These Apple Cider Donuts are the perfect fall treat! Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with the rich flavor of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider. Coated in a sweet cinnamon-sugar mixture, they’re sure to satisfy your fall cravings.
Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of coffee or serving them at a holiday gathering, these donuts will add a touch of warmth to your day. They’re simple to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones during chilly autumn mornings.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 cup apple cider
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1/2 cup sugar
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2 teaspoons baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 large egg
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1/2 cup buttermilk
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4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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Vegetable oil for frying
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1 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
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1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
Directions:
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In a medium saucepan, bring apple cider to a boil over medium heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook until the cider is reduced to about 1/2 cup, approximately 10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and the reduced apple cider.
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Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The dough will be sticky.
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Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thick. Use a donut cutter to cut out the donuts.
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In a large pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the donuts in batches, cooking each side for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels.
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Mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. While the donuts are still warm, coat them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 12 donuts
The Origins of Apple Cider Donuts
Apple cider donuts have deep roots in American culinary traditions. They are believed to have originated in New England and the Mid-Atlantic regions, where apple orchards are abundant. These areas are known for their apple harvests, and apple cider donuts became a popular way to use the freshly pressed cider during the autumn season. They’re often made to celebrate the harvest, providing a delicious way to enjoy the abundance of apples. Whether served at local fairs, apple festivals, or at home during family gatherings, apple cider donuts have become synonymous with the joys of fall.
The classic version of these donuts is fried, though some variations may be baked to offer a lighter alternative. Regardless of the method used, the combination of apple cider and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes allspice gives these donuts their unmistakable flavor profile. Over the years, apple cider donuts have remained a beloved fall treat and continue to be a go-to snack when the weather turns cooler.
Why Apple Cider Donuts Are So Popular
Apple cider donuts have a special place in many people’s hearts for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, they are a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of fall. The season is often associated with cozy, comforting foods that evoke a sense of nostalgia, and these donuts do just that. The spiced dough, combined with the slightly tangy apple cider flavor, makes for an irresistible treat that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
Another reason for their popularity is their versatility. Apple cider donuts can be enjoyed in numerous ways, whether you’re having them for breakfast with a cup of coffee, as a snack in the afternoon, or as a dessert after dinner. Their soft, fluffy texture makes them a perfect pairing with a warm beverage, making them especially comforting on chilly mornings. Additionally, the cinnamon-sugar coating adds a sweet and slightly crunchy element that enhances the flavor of the donuts.
Moreover, apple cider donuts are incredibly easy to make at home. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, the recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require any fancy equipment or techniques. All you need is a donut cutter, a pot for frying, and a little patience while you fry the donuts to perfection. The best part is that you can enjoy them fresh and hot, straight from the frying pan, which makes them even more special.
The Flavor Profile of Apple Cider Donuts
The flavor of an apple cider donut is a perfect harmony of sweet and spicy with a hint of tanginess from the apple cider. The apple cider imparts a subtle, fruity sweetness that blends beautifully with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg. These spices evoke the familiar aromas of fall, such as those from a warm apple pie or a spiced cider. The deep, earthy tones of the cinnamon and nutmeg come through in every bite, creating a comforting and satisfying flavor profile that’s perfectly suited for the season.
The texture of apple cider donuts is another defining characteristic. They are typically cake-like, soft, and tender on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior. When fried, the outside gets golden brown and crispy, while the inside remains moist and fluffy. This combination of textures makes each bite enjoyable, whether you’re savoring the crunchy outside or the soft, pillowy interior.
The addition of cinnamon sugar coating on the outside enhances the flavor by adding a sweet, spiced crunch that contrasts with the soft interior of the donut. This coating is what truly elevates the apple cider donuts, adding extra flavor and texture to each bite. If you prefer an even richer taste, you can also drizzle the donuts with a glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider for an extra touch of sweetness.
Frying vs. Baking: Which Is Better?
There are two main methods for making apple cider donuts: frying and baking. Both methods produce delicious results, but each offers a slightly different experience.
Frying the donuts is the traditional method and results in a rich, crispy exterior that contrasts wonderfully with the soft interior. When done correctly, frying gives the donuts a satisfying crunch that adds to the overall texture. The oil also seals in the moisture, keeping the donuts fresh and soft on the inside. While frying may seem intimidating for beginners, it’s surprisingly simple and can be done with a deep pot and a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at the correct temperature.
Baked apple cider donuts, on the other hand, are a healthier alternative to fried donuts. They have a lighter texture and a slightly less crispy exterior, but they are still delicious. The batter is poured into donut pans and baked in the oven, which eliminates the need for oil. While they may not have the same crispiness as fried donuts, baked versions are still moist and flavorful, with the added benefit of being less oily.
The choice between frying and baking depends on personal preference. If you love the traditional taste and texture of a donut, frying is the way to go. However, if you prefer a lighter, healthier version, baked apple cider donuts will still satisfy your cravings.
Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Donuts
To ensure that your apple cider donuts turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
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Reduce the Cider: Reducing the apple cider to a concentrated syrup enhances its flavor and prevents the donuts from being too watery. The reduction process intensifies the sweetness and apple flavor, giving your donuts the perfect apple cider taste.
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Don’t Overmix the Batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts, which isn’t ideal. Mix until the dough comes together, but leave some lumps.
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Use a Thermometer: If you’re frying the donuts, it’s important to maintain the correct oil temperature. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is between 350°F and 375°F. If the oil is too hot, the donuts will burn on the outside while remaining raw on the inside. If the oil is too cool, the donuts will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
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Fry in Batches: Don’t overcrowd the frying pan. Fry the donuts in small batches to ensure even cooking and a crisp exterior. Overcrowding the pan can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in soggy donuts.
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Let the Donuts Drain: After frying, let the donuts drain on paper towels to remove excess oil before coating them in cinnamon sugar. This will ensure that they’re not too greasy.
Conclusion
Apple cider donuts are the perfect fall treat, combining the rich, warm flavors of autumn with a deliciously crispy and soft texture. Whether you’re baking them to share at a family gathering or enjoying them alone with a hot cup of coffee, these donuts offer a nostalgic taste of the season. While frying is the traditional method, baked versions also offer a lighter, healthier alternative. Regardless of how you make them, these donuts are sure to become a favorite in your fall baking repertoire. With a little patience and a few simple tips, you can create perfect apple cider donuts right in your own kitchen, filling your home with the cozy scents of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider.