Name: Irresistibly Delicious Apple Cider Donuts – Crispy Outside, Soft Inside
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Apple Cider (Use unfiltered cider to intensify flavor); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Ensure it’s sifted); 3/4 cup Sugar (Regular or brown sugar); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Use fresh); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Essential for balance); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Adjust to taste); 1 large egg Egg (Binds ingredients); 1/2 cup Milk (Any type works); 2 cups Oil (Vegetable or canola oil); 1/2 cup Cinnamon Sugar Mixture (Combine sugar and cinnamon)

Apple Cider Donuts – Crispy Outside, Soft Inside, Cider in Every Bite

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets that unmistakable chill, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of home-baked treats. Picture this: the fragrant aroma of bubbling apple cider simmering on the stove, mixed with warm spices wafting through your kitchen. These Old-Fashioned Apple Cider Donuts – crispy on the outside and soft inside, with cider in every bite – will transport you to a cozy roadside orchard stall at the height of fall.

Perfect for weekend gatherings or a sweet afternoon snack, they’re deceptively easy to make, whether you choose to fry or bake them. With just a handful of ingredients like fresh apple cider, fragrant cinnamon, and all-purpose flour, you’ll delight both family and friends, making these donuts a new go-to comfort food. Grab a cup of coffee or some hot apple cider, and get ready to enjoy a delightful taste of autumn!

Why are Apple Cider Donuts so special?

Irresistibly delicious: With a perfect balance of crispy outside and soft inside, these donuts redefine what a sweet treat can be.
Intensely flavored with fresh apple cider, every bite is a delightful reminder of fall’s bounty.
Easily adaptable: Whether you prefer a quick baked version or the traditional fried treat, there’s a method for everyone.
Perfect for sharing, these donuts are a crowd-pleaser, making them ideal for gatherings or cozy family breakfasts.
Quick to whip up, you can go from mixing ingredients to enjoying warm donuts in no time. Enjoy with your favorite beverage, or pair them with some warm cider for the ultimate autumn experience!

Apple Cider Donuts Ingredients

Here's everything you need to create your blissful Apple Cider Donuts, both crispy outside and soft inside!

For the Batter

Apple Cider – Use unfiltered cider to intensify flavor and sweetness.
All-Purpose Flour – Ensure it’s sifted for a light and airy donut.
Sugar – Regular or brown sugar adds sweetness and enhances caramelization when frying.
Baking Powder – Make sure it’s fresh for the perfect rise in your donuts.
Salt – Essential for balancing the sweetness of your donuts.
Cinnamon – This spice gives your donuts their signature fall flavor; adjust to your taste.
Egg – Binds your ingredients together; large eggs work best.
Milk – Creates moisture; any type, including plant-based, will do.

For Frying

Oil – Use vegetable or canola oil for a crispy texture when frying. Keep it at 350°F for optimal frying results.

For Coating

Cinnamon Sugar Mixture – Combine sugar and cinnamon for a flavorful coating that adds extra sweetness and a delightful crunch.

These ingredients will come together to form the most delicious Apple Cider Donuts, making them the perfect comfort food for fall.

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts

Reduce Cider: In a large pot, bring the apple cider to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes until it thickens and intensifies in flavor.
Make Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the sifted flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually stir in the reduced cider, milk, and egg until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Chill Dough: Optionally, cover your dough and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle when shaping the donuts.
Shape Donuts: On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½ inch thick. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to cut out donut shapes, creating a hole in the center.
Fry or Bake:

Frying: Heat the oil in a deep skillet to 350°F. Carefully place the donuts into the hot oil, frying until golden brown on each side, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Arrange the shaped donuts on a greased baking tray and bake for about 10 minutes or until they’re golden.

Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: While the donuts are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat. This adds extra sweetness and a delightful crunch.

Optional: Drizzle with a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cider Donuts are a fantastic choice for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by covering it tightly and refrigerating, making it easier to handle when shaping. If you want to take it a step further, you can cut out the donuts and freeze them for up to 3 days before frying or baking; just ensure they are layered with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply fry or bake the donuts directly from the fridge or freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. This way, you’ll have warm, homemade donuts in no time, perfect for busy mornings or cozy gatherings!

