why make this recipe
Homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. Made with fresh apples and warm spices, these doughnuts are soft, fluffy, and bursting with apple flavor. They are perfect for enjoying on a crisp autumn day or sharing with family and friends. Plus, making them at home allows you to control the ingredients and create a delicious treat that’s free from preservatives.
how to make Homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts
Ingredients:
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Oil, for frying
- Cinnamon sugar (optional, for coating)
Directions:
- In a medium saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to about 1 cup. Allow it to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and cooled apple cider, and mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter to cut out the doughnuts and holes.
- Heat the oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- If desired, toss the warm doughnuts in cinnamon sugar for added sweetness.
how to serve Homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts
Serve your Homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts warm with a cup of apple cider or coffee. They make a perfect snack or dessert. You can also serve them with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a side of whipped cream for a special treat.
how to store Homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts
Store any leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To enjoy them fresh again, warm them in the microwave for a few seconds. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just thaw and warm them up before serving.
tips to make Homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts
- Make sure to reduce the apple cider well to enhance the flavor.
- Don’t overmix the dough to keep the doughnuts light and fluffy.
- Use a thermometer to check oil temperature for even frying.
- Experiment with different spices such as allspice or ginger for a unique taste.
variation
You can add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor. For a healthier option, try baking the doughnuts instead of frying them.
FAQs
Can I make these doughnuts in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough the night before, then refrigerate it. Fry them fresh in the morning for best flavor.
Can I bake the doughnuts instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes. They may not be as crispy but will still be delicious.
What can I do if I don’t have a doughnut cutter?
You can use two round cookie cutters of different sizes to cut the doughnuts and holes. A glass can also work for cutting the doughnut shape.
Homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts
Ingredients
Doughnut Base
- 2 cups apple cider Simmered and reduced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Oil, for frying Heat oil to 350°F (175°C)
- Cinnamon sugar (optional, for coating)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a medium saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to about 1 cup. Allow it to cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until combined. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and cooled apple cider, and mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter to cut out the doughnuts and holes.
Cooking
- Heat the oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the doughnuts for about 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- If desired, toss the warm doughnuts in cinnamon sugar for added sweetness.