Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

If you’re anything like me, fall means apple picking, crisp air, and a craving for cozy treats. That’s why I’m so excited to share this Apple Cider Donuts Recipe with you — it’s everything you want in a doughnut: soft, spiced, and rolled in a heavenly cinnamon sugar coating. Honestly, once I tried this recipe, I was hooked. These donuts are perfect for breakfast, snack, or even dessert, and the best part? You can make them right at home with a few simple ingredients. Let’s dive in!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love about this Apple Cider Donuts Recipe is how the ingredients work together to create that irresistible flavor and soft texture. Don’t worry, the list might seem long but most are common, and having real apple and fresh apple cider really takes these donuts to another level.

• Apple cider: Use fresh or store-bought. Reducing it intensifies the flavor beautifully.
• Granulated sugar: Helps sweeten the donuts just right without overpowering.
• Brown sugar: Adds a lovely molasses depth and moisture.
• Unsalted butter: Softened for easy mixing, it brings richness.
• Eggs: Room temperature eggs blend better and help the dough rise nicely.
• Buttermilk: Adds that subtle tang and keeps the dough tender.
• Vanilla extract: Just a splash enhances the overall flavor profile.
• All-purpose flour: The base for a tender but sturdy donut dough.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Work together for perfect rise and crumb.
• Salt: Essential for balancing sweetness and enhancing flavor.
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Classic warm spices that make the donuts comforting.
• Apple (peeled, cored, grated): I recommend tart varieties like Macoun or Macintosh for brightness and moisture.
• Canola oil: For frying—any neutral oil with high smoke point works well.
• Cinnamon sugar mixture: For coating the donuts once fried, adding that iconic sweet-spiced crust.

Variations

I love tweaking recipes, and this Apple Cider Donuts Recipe is a great base to customize. Whether you want them dairy-free, add extra spice, or even make them baked instead of fried, there’s room to make it your own.

• Dairy-Free Version: Swap buttermilk with almond or oat milk plus a splash of vinegar; use coconut oil instead of butter. I tried this for a friend and the donuts were still soft and flavorful.
• Baked Donuts: For a lighter take, bake the dough in a donut pan at 350°F for about 12-15 minutes; then toss in cinnamon sugar. It’s a bit different but still delicious.
• Extra Spice Kick: Feel free to add a pinch of cloves or ginger to the spice mix for a bit more warmth—I did this once and my family went crazy for it.
• Apple Swap: Using a sweeter apple will make the donuts subtly sweeter; tart apples keep that bright contrast.

How to Make Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by pouring 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently until it’s reduced by half—around 10-15 minutes. You’re concentrating that fresh apple flavor here, and trust me, this step really takes the donuts to another level. Set it aside to cool completely before mixing it in.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together softened butter with both granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy. I usually use a hand mixer here to save my arm from overwork. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the cooled reduced cider, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is combined beautifully.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Grated Apple

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss in the peeled, cored, and grated apple to coat it lightly with flour—this keeps it from sinking to the bottom. Gently fold the dry ingredients and apple into the wet mixture just until combined. A tip here: don’t overmix! You want the batter tender and soft.

Step 4: Fry Those Donuts

Heat canola oil in a deep pan or fryer to about 360°F (you want it hot enough to cook quickly without absorbing too much oil). Using a large spoon or your hands, gently drop dollops of batter into the oil. I usually fry 2-3 at a time to keep the temperature steady. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown and puffed. Use a slotted spoon to remove the donuts and drain on paper towels.

Step 5: Toss in Cinnamon Sugar

While the donuts are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture (granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg). This warm coating adds a perfect sweet-spicy crunch that I absolutely adore. Let them cool slightly, then enjoy straight away.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple and trust the classic cinnamon sugar coating, but for a fun twist, dust a little powdered sugar or drizzle a thin glaze made from powdered sugar and cider over the top. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans on the glaze add nice texture and look festive too.

Side Dishes

Serve these donuts with warm coffee, chai tea, or even a spiced cider for an epic fall snack. I also love pairing them with a side of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, I arrange the donuts on a rustic wooden board, sprinkle some fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks around, and add mini jars of apple butter or caramel sauce for dipping. It’s a showstopper that gets everyone excited.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which sometimes I do, but rarely!), store the donuts airtight at room temperature for up to 2 days. I recommend reheating them briefly in the oven to bring back that fresh-out-the-fryer texture.

Freezing

These donuts freeze wonderfully. Just toss them in the cinnamon sugar, let cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you want a treat, thaw at room temperature, then warm in the oven a few minutes—you’ll swear they’re fresh.

Reheating

I find that reheating in a 325°F oven for 5-7 minutes revives the crisp exterior and soft interior perfectly. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that don’t-have-to-share-a-donut texture; it makes them too soft and chewy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donuts Recipe has become a seasonal staple in my kitchen. I love how it fills the house with the smell of fall and brings everyone to the table with those first bites. It’s approachable for any home cook, and the results feel truly special. If you’ve ever thought about making donuts at home but didn’t know where to start, this recipe is your new best friend. Grab some cider, warm up your oil, and enjoy the delicious journey!

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