Apple Cider Donuts

Make this easy apple cider donut recipe and enjoy the delicious smells of the season in your kitchen this autumn! These Apple Cider Donuts are perfect for cozy gatherings, brunches, or simply as a delightful treat for yourself. With their warm spices and tender texture, they capture the essence of fall in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With only 17 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a batch in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider and warm spices creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy them as a dessert, snack, or breakfast option; they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Baked Not Fried: These donuts are baked, making them a lighter alternative to traditional fried donuts.
• Easy Clean-Up: Using a donut pan means less mess compared to frying, and they come out perfectly shaped!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your apple cider donuts, gather the essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: This tool shapes your donuts perfectly without the hassle of frying.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps keep ingredients organized during preparation.
• Whisk: A good whisk ensures all ingredients blend smoothly for an even batter.

Ingredients

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
• 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 Apple Cider Donuts bake evenly.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Combine with Cider

In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the apple cider once melted and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 3: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt
4. Apple pie spice

Set this mixture aside while you combine wet ingredients.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. The granulated sugar
2. The egg
3. The cooled butter and cider mixture until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently stir together the wet mixture with the dry ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix; some lumps are okay!

Step 6: Fill Donut Pan

Spray your donut pan with cooking spray if it isn’t non-stick. Transfer the batter into a piping bag or use a spoon to fill each mold evenly.

Step 7: Bake Your Donuts

Bake for approximately 7 minutes. Keep an eye on them! Use a toothpick to check for doneness; they should spring back when lightly pressed.

Step 8: Make Topping While Baking

While the donuts are baking, melt more butter in a small bowl for dipping later. In another bowl, mix together:
– Brown sugar
– Granulated sugar
– Cinnamon

Step 9: Coat Your Donuts

Once cooled slightly (about one minute), dip each donut into the melted butter first then coat it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture before placing them back on a cooling rack.

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 are hosting a gathering or simply indulging on your own, these donuts offer a versatile serving experience. Here are some creative ways to serve them.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee – Pairing apple cider donuts with a freshly brewed cup of coffee enhances their flavor and makes for a cozy treat.
• Hot Chocolate – The sweetness of hot chocolate complements the spiced flavors in the donuts, creating a comforting combination.
• Herbal Tea – A warm herbal tea provides a lighter option that balances out the richness of the donuts.

Topped with Extras

• Caramel Drizzle – Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce brings an extra layer of sweetness to each bite.
• Whipped Cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds creaminess and lightens the overall dessert experience.
• Chopped Nuts – Sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Mini Desserts – Serve apple cider donuts alongside mini cheesecakes or brownies for a delightful dessert spread.
• Seasonal Fruits – Accompany them with slices of apples or pears to enhance their autumnal appeal.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donuts

Creating the ultimate apple cider donuts involves paying attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Apple Cider – Fresh cider will give your donuts the best flavor and aroma, enhancing their seasonal essence.
• Don’t Over-Mix Batter – Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep the donuts light and fluffy; over-mixing can lead to dense treats.
• Check Oven Temperature – Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.
• Cool Properly – Letting the donuts cool on a rack prevents them from becoming soggy, maintaining their delightful texture.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste; adding nutmeg or ginger can give unique flavor notes.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donuts

Apple cider donuts can stand alone as a delicious treat, but pairing them with complementary side dishes elevates the experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie pairs wonderfully with the sweet and spiced notes of the donuts.
2. Fruit Salad – A fresh fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits like apples, pears, and berries enhances the fall theme and adds freshness.
3. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a tasty contrast that adds creaminess alongside your crispy donuts.
4. Nut Butter Dip – Serve almond or peanut butter as a dip for an extra protein boost that complements the sweetness of the donuts.
5. Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup offers savory comfort that contrasts nicely with sweet apple cider flavors.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips – These crunchy, sweet chips make an excellent snack alongside apple cider donuts, offering different textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cider Donuts, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes and tips to avoid them.

• Skipping the preheating step: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to tough donuts. Mix until just combined for a tender result.
• Not using a non-stick spray: If your donut pan is not non-stick, be sure to spray it with cooking spray. This prevents sticking and makes removal easier.
• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your donuts while they bake. They can overbake quickly, leading to dry donuts.
• Forgetting cooling time: Let the donuts cool for at least a minute before removing them from the pan. This helps maintain their shape.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.

Freezing Apple Cider Donuts

• Wrap each donut individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store wrapped donuts in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Donuts

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the donuts for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 10-15 seconds per donut, but be careful not to overheat as they may become tough.
• Stovetop: Place a skillet over low heat and warm each donut for about 1-2 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Apple Cider Donuts that might help you along the way.

Can I use whole wheat flour in this Apple Cider Donuts recipe?

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

How do I make these Apple Cider Donuts vegan?

To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water). Use plant-based butter instead of regular butter.

What can I use instead of apple pie spice?

If you don’t have apple pie spice, use cinnamon and nutmeg as alternatives. A combination of these spices provides similar flavor notes.

How do I make Apple Cider Donuts gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour to make these donuts gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

These delicious Apple Cider Donuts are perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy weekends at home. Their delightful flavor and warm spices make them irresistible! Feel free to customize them with different toppings or glazes to suit your taste preferences; the options are endless!

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Apple Cider Donuts

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of autumn with these easy Apple Cider Donuts. Perfectly baked, not fried, these donuts are infused with warm spices and apple cider, creating a soft and tender treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With just 17 minutes from start to finish, they are ideal for cozy gatherings, brunches, or as a sweet snack for yourself. Enjoy them fresh from the oven, coated in a cinnamon-sugar topping, or get creative with drizzles and toppings to elevate your experience.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup apple cider
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon apple pie spice
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt butter in a saucepan and mix it with apple cider; let cool slightly.
3. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and apple pie spice.
4. In another bowl, combine granulated sugar, egg, and cooled butter-cider mixture until smooth.
5. Fold wet ingredients into dry ingredients gently until combined.
6. Fill a donut pan with the batter and bake for about 7 minutes or until they spring back when pressed.
7. Prepare the topping by mixing melted butter with brown sugar and cinnamon while the donuts bake.
8. Dip warm donuts in melted butter then coat with cinnamon-sugar.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 donut (45g)
• Calories: 150
• Sugar: 9g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg