuts are perfect for those who love to meal prep! You can reduce the apple cider up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to develop while saving time. Additionally, the donut dough can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Simply mix your ingredients, cover them tightly, and chill. When you’re ready to fry, roll out the dough and cut into donuts, then proceed with heating the oil and frying as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh and delicious Apple Cider Donuts with minimal effort on busy mornings, ensuring they remain just as delightful!

What to Serve with Apple Cider Donuts?

There’s nothing quite like indulging in the sweet aroma of freshly made donuts paired with delightful accompaniments that elevate your cozy fall experience.

Warm Spiced Cider: A cup of this comforting drink perfectly mirrors the flavors in your donuts, enhancing the festive vibe.
Rich Coffee: The deep, robust notes of coffee provide a delightful contrast to the sweet, warm flavors of the donuts.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Celebrate the season with this creamy, spiced drink that echoes the cozy flavors of fall.

Pair the Apple Cider Donuts with a warm drink, and you have a match made in heaven. This combination is sure to bring warmth to your day and smiles to everyone around.

Cinnamon Tea: Light and fragrant, this tea accentuates the spices in your donuts and offers a soothing experience.
Maple Syrup Dipping Sauce: A drizzle of syrup not only adds sweetness but also a rich depth that complements each bite beautifully.

Imagine savoring each sugary morsel alongside these beverages; it’s pure autumn bliss on a plate!

Apple Cider Donuts Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best apple cider for the recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Apple Cider Donuts, look for fresh apple cider that is unfiltered and unpasteurized. This ensures that you get the full array of flavors and nutrients, which are essential for making your donuts really pop.

How should I store leftover donuts?
For sure! Store your finished donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days to maintain their freshness. If you want them to last a bit longer, you can refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days; just remember that they might lose some crispness this way.

Can these donuts be frozen? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze your Apple Cider Donuts, allow them to cool completely first. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, sealing tightly. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore their delightful texture.

What if my donuts turn out dense or oily?
It happens sometimes! If your donuts are dense, they may have been overmixed or didn’t have room temperature ingredients. To avoid oily donuts, ensure your frying oil is heated to 360°F; if it’s too low, the donuts will absorb oil and become greasy. A thermometer is really your best friend here!

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?
Very much so! If you want to adapt the recipe for gluten-free diets, swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix that contains xanthan gum. This will help mimic the texture and structure of regular flour donuts, and you won’t sacrifice any of those delicious apple cider flavors.

Are there any dietary considerations for these donuts?
Absolutely! If you have food allergies, note that this recipe includes dairy, eggs, and gluten. For vegan options, you could substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg) and use a plant-based butter alternative. Just keep in mind that results may vary a bit from the original!