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Apple Cider Donuts: Homemade Recipe for Golden Perfection

Apple Cider Donuts

Elena Marlowe
These cake-like apple cider donuts are an autumn essential, featuring a tender, spiced crumb and an intense apple flavor achieved by reducing fresh cider. Finished with a classic crunchy cinnamon sugar coating, these fried treats offer a deep, aromatic warmth with notes of nutmeg and cloves, perfect for a cozy morning or dessert.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh apple cider (reduced to 3/4 cup)
  • 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp spices (mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar and 2 tbsp cinnamon for coating
  • Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions
 

  • Simmer 2 cups of apple cider in a saucepan over low heat for 30 minutes until reduced to 3/4 cup, then cool completely.
  • Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices together in a medium bowl.
  • In a stand mixer, cream the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy.
  • Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the reduced cider, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
  • Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
  • Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to make it easier to handle.
  • Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/2 inch thickness and cut into donut shapes using a cutter.
  • Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C).
  • Fry donuts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  • Drain briefly on a wire rack and toss in a cinnamon-sugar mixture while still warm.

Notes

Ensure the apple cider is fully cooled before adding to the batter to avoid scrambling the eggs. Keep the oil temperature consistent for the best golden-brown result. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 48gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 210mgFiber: 1gSugar: 22g
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