Warm Apple Cider Donuts Recipe
Introduction
Apple cider donuts are a delightful treat that perfectly capture the flavors of fall. They combine the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweet tang of apple cider for a moist, flavorful bite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Reduce the apple cider by simmering it in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens to about 1/2 cup, then let it cool.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction.
- Step 4: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Step 5: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a donut pan.
- Step 6: Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
- Step 7: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts turn golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Step 8: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before removing them from the pan. Optionally, toss warm donuts in cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor, or substitute with apple juice if needed.
- Try adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for extra warmth.
- For extra moist donuts, you can add a tablespoon of sour cream or yogurt to the batter.
- If you don’t have a donut pan, bake the batter in a muffin tin and adjust baking time accordingly.
Storage
Store apple cider donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them longer, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven before serving to restore freshness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I fry these donuts instead of baking?
This recipe is designed for baking. Traditional apple cider donuts can be fried, but the batter and technique would need adjustments to handle frying safely and effectively.
How do I make the apple cider reduction?
Simply simmer apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces from 2 cups down to about 1/2 cup. This concentrates the flavor and adds moisture to the donuts.
PrintWarm Apple Cider Donuts Recipe
These Apple Cider Donuts are a delightful treat combining the warm flavors of spiced apple cider with a tender, cakey texture. Perfectly golden and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, they offer a cozy bite that’s ideal for autumn mornings or festive gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 donuts 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Reduce the Apple Cider: Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it has reduced to about 1/4 cup. This concentrates the flavor and intensifies the apple taste. Allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled apple cider reduction, vegetable oil, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt to ensure even distribution of the spices and leavening agents.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the donut batter light and tender.
- Fill Donut Pan: Lightly grease a donut pan. Spoon the batter into each mold, filling about three-quarters full to allow room for rising.
- Bake the Donuts: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the donuts are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let them cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating: In a shallow dish, mix 1/2 cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
- Coat the Donuts: While the donuts are still warm, gently brush them with melted butter, then dip each donut into the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat thoroughly.
- Serve: Enjoy your apple cider donuts fresh for the best flavor and texture. They pair wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or cider.
Notes
- Ensure the apple cider reduction is completely cool before mixing it with eggs to avoid cooking them.
- If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin but the shape will be different.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of ginger or allspice to the dry spices.
- Do not overmix the batter to prevent dense donuts.
- Donuts are best consumed the same day but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Keywords: Apple Cider Donuts, Fall Dessert, Baked Donuts, Spiced Donuts, Cinnamon Sugar Donuts
