Apple Cider Donuts

Make this easy apple cider donut recipe and enjoy the delicious smells of the season in your kitchen this autumn! Apple Cider Donuts are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a cozy evening at home. With their warm spices and sweet apple flavor, these donuts stand out as a delightful treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 17 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for a last-minute dessert.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider and spices creates a warm, inviting flavor that captures the essence of autumn.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy these donuts for breakfast, as a snack, or as a sweet ending to any meal.
• Baked, Not Fried: These donuts are baked instead of fried, offering a lighter alternative without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different spices or toppings to make them your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Apple Cider Donuts, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything on hand ensures a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Piping bag or spoon
• Small saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: This is essential for shaping the donuts perfectly while baking them evenly.
• Mixing bowls: Using separate bowls for wet and dry ingredients helps ensure proper mixing without overworking the batter.

Ingredients

For the Batter

• 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

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your donuts will bake properly and rise beautifully.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a small saucepan, melt 3 T butter. Stir in 1/3 cup apple cider, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon apple pie spice

Set this mixture aside while you combine the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
– The cooled butter and cider mixture.
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg

Mix until combined smoothly.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

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

Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan

If your donut pan is not non-stick, spray it with cooking spray. Transfer the batter into a piping bag or use a spoon to fill each donut cavity evenly with batter.

Step 7: Bake the Donuts

Bake in your preheated oven for approximately 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them while they bake; test with a toothpick for doneness. Once done, allow them to cool for about one minute before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Topping

While the donuts are baking, melt another 3 T butter. In a separate bowl, mix together:
– 1/3 cup brown sugar
– 1/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Step 9: Coat Your Donuts

Dip each donut in the melted butter first, then coat lightly in the sugar-cinnamon mixture. Place them back on the cooling rack until ready to serve.

Enjoy these delightful Apple Cider Donuts fresh from your oven!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donuts

Apple cider donuts are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying them solo, there are plenty of serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pairing these donuts with freshly brewed coffee enhances their flavor and provides a comforting start to your day.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A drizzle of maple syrup adds a sweet and rich touch, making each bite even more indulgent.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream on top creates a delicious contrast to the warm, spiced donuts.

Alongside Fresh Fruit

• Serving apple cider donuts with slices of fresh apples or pears adds a refreshing balance to their sweetness.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• For a decadent dessert, serve warm donuts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include apple cider donuts on a dessert platter with other seasonal treats for an inviting and festive display.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donuts

To ensure your apple cider donuts turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh apple cider – The quality of your apple cider directly affects the flavor. Opt for fresh-pressed cider for the best taste.

• Don’t over-mix – When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Over-mixing can result in dense donuts.

• Watch the baking time – Since ovens vary, keep an eye on your donuts as they bake. Remove them once they are lightly golden.

• Cool before coating – Allow the donuts to cool slightly before dipping them in butter and sugar to ensure better adhesion.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donuts

Apple cider donuts can be paired with several side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Chai Tea – The spices in chai tea pair beautifully with the cinnamon notes in the donuts.

2. Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup offers a savory contrast to the sweet flavors of the donuts.

3. Cheese Board – A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese adds a creamy texture that balances the sweetness.

4. Caramel Apples – These classic treats enhance the autumn theme and provide an extra layer of sweetness when served together.

5. Spiced Nuts – Crunchy spiced nuts add texture and complement the cinnamon flavor found in the donuts.

6. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad brings freshness and brightness, cutting through the richness of the baked goods.

7. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and fruit makes for a wholesome side that contrasts nicely with the indulgence of the donuts.

8. Tea Cakes – Lightly flavored tea cakes offer another sweet option without overpowering the delightful flavors of apple cider donuts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Cider Donuts can be a breeze, but avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to tough donuts. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Incorrect measurements can affect the donut’s flavor and texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the cooling rack: Letting donuts cool on a plate traps moisture, making them soggy. Always place them on a cooling rack.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven varies; an incorrect temperature affects baking time. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
• Using stale ingredients: Old baking powder or flour can ruin your donuts. Check expiration dates and use fresh ingredients.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• Use within 3–5 days for the best taste.

Freezing Apple Cider Donuts

• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Donuts

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one donut at a time for about 10-15 seconds for quick warming.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Donuts.

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

You can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose for best results.

How do I make gluten-free Apple Cider Donuts?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to replace regular flour in this recipe, ensuring other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What if I don’t have apple pie spice?

You can create your own mix using cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice as substitutes for apple pie spice.

How long do Apple Cider Donuts last?

When stored properly, they last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your donuts by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.

Final Thoughts

These Apple Cider Donuts are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize them with different spices or toppings. Enjoy the delightful flavors of autumn right from your kitchen by trying this simple recipe!