Apple Cider Donuts

Apple Cider Donuts are a fall favorite, combining the cozy flavors of apple cider and warm spices in a delicious, fried treat. These donuts are soft and fluffy on the inside with a crispy outside, and they're coated in a sweet cinnamon sugar mixture that enhances the flavor of the spiced dough. Made with reduced apple cider, the dough is packed with apple flavor and spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Perfect for cool autumn mornings, these donuts are a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of hot apple cider or coffee.

INGREDIENTS

• Apple cider: 1 cup, reduced
• All-purpose flour: 2 cups
• Baking powder: 1 tsp
• Baking soda: ½ tsp
• Cinnamon: 1 tsp
• Nutmeg: ½ tsp
• Ground cloves: ¼ tsp
• Salt: ¼ tsp
• Unsalted butter: ¼ cup, softened
• Sugar: ½ cup
• Egg: 1 large
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Buttermilk: ½ cup
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: ½ cup sugar, 1 tbsp cinnamon

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to ¼ cup, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 2:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

Step 3:

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then add the vanilla extract, buttermilk, and reduced apple cider. Mix until smooth.

Step 4:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. The dough will be sticky.

Step 5:

Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to roll out.

Step 6:

On a well-floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to cut the dough into donut shapes.

Step 7:

Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 8:

While the donuts are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat. Serve warm.

Serving and Storage Tips

• For best results, serve the donuts warm for a crispy outside and soft inside.
• Leftover donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Helpful Notes

• Let the dough chill for at least 1 hour before rolling out to make it easier to handle.
• Be sure to heat the oil to the correct temperature for optimal frying.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef's Tip: Add a pinch of cardamom to the dough for an extra layer of warm spice.

FAQs

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the donuts at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, but frying will give them the best texture.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes, you can freeze the fried donuts for up to 2 months. Reheat them in the oven before serving.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with ½ cup milk mixed with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar.

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Conclusion

Apple Cider Donuts are the ultimate fall treat. These donuts are soft, fluffy, and full of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The dough is infused with reduced apple cider, giving it a rich apple flavor, and after frying, the donuts are tossed in a cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot apple cider or coffee on a crisp autumn day, these donuts are a must-try for fall gatherings or family breakfasts. They're best served warm for the perfect combination of crispy outside and tender inside. With a little chilling time to make shaping easier, these donuts come together quickly and are sure to impress!