Classic Apple Cider Doughnuts are a delightful treat that perfectly capture the essence of fall. These soft, spiced doughnuts are infused with the rich flavor of apple cider, making them a popular choice for cozy gatherings, harvest festivals, or simply enjoying at home with a warm cup of cider. With a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior, these doughnuts are sure to become a family favorite. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to create these delicious doughnuts from scratch, ensuring you achieve that perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup buttermilk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Granulated sugar and cinnamon for coating
Instructions
Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
In a saucepan over medium heat, bring the apple cider to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until it reduces to about 1 cup, which should take around 15-20 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs. Beat until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the reduced apple cider, buttermilk, and melted butter until fully incorporated.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour, or until it is firm enough to handle.
Step 6: Shape the Doughnuts
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½ inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cutters to cut out doughnut shapes. Place the cut doughnuts on a floured baking sheet.
Step 7: Heat the Oil
In a large pot or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop in the doughnuts, a few at a time, and fry until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Step 8: Coat the Doughnuts
In a shallow bowl, mix granulated sugar with cinnamon. While the doughnuts are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought apple cider for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought apple cider works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it’s 100% apple cider for the best flavor.
How do I store leftover doughnuts?
Store any leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to a month.
Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the doughnuts at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes. They may not have the same crispy texture as fried doughnuts, but they will still be delicious!
What can I serve with apple cider doughnuts?
Apple cider doughnuts pair well with coffee, tea, or warm apple cider. They can also be served with a side of caramel sauce or whipped cream for a special treat.