Apple Cider Donuts
These Apple Cider Donuts are golden, spiced, and perfectly crispy outside with a tender crumb inside. A delicious fall treat you'll want to make again and again!
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter melted
- vegetable oil for frying
- additional sugar and cinnamon for coating
Instructions
Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
- Begin by gently simmering the apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reduces by half, about 10-15 minutes. This intensifies the apple flavor and thickens the cider so it won’t make your batter too runny. Set aside to cool completely.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.
Step 3: Combine Sugars and Wet Ingredients
- In another bowl, beat the egg with granulated sugar and brown sugar until combined. Stir in the cooled apple cider reduction, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Step 4: Form the Batter
- Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
- Pour vegetable oil into your pot or deep fryer to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat to 350°F using your thermometer for accuracy.
Step 6: Fry the Donuts
- Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully drop 2-3 tablespoons of batter into the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and puffed. Don’t overcrowd the pot to keep the temperature stable.
Step 7: Drain and Coat
- Remove donuts with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. While still warm, toss the donuts in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for that signature coating.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve these donuts warm for the best experience. They pair wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or apple cider. For a creative treat, try pairing them alongside Cinnamon Sugar Stuffed Baked Apples or Chocolate Swirl Apple Butter Bread.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer
- Thermometer
- Slotted spoon or spider strainer
- Wire rack
- Measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- Keep the oil temperature steady between 350°F and 375°F to ensure crispy but cooked-through donuts.
- Do not overmix the batter to maintain a tender crumb and avoid tough donuts.
- Store donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days; avoid refrigeration to prevent drying out.
- For variations, try adding ground cloves or allspice to the spice mix or drizzle with caramel sauce after frying.
- Batter can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; stir gently before frying.
