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.
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.
Instructions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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