As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, one seasonal treat always comes to mind: apple cider donuts. These deliciously spiced, tender treats are a staple at fall festivals and farmers’ markets, but you don’t have to wait for a special occasion to enjoy them. With our easy-to-follow apple cider donuts recipe, you can bring the taste of autumn into your kitchen.
The Secret to Perfect Apple Cider Donuts
Reducing the apple cider is essential to achieving the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Simmering the cider on the stove for about 20-30 minutes concentrates its flavor, giving the donuts a more intense apple taste. This reduction is the secret ingredient that sets these donuts apart from regular cinnamon sugar donuts.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- Oil for frying
- Cinnamon sugar for coating
Directions:
1. Reduce the Apple Cider: Bring the apple cider to a boil over medium heat in a small saucepan. Reduce the heat and simmer until it’s reduced to about 1/2 cup. Allow it to cool.
2. Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. Combine Wet Ingredients: Stir in the reduced apple cider and buttermilk.
5. Form the Dough: Gradually mix the dry and wet ingredients until combined. The dough will be sticky.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
7. Roll and Cut: Roll the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness on a floured surface. Cut out donut shapes using a donut cutter or a round cutter.
8. Fry the Donuts: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F. Fry the donuts in batches until golden brown, about 1 minute per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
9. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While still warm, toss the donuts in cinnamon sugar to coat.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the wet and dry ingredients until they are incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts.
- Maintain Oil Temperature: A thermometer ensures the oil stays at the correct temperature. If the oil is too hot, the donuts will burn on the outside before cooking through. They will absorb too much oil and become greasy if it’s too cool.
- Serve Fresh: Apple cider donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two.
Conclusion
There’s no need to wait for a trip to the orchard to enjoy apple cider donuts. With this simple recipe, you can savor the flavors of fall any time you like. Whether hosting a cozy brunch or craving a seasonal treat, these donuts satisfy your autumnal cravings.