What to Serve with Apple Cider Donuts?

As you savor the delightful flavor of these homemade treats, why not pair them with something equally heartwarming?

Hot Apple Cider: The classic pairing! Serve warm with spices for an aromatic experience that echoes the flavors of the donuts.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A sweet touch that complements the cinnamon notes in your donuts, adding a lovely, sticky sweetness.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a medley of autumn fruits balances the sweetness of the donuts while adding a vibrant splash of color to your table.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream carries hints of vanilla that beautifully contrast the spiced donuts.
Coffee or Tea: Brewed coffee or spiced chai makes the perfect cozy beverage to match the warm, comforting vibes of your autumnal snack.
Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses pairs wonderfully, enhancing the flavor profile of the cider donuts while introducing savory elements to your snack time.

With these delightful pairings, your apple cider donuts will shine as the centerpiece of a comforting fall treat tradition.

Storage Tips for Apple Cider Donuts

Room Temperature: Store cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain their fluffy texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncoated apple cider donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy warmer donuts, reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes or microwave for 15-20 seconds.

Coating Consideration: If you plan to freeze them, wait to coat the donuts in cinnamon sugar until after reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Apple Cider Donuts Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize these donuts to suit your taste buds or dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend for a delicious, inclusive treat.
Whole Wheat: Swap half or all of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. This adds a nutty flavor and a bit more fiber. But remember, this may slightly change the texture!
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk, and try a dairy-free yogurt instead of egg for a lighter variation.
Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a crunchy texture and a delightful surprise in each bite. It’s like a cozy hug for your taste buds!
Pumpkin Spice Twist: Mix in a tablespoon of pumpkin puree and adjust the spices for autumn's favorite flavor, creating a softly spiced delight that’s just too irresistible!
Cinnamon Sugar Upgrade: Enhance your coating by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the cinnamon-sugar mixture. It creates an exciting flavor profile that dances on your palate!
Sweet Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and cider over the donuts once they cool, bringing sweetness to every bite.
Fruity Addition: Incorporate finely chopped apples or even cranberries into the dough for an extra fruity burst that complements the apple cider beautifully.

Whichever variations you choose, your apple cider donuts will be a cherished treat for family and friends, showcasing the warmth and joy of homemade goodness this fall!

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Donuts

• Reduce Cider First: Always remember to reduce your apple cider before adding it to the dough; skipping this step can leave your donuts tasting bland.

• Temp Control while Frying: Keep your oil temperature steady at 350°F to achieve the perfect crispy outside for your apple cider donuts. Too low, and they absorb excess oil!

• Chill for Easier Handling: Refrigerate your dough for about 30 minutes before shaping. This helps prevent stickiness and makes cutting perfect donut shapes a breeze.

• Avoid Overcrowding: When frying, don’t overcrowd the pan. This prevents temperature drops and ensures even frying, giving you that desirable golden color.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to get creative! Add chopped nuts or try a glaze made of powdered sugar and cider for a unique twist on your apple cider donuts.

Apple Cider Donuts Recipe FAQs

What type of apple cider should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Apple Cider Donuts, it's ideal to use unfiltered apple cider. This type of cider is full of flavor and sweetness, which intensifies the overall taste of your donuts.

How should I store my apple cider donuts?
To keep your donuts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain their fluffy texture. If you want to keep them longer, freeze uncoated donuts. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze apple cider donuts after cooking?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Apple Cider Donuts, first, let them cool completely after frying or baking. Then, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for about 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5-10 minutes for the best texture. Avoid coating them in cinnamon sugar before freezing; do this after reheating for maximum crunch and flavor.

What if my donuts are too greasy after frying?
If your donuts end up greasy, it could be that the oil wasn’t hot enough during frying. Make sure to keep the oil at 350°F for optimal frying results. Additionally, be careful not to overcrowd the frying pan as this can cause the oil temperature to drop, leading to greasy donuts. Ensure the heat is high enough and let each donut cook without crowding for even frying results.

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?
Very much so! If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Many of these blends are designed to mimic the texture of wheat flour and will work well in the batter, giving you delicious Apple Cider Donuts without gluten. Just ensure the blend you choose has xanthan gum if your recipe doesn't already include it, as it helps bind the ingredients together.