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Apple Cider Donuts

Apple Cider Donuts

Experience the cozy flavors of fall with these homemade Apple Cider Donuts, combining the natural sweetness of real apple cider with warm cinnamon and nutmeg spices. Soft and tender on the inside with a lightly crisp exterior, these donuts are perfect for autumn mornings, gatherings, or as a comforting seasonal treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup apple cider (fresh, unsweetened)
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup milk or buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup melted butter

Dry Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Frying and Coating

  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar (for coating the warm donuts)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: Whisk together the eggs, milk (or buttermilk), melted butter, and apple cider in a large bowl until smooth and fragrant.
  2. Combine the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend), granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to create a light, lump-free mixture.
  3. Make the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender.
  4. Heat the Oil and Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop spoonfuls of dough or use a donut cutter to shape and fry in batches. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
  5. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Drain the fried donuts on paper towels, then immediately toss them in cinnamon sugar while still warm for a sticky, flavorful coating.

Notes

  • Oil Temperature Matters: Maintain a consistent 350°F to ensure even frying without burning.
  • Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg provide stronger aroma and better flavor.
  • Don’t Overmix: Mix batter just until combined for soft, tender donuts.
  • Drain Properly: Let donuts drain on paper towels to avoid greasiness.
  • Coat Warm: Toss donuts in cinnamon sugar right after frying to ensure the coating sticks well.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider donuts, fall recipes, autumn treats, cinnamon donuts, homemade donuts, gluten-free donuts, fried donuts