Description
These homemade Apple Cider Donuts are a perfect fall treat with a moist, tender crumb infused with warm spices and apple cider flavor. Fried to golden perfection and lightly coated in cinnamon sugar, they bring the nostalgic taste of autumn right into your kitchen.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Donut Batter
- 2 ½ cups apple cider (600mL)
- ½ cup light brown sugar (110g)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (50g)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (85g)
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (420g)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
For Frying
- Peanut or vegetable oil (enough for deep frying)
Instructions
- Reduce the Apple Cider: In a medium saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces down to about ½ cup, concentrating its flavor and creating a syrup-like consistency. This step enhances the rich apple taste in your donuts.
- Mix Cinnamon Sugar: While the cider reduces, combine 1 cup granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon in a separate bowl, set aside for coating the fried donuts later.
- Prepare Batter Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the reduced apple cider, light brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, eggs, and melted butter until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, baking soda, ground cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. Mixing the spices evenly ensures balanced flavor in each donut.
- Mix Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender and light.
- Heat Oil: Heat peanut or vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to maintain consistent frying temperature for even cooking.
- Fry Donuts: Carefully drop spoonfuls or dough portions into the hot oil, frying a few at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry each donut until golden brown on both sides, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Drain and Coat: Remove donuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels briefly to remove excess oil. While still warm, toss the donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture until thoroughly coated.
- Serve: Enjoy the donuts warm for the best flavor and texture. These can be served fresh or at room temperature and make a delightful autumn breakfast or snack.
Notes
- Super moist and flavorful, you will love these easy apple cider donuts.
- These homemade donuts distinctly taste of fall with every bite.
- Use fresh apple cider and reduce it properly for maximum flavor.
- Maintain oil temperature for perfect frying results and less greasy donuts.
- Leftover donuts can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 donut
- Calories: 223
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 218mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 28mg
