Apple Cider Donuts

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of autumn, these Apple Cider Donuts are just what you need! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites, as it fills the kitchen with such delightful aromas while baking. They are soft, sweet, and perfectly spiced – just like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want to indulge after a long week, these donuts will surely bring smiles all around.

These Apple Cider Donuts are not only delicious but also easy to whip up. You can make them in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sunday brunches. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 17 minutes from start to finish! Perfect for when you want something sweet without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these donuts! They are fun to make and even more fun to eat. Get the whole family involved in the process.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can bake these donuts ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week. Just warm them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving!
• Irresistibly Delicious: The combination of apple cider and spices creates an unforgettable flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making these Apple Cider Donuts requires simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what you need!

For the Donuts:

• 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 teaspoons cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add a Glaze: Drizzle some vanilla or maple glaze over the cooled donuts for an extra touch of sweetness.
• Incorporate Nuts: Fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch.
• Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger to create your own unique flavor profile.
• Make Mini Donuts: Use a mini donut pan for bite-sized treats that are perfect for snacking!

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures that your donuts bake evenly and come out perfectly fluffy.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, stir in the apple cider and set this mixture aside. This step combines flavors and helps keep your donuts moist.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and apple pie spice. This allows each ingredient to be evenly distributed throughout your batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and egg into the cider and butter mixture until well combined. This step helps create a smooth batter that blends beautifully with dry ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold together the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; this will help keep your donuts tender.

Step 6: Prepare Your Pan

If your donut pan isn’t non-stick, spray it lightly with cooking spray. Then transfer your batter into a piping bag or use a spoon to fill each donut cavity evenly.

Step 7: Bake Your Donuts

Place your filled pan in the oven and bake for about 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when they spring back lightly when touched or when you test with a toothpick—it should come out clean!

Step 8: Make the Topping

While those delicious donuts cool down for just a minute on a rack, prepare your topping by melting additional butter in one bowl and mixing together cinnamon with both sugars in another bowl.

Step 9: Coat Your Donuts

Dip each warm donut into the melted butter first, then coat it lightly with the sugar mixture. Place them back on the cooling rack so they can set up nicely before enjoying.

Now you’ve got yourself some delightful Apple Cider Donuts! Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for later – either way, they’re bound to be adored!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donuts

Making the perfect apple cider donuts can be a delightful experience, and with these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a batch that’s sure to impress!

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh apple cider provides the best flavor. It infuses the donuts with a rich, autumnal essence that enhances their taste.

• Don’t over-mix the batter: Gently combining the wet and dry ingredients will ensure your donuts are tender and fluffy. Over-mixing can lead to dense, tough donuts.

• Cool slightly before dipping: Letting the donuts cool for just a minute before dipping them into the butter mixture helps the toppings adhere better, resulting in a deliciously sweet coating.

• Experiment with spices: While apple pie spice is fantastic, don’t hesitate to try adding nutmeg or ginger for an extra kick. This personal touch can elevate your recipe even further!

• Store properly: To maintain freshness, store your apple cider donuts in an airtight container at room temperature. They are best enjoyed within a couple of days but can also be frozen for later enjoyment.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donuts

Apple cider donuts are not only delicious but also visually appealing! Presenting them well can make your cozy gatherings even more inviting. Here are some ideas to serve them up beautifully.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the cinnamon topping.
• Cinnamon stick garnish: Placing a cinnamon stick alongside each donut brings an aromatic element and enhances the seasonal feel.

Side Dishes

• Warm apple slices: Sauté some sliced apples in a bit of cinnamon and butter for a warm side that complements the flavors in the donuts perfectly.
• Creamy vanilla yogurt: A dollop of yogurt adds creaminess and balances out the sweetness of the donuts while making it feel like a complete dessert experience.
• Maple syrup drizzle: For those who enjoy an extra touch of sweetness, serving these donuts with warm maple syrup creates a lovely dip that pairs wonderfully with their flavor profile.
• Hot spiced tea or cider: Pairing your donuts with hot spiced tea or warmed apple cider will create a cozy atmosphere that’s perfect for autumn afternoons.

Embrace these serving suggestions to elevate your homemade apple cider donuts into something truly special! Enjoy every bite as you celebrate this delightful fall treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

These apple cider donuts are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them in advance and enjoy their delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature.
• They will stay fresh for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, consider refrigerating them for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the donuts to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
• Place frozen or refrigerated donuts on a baking sheet and warm them for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
• Enjoy them fresh as if they were just baked!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making apple cider donuts.

Can I make apple cider donuts gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it is a blend suitable for baking to achieve the best texture.

How long do apple cider donuts last?

When stored properly in an airtight container, apple cider donuts will last for up to 2 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator.

Can I use another type of cider for these donuts?

Absolutely! While apple cider is traditional, feel free to experiment with other fruit ciders like pear or cranberry for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

What makes these apple cider donuts special?

These donuts combine the warm, cozy flavors of autumn with a delightful cake-like texture. Baked instead of fried, they offer a lighter option without sacrificing taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful apple cider donuts as much as I do! They capture the essence of fall and fill your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Whether you’re sharing them with family or enjoying them solo, these little treats are sure to bring a smile to your face. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every bite!