Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

Apple Cider Donuts are a cozy, irresistible treat that perfectly capture the essence of autumn in every bite. These soft, cakey donuts boast a delicate spice blend and a subtle, natural sweetness from fresh apple cider that makes them so special. Whether you’re craving a comforting snack or a festive dessert, these Apple Cider Donuts bring warmth and joy to your kitchen with every batch you bake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients are all you need to create these mouthwatering Apple Cider Donuts. Each element plays a crucial part: the flour provides structure, the cider infuses flavor and moisture, and the warming spices add that unmistakable fall character.

• 1 cup fresh apple cider: This is the heart of the recipe, lending juicy sweetness and a subtle tartness.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the donuts their tender crumb and just the right density.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness while helping create a light golden crust.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Acts as the leavening agent, ensuring your donuts are light and fluffy.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Warms up the flavor and pairs beautifully with the apple cider.
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg: Offers a hint of spice that’s essential to that cozy, autumnal aroma.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• 2 large eggs (room temperature): Adds richness and helps bind everything together.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted): Brings moisture and a tender texture to the final donuts.

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Donut Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming, grease your donut pan well. This step is essential for easy removal and perfectly shaped donuts.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This blends the flavors and ensures even distribution of the spices and leavening agents for consistent results.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir together the fresh apple cider, room temperature eggs, and melted butter until the mixture is smooth and uniform. This creates the flavorful base of the dough and keeps the donuts moist and tender.

Step 4: Gently Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Carefully fold the wet ingredients into the dry ones, mixing just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your donuts light and cakey rather than dense and chewy.

Step 5: Fill the Donut Pan

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each donut cavity about two-thirds full with batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing your pan.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the donuts for 15-18 minutes or until they become golden brown. When done, let them cool in the pan for about five minutes so they hold their shape before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donuts

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a cinnamon-sugar blend can elevate your Apple Cider Donuts instantly. For extra indulgence, try dipping them in a glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of apple cider. These simple touches add sparkle and fun to every bite.

Side Dishes

Apple Cider Donuts pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, chai tea, or a creamy hot apple cider for a true autumn vibe. Adding a bowl of fresh fruit or a serving of whipped cream on the side can turn this treat into a full mini-dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking several Apple Cider Donuts on a pretty platter with some autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks for décor. You can also thread them onto a wide ribbon to fashion a donut wreath — perfect for festive tables or gatherings. These playful ideas showcase your love for the season and your baking skills at the same time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Apple Cider Donuts left after your party or cozy breakfast, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to 2 days, and you’ll still enjoy that soft texture and those lovely flavors.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen Apple Cider Donuts can last up to 2 months, so you can enjoy a taste of fall anytime you crave it.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your stored donuts, gently warm them in a microwave for about 15 seconds or in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 5 minutes. This brings back that freshly baked softness and warmth that makes every bite feel special.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Apple juice is usually sweeter and less complex than fresh apple cider, so while you can substitute it, the flavor might be a bit milder. For the best Apple Cider Donuts, fresh or unfiltered cider is ideal.

Can these donuts be fried instead of baked?

This recipe is designed for baking, but you could adapt it for frying with some tweaks to the batter consistency. Baking yields a lighter, cakier donut, while frying results in a denser, crispy outside.

What can I do if I don’t have a donut pan?

If you don’t have a donut pan, you can bake this batter in muffin tins for cake donut muffins. Just remember to adjust baking time slightly and expect a different shape but similar delicious flavor.

Are these Apple Cider Donuts gluten-free?

Not as written, but you could experiment with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be aware that texture might vary slightly, and you may need to adjust the amount of flour to get the right batter consistency.

Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or even dried cranberries would be wonderful additions. Fold them in gently before filling the pan to add extra texture and festive flavors.

Final Thoughts

Making Apple Cider Donuts at home is like inviting a hug from autumn right into your kitchen. The blend of spices and fresh cider makes each bite a celebration of the season’s best flavors. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want to bake them again and again. So go ahead — treat yourself and your loved ones to these warm, comforting delights!

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