What are Apple Cider Donuts?

Apple cider donuts are a delicious, spiced treat that perfectly embodies the cozy flavors of fall. With the warm and comforting taste of apple cider, these donuts are soft, fluffy, and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of cider or on their own, these donuts are an irresistible indulgence perfect for any occasion.

Made with apple cider that’s reduced to concentrate the flavors, these donuts offer a sweet, slightly tangy twist, making them a fall favorite at bakeries and farmer’s markets. Their soft texture paired with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg offers a truly comforting experience.

The Origin of Apple Cider Donuts

Apple cider donuts have deep roots in New England, where apple orchards are abundant, and the harvest season brings an array of cider-inspired treats. Historically, apple cider was a staple in many New England homes during autumn, and combining it with a fried or baked donut became a way to use up leftover cider. These donuts became especially popular in the 1950s and have been a beloved seasonal snack ever since.

While they are most commonly associated with New England and the northeast United States, apple cider donuts have spread across the country, becoming a fall tradition for many families. Today, you can find them at autumn festivals, farms, and even in local grocery stores during the fall months. Their popularity continues to grow, cementing their status as the quintessential fall dessert.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Donuts

Before diving into the baking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to make these delicious apple cider donuts.

For the Donuts:

• 1 ½ cups apple cider: This ingredient provides the signature apple flavor. Reducing the cider intensifies its flavor and gives the donuts that delicious apple taste.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of the donut, providing the dough with a light, fluffy texture.
• 1 tsp baking powder: This helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.
• ½ tsp baking soda: Works with the baking powder to give the donuts their soft, airy texture.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, a key flavor component of the donut.
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg: A perfect pairing with cinnamon, nutmeg brings a touch of warmth and depth to the flavor.
• ¼ tsp salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances out the flavors.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the donuts.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and to help with the donut’s light texture.
• ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark): Brown sugar adds a slight molasses flavor, giving the donuts a deeper sweetness.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and moisture to the batter.
• ½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar as a substitute): Adds tang and tenderness to the donuts.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: For a touch of vanilla flavor that complements the spices.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the donuts.
• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon: Pairs perfectly with the sugar for a sweet, spiced coating.
• 3 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing): Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the donuts.

Step-by-Step Directions for Apple Cider Donuts

Now that you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to make the donuts! Follow this simple guide to prepare your apple cider donuts.

1. Reduce the Cider

Start by placing the apple cider in a small saucepan and simmering it over medium heat. Let it cook down until it reduces to about ½ cup. This will concentrate the apple flavor and make the cider more intense. Once reduced, allow the cider to cool down.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This combination of dry ingredients helps to ensure that your donuts are light and fluffy, with that signature spiced flavor.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced cider. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. The dough will be thick, but this is exactly how it should be. Don’t overmix, as this could make the donuts tough.

5. Fill the Donut Pan

Grease your donut pan well to prevent sticking. Then, spoon or pipe the donut batter into the molds, filling each one about ¾ full. This will ensure your donuts rise to the right size during baking.

6. Bake the Donuts

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the donuts for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and springy to the touch. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a donut – if it comes out clean, they’re ready.

7. Coat the Donuts in Cinnamon Sugar

Once the donuts have cooled slightly, brush each one with the melted butter. Then, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly. This step gives them that irresistible, sweet, and spicy crunch on the outside.

Tips & Variations for Apple Cider Donuts

While this recipe is delicious as is, there are a few ways you can switch it up to make these donuts your own. Here are some tips and variations:

No Donut Pan?

If you don’t have a donut pan, you can still make these donuts! Simply use a muffin tin instead and call them “donut muffins.” They won’t have the classic donut shape, but they’ll taste just as delicious.

Add a Glaze

If you prefer a sweeter treat, consider adding a glaze. A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and cider can give your donuts an extra layer of sweetness and a glossy finish.

Storage Tips for Apple Cider Donuts

These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for about 2-3 days, but they’re so tasty, they’ll likely disappear before that!

FAQs About Apple Cider Donuts

1. Can I make apple cider donuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the donuts ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the best results, warm them up slightly before serving.

2. Can I freeze apple cider donuts?
Yes, you can freeze these donuts. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply bake them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes.

3. Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use regular milk, but buttermilk adds a tangy flavor and a tender crumb to the donuts. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with milk and a teaspoon of vinegar to mimic the acidity of buttermilk.

4. Are these donuts gluten-free?
You can make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check the specific blend’s instructions for any adjustments needed to the recipe.

Conclusion: The Perfect Fall Treat

Apple cider donuts are the ultimate fall treat, bringing together the comforting flavors of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whether you’re making them for a cozy afternoon snack or serving them at a gathering, these donuts will surely impress. With a simple recipe, a few key ingredients, and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to enjoy the taste of fall anytime. So why not indulge in the warmth and flavor of these homemade apple cider donuts today?

 The Ultimate Guide to Making Apple Cider Donuts: A Delicious Fall Treat

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• Author: David Andersson
• Total Time: 25 mins
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Apple cider donuts are a delicious, spiced treat that perfectly embodies the cozy flavors of fall. With the warm and comforting taste of apple cider, these donuts are soft, fluffy, and coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of cider or on their own, these donuts are an irresistible indulgence perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 1 ½ cups apple cider: This ingredient provides the signature apple flavor. Reducing the cider intensifies its flavor and gives the donuts that delicious apple taste.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The main structure of the donut, providing the dough with a light, fluffy texture.

• 1 tsp baking powder: This helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.

• ½ tsp baking soda: Works with the baking powder to give the donuts their soft, airy texture.

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice, a key flavor component of the donut.

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg: A perfect pairing with cinnamon, nutmeg brings a touch of warmth and depth to the flavor.

• ¼ tsp salt: Enhances the sweetness and balances out the flavors.

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the donuts.

• ½ cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and to help with the donut’s light texture.

• ¼ cup brown sugar (light or dark): Brown sugar adds a slight molasses flavor, giving the donuts a deeper sweetness.

• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and moisture to the batter.

• ½ cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar as a substitute): Adds tang and tenderness to the donuts.

• 1 tsp vanilla extract: For a touch of vanilla flavor that complements the spices.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the donuts.

• 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon: Pairs perfectly with the sugar for a sweet, spiced coating.

• 3 tbsp butter, melted (for brushing): Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere to the donuts.

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Instructions

1. Reduce the Cider

Start by placing the apple cider in a small saucepan and simmering it over medium heat. Let it cook down until it reduces to about ½ cup. This will concentrate the apple flavor and make the cider more intense. Once reduced, allow the cider to cool down.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This combination of dry ingredients helps to ensure that your donuts are light and fluffy, with that signature spiced flavor.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced cider. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. The dough will be thick, but this is exactly how it should be. Don’t overmix, as this could make the donuts tough.

5. Fill the Donut Pan

Grease your donut pan well to prevent sticking. Then, spoon or pipe the donut batter into the molds, filling each one about ¾ full. This will ensure your donuts rise to the right size during baking.

6. Bake the Donuts

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the donuts for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and springy to the touch. You can check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of a donut – if it comes out clean, they’re ready.

7. Coat the Donuts in Cinnamon Sugar

Once the donuts have cooled slightly, brush each one with the melted butter. Then, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture, ensuring they are coated evenly. This step gives them that irresistible, sweet, and spicy crunch on the outside.

Notes

These donuts taste even better the next day! Store in an airtight container and enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Keywords:  The Ultimate Guide to Making Apple Cider Donuts