Apple Cider Donuts

If you’re looking for a warm and cozy treat that captures the essence of autumn, look no further than these delightful Apple Cider Donuts! There’s something magical about the aroma of apple cider wafting through your kitchen, especially when it’s paired with the warm spices that define this time of year. These donuts are not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with family and friends during chilly evenings or festive gatherings. Trust me; they will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Imagine taking a bite out of these baked goodies, where the sweetness of apples meets the comforting flavors of cinnamon and brown sugar. They’re a fantastic way to celebrate the season and create lovely memories around the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 17 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone, from kids to grandparents, will love these sweet treats!
• Deliciously Wholesome: Made with simple ingredients, you can feel good about serving them.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a fall gathering or a cozy breakfast at home, these donuts fit right in.
• Make Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy fresh donuts all week long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Apple Cider Donuts use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious treat!

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 (melted)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize these donuts to suit your taste or use up what you have on hand.

• Add extra spices: A pinch of nutmeg or ginger can give your donuts an even more aromatic flavor.
• Try different sugars: Swap out some granulated sugar for maple sugar or coconut sugar for unique sweetness.
• Mix in some fruit: Fold in chopped apples or raisins into the batter for added texture and flavor.
• Make them glazed: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and water over the cooled donuts for an extra touch of sweetness.

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Preheating ensures even baking, so your donuts come out perfectly fluffy every time.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix with Cider

In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the apple cider and set aside. This mixture is essential as it adds moisture and rich flavor to your donuts.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and apple pie spice. This step combines all your dry ingredients evenly before adding them to the wet mixture.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and egg into the cider and butter mixture until everything is well combined. This helps ensure that your donuts are sweet throughout!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Carefully stir together your wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Remember 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’s not non-stick. Add batter to a piping bag (or use a spoon if you prefer) and pipe it evenly into each mold. Filling them just right ensures perfectly shaped donuts.

Step 7: Bake Them Up!

Bake your donuts for about 7 minutes, but keep an eye on them! Test doneness with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, they’re ready! Allow them to cool for one minute before transferring them onto a cooling rack.

Step 8: Make That Delicious Topping

While those heavenly donuts are baking, melt more butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix together cinnamon, brown sugar, and white sugar. This topping gives each donut that irresistible sweet crunch!

Step 9: Dip & Coat

Once cooled slightly, dip each donut into the melted butter first before rolling them in the sugary cinnamon mixture. Place them back onto the cooling rack to let that topping set just perfectly.

And there you have it—your homemade Apple Cider Donuts are ready to enjoy! Each bite is like taking a little piece of autumn bliss right into your heart!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donuts

Making apple cider donuts is a delightful experience, and with these tips, you’ll ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh cider enhances the flavor of your donuts, giving them that authentic autumn taste. Store-bought options can sometimes lack the depth of flavor you want.

• Don’t over-mix the batter: Over-mixing can lead to tough donuts instead of the light and fluffy texture we all crave. Mix just until combined for the best results.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Every oven is different! Start checking your donuts a minute or two before the suggested baking time to avoid over-baking them.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or additional cinnamon to customize your flavor profile. This can elevate your donuts and make them uniquely yours.

• Cool completely before dipping: Allowing your donuts to cool slightly ensures that the butter topping adheres properly without melting away. It also helps maintain their shape!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donuts

Apple cider donuts are not only delicious but can also be presented in fun and creative ways. Whether it’s for a gathering or an afternoon treat, here are some serving ideas!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness and a lovely visual appeal.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce adds richness and a festive touch that’s perfect for autumn gatherings.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: Serve your donuts alongside a warm cup of spiced apple cider, creating a cozy pairing perfect for chilly days.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a delightful contrast to warm donuts, creating a comforting dessert experience.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits like pears and cranberries complements the rich flavors of the donuts without overwhelming them.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing these treats with a hot beverage is always a hit! The warmth of coffee or tea enhances the flavors while providing a comforting touch.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to whip up your own batch of scrumptious apple cider donuts! Enjoy every bite as you embrace the flavors of fall!

Make Ahead and Storage

These apple cider donuts are perfect for meal prep! They can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy their delectable flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store them properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, refrigerate them in the same container.

Freezing

• After cooling, wrap each donut tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the desired number of donuts on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making apple cider donuts!

Can I use fresh apple cider for this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh apple cider will add even more delicious flavor to your apple cider donuts. Just make sure it’s not too sweet, as it can affect the overall sweetness of the donuts.

What makes these apple cider donuts special?

These apple cider donuts are baked, not fried, which makes them lighter while still delivering that warm, spiced flavor we love during autumn. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up right at home!

How do I ensure my apple cider donuts turn out fluffy?

To keep your apple cider donuts fluffy, be careful not to over-mix your batter after combining the wet and dry ingredients. Just mix until combined for the best texture!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these delightful apple cider donuts as much as I do! They capture the essence of fall with every bite and bring warmth and joy into your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them yourself, these treats are sure to be a hit. Happy baking!