Apple Cider Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy treat to warm up your autumn days, these Apple Cider Donuts are perfect! There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked donuts wafting through the kitchen, especially when they are infused with the sweet and tangy essence of apple cider. This recipe has been a favorite in my family for years, and it’s become our go-to for everything from busy weeknights to festive family gatherings. Trust me, once you take a bite out of these delightful donuts, you’ll understand why!

Whether you enjoy them in the morning with your coffee or as an afternoon snack, these Apple Cider Donuts deliver comfort in every bite. They are easy to make and sure to impress everyone who tries them!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can whip these up in just 17 minutes from start to finish!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love helping out in the kitchen, and everyone loves eating them.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider and spices creates an irresistible taste that screams fall.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week!
• Versatile Topping Options: Customize with your favorite toppings for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create these scrumptious 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
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Variations

One of the best things about this Apple Cider Donuts recipe is its flexibility! You can easily incorporate different flavors or textures to suit your taste. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy surprise.
• Try Different Spices: Swap out apple pie spice with pumpkin spice or nutmeg for a unique twist.
• Frosting Fun: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider for extra sweetness.
• Fruit Additions: Fold in small pieces of fresh apples into the batter for delightful chunks in every bite.

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your donuts will bake evenly and perfectly.

Step 2: Melt the Butter and Mix with Cider

In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the apple cider and set aside. The warmth helps blend flavors beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and apple pie spice. Setting this aside allows the flavors to meld while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and large egg into the cider-butter mixture until well combined. This step adds sweetness and richness to your donuts.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

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

Step 6: Prepare Your Donut Pan

If your donut pan isn’t non-stick, spray it with cooking spray. Then fill a piping bag with your batter (or use a spoon) and carefully pipe it into each cavity.

Step 7: Bake Your Donuts

Bake for around 7 minutes—keep an eye on them! A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into one of the donuts. Let them cool on a rack for just one minute before removing.

Step 8: Make Your Topping

While your donuts are baking, melt some additional butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix together cinnamon, brown sugar, and white sugar.

Step 9: Coat Your Donuts

Dip each donut into the melted butter first, then coat it lightly in the cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing it back on the cooling rack.

And there you have it—delicious homemade Apple Cider Donuts that will fill your home with warmth and joy! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donuts

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

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh cider enhances the flavor of your donuts and gives them that authentic autumn taste that everyone loves. Avoid using overly processed or bottled options for best results.

• Don’t over-mix the batter: Mixing too vigorously can lead to dense donuts. Stir until just combined to keep them light and fluffy.

• Let the donuts cool slightly before dipping: Allowing your baked donuts to cool for about a minute helps the butter mixture adhere better, ensuring a delicious coating.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the apple pie spice or add nutmeg for a unique flavor twist. Customizing the spices can elevate your donuts and make them your own!

• Store properly: To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donuts

Serving these scrumptious apple cider donuts can be as fun as making them! With a few thoughtful touches, you can create an inviting presentation that impresses family and friends.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds an elegant touch and sweetness without overwhelming the flavor.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some finely chopped walnuts or pecans on top for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture of the donuts.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: Serve warm apple cider alongside your donuts for a cozy pairing that enhances the fall flavors.
• Vanilla yogurt: A dollop of creamy vanilla yogurt provides a refreshing contrast and adds creaminess that balances sweetness.
• Fruit salad: A vibrant fruit salad with seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries adds freshness and brightness to your dessert table.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea is perfect for sipping alongside these delightful treats, creating a comforting autumn experience.

Now you’re all set to enjoy these delicious apple cider donuts! Whether it’s a chilly morning or a festive gathering, they are sure to delight everyone who tries them. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These delectable apple cider donuts are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to savor the flavors of autumn throughout the week! Making a batch in advance means you can enjoy fresh, warm donuts whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer freshness, consider refrigerating them, where they will last for about a week.

Freezing

• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place the wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the donuts on a baking sheet and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Alternatively, you can microwave each donut for about 10-15 seconds for a quick treat.

FAQs

Got questions? Let’s answer some common ones about these delightful apple cider donuts!

Can I make apple cider donuts without eggs?

Absolutely! You can replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) or applesauce (1/4 cup). This will keep your donuts moist and delicious!

What is the best way to store apple cider donuts?

To keep your apple cider donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to save them longer, freeze them wrapped individually!

How do I make baked apple cider donuts?

This recipe is already for baked apple cider donuts! Just follow the steps outlined above and enjoy the fluffy texture of these delightful treats without frying.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that it may give your donuts a denser texture but still delicious!

Final Thoughts

These apple cider donuts are truly special – they capture the essence of fall with every bite! I hope you enjoy making this recipe as much as I do. There’s something comforting and joyous about sharing homemade treats with family and friends. So roll up your sleeves and let your kitchen fill with delightful aromas. Happy baking!