Apple Cider Donuts

If you’re looking for a sweet treat that captures the essence of autumn, you’ve come to the right place! These Apple Cider Donuts are not only delightful but also fill your kitchen with cozy scents that will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Whether you’re whipping them up for a busy weeknight dessert or sharing them at a family gathering, these donuts are sure to bring smiles all around.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and the fact that they are baked instead of fried. This means you can enjoy these delicious bites without any of the fuss. Plus, they’re perfect for those chilly fall mornings paired with your favorite cup of coffee or tea!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have fresh donuts in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love dipping these in cinnamon sugar, making it a fun activity for everyone.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple pantry staples, you can feel good about what you’re serving.
• Perfectly Spiced: The apple pie spice adds a warm flavor that screams autumn with every bite.
• Make Ahead Treats: These donuts store well, so you can enjoy them throughout the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s grab some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these Apple Cider Donuts. You probably have most of these in your kitchen already!

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 teaspoon cinnamon

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and customize these donuts to fit your taste.

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Try Different Spices: Swap out apple pie spice with pumpkin pie spice for a different twist.
• Glaze Instead of Dip: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider instead of dipping in cinnamon sugar.
• Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan for bite-sized treats that are even more fun to share!

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This is an important step because it ensures your donuts bake evenly and rise perfectly.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Mix with Cider

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

Step 3: Whisk Dry Ingredients Together

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and apple pie spice. Mixing these dry ingredients well helps distribute the leavening agent evenly throughout your batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter-cider mixture with granulated sugar and egg until fully blended. This creates a base that will add sweetness and richness to your donuts.

Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; we want our donuts fluffy and light!

Step 6: Prepare Your Donut Pan

Spray your donut pan with cooking spray if it’s not non-stick. Use a piping bag (or just a spoon) to fill each donut cavity evenly with batter—aim for about three-quarters full.

Step 7: Bake Your Donuts

Pop those babies into the preheated oven! Bake for about 7 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they bake; they can go from perfect to overdone quickly!

Step 8: Make Your Topping

While your donuts cool slightly after baking, melt more butter in one bowl for dipping. In another bowl, mix together brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon for coating.

Step 9: Coat Your Donuts

Once cooled for about a minute, dip each donut into melted butter then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture. This step adds that signature sweet crunch we all love!

Now you’re ready to share (or keep all for yourself)! Enjoy these delightful Apple Cider Donuts—they’re bound to become a cherished recipe in your kitchen too!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donuts

Making apple cider donuts is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a fun activity in the kitchen! Here are some pro tips to ensure your donuts turn out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh apple cider enhances the flavor of your donuts, giving them that authentic autumn taste. Avoid using processed or overly sweet ciders.

• Don’t over-mix the batter: Gently combine the wet and dry ingredients to avoid dense donuts. Over-mixing can lead to tough, chewy results instead of light and fluffy treats.

• Grease the pan well: If your donut pan isn’t non-stick, be generous with cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and ensure easy removal after baking, preserving the shape of your delicious donuts.

• Check for doneness: Since ovens vary, keep an eye on your donuts as they bake. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when they’re ready; this prevents over-baking and keeps them moist.

• Experiment with flavors: Don’t hesitate to add extras like chopped apples or nuts to your batter for added texture and flavor. This allows you to customize the recipe according to your taste preferences!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donuts

These delightful apple cider donuts can be enjoyed in various ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family breakfast or a festive gathering, here are some serving ideas:

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet touch and a lovely presentation.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the top creates an indulgent treat that pairs beautifully with the flavors of fall.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top adds crunch and complements the sweetness of the donuts.

Side Dishes

• Hot apple cider: Pairing these donuts with a warm cup of spiced apple cider creates a delightful seasonal beverage that enhances their flavor.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream served alongside warm donuts makes for an irresistible dessert combination.
• Fruit salad: A fresh fruit salad brings balance to the sweetness of the donuts while adding vibrant colors and textures to your plate.
• Yogurt parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruit offers a healthy side option, perfect for breakfast or brunch alongside these tasty treats.

Enjoy crafting and sharing these scrumptious apple cider donuts with friends and family this season!

Make Ahead and Storage

These apple cider donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them fresh throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Enjoy them within 2-3 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• Cool the donuts completely first.
• Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place the donuts in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warm.
• Alternatively, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to regain some crispness.

FAQs

If you have questions about making these delightful apple cider donuts, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other types of flour for apple cider donuts?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. Just keep in mind that it may slightly change the texture.

How do I make apple cider donuts without animal-derived gelatin?

This recipe is already free of animal-derived gelatin! You don’t need it for these delicious apple cider donuts since they rise beautifully with baking powder and egg.

What makes this apple cider donut recipe special?

This recipe captures the essence of fall, combining warm spices with sweet apple flavor. Plus, they’re baked instead of fried, making them a bit lighter!

What is the best way to enjoy my apple cider donuts?

These donuts are delightful on their own, but you can also pair them with a warm cup of cider or coffee. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds an extra touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these apple cider donuts as much as I do! They’re not just a treat; they’re a cozy reminder of autumn’s warmth and sweetness. Enjoy baking and sharing these delightful bites with your loved ones. Happy baking!