Cozy Cider Donuts

Fall wouldn't be the same without Apple Cider Donuts, those tasty treats blending apple cider richness with comforting spices. They've got that perfect balance - soft and fluffy inside, crispy outside, and rolled in sweet cinnamon sugar that brings out all the flavors in the spiced dough. They're packed with real apple taste from boiled-down cider and warmed up with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Nothing beats munching on these treats during cool autumn days alongside some hot cider or your morning coffee.

INGREDIENTS

• Reduced apple cider: 1 cup
• All-purpose flour: 2 cups
• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: ½ cup sugar, 1 tbsp cinnamon
• Ground cloves: ¼ tsp
• Salt: ¼ tsp
• Unsalted butter: ¼ cup, softened
• Sugar: ½ cup
• Egg: 1 large
• Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
• Buttermilk: ½ cup
• Baking powder: 1 tsp
• Baking soda: ½ tsp
• Cinnamon: 1 tsp
• Nutmeg: ½ tsp

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 8:

While donuts are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mix until fully covered. They're best eaten warm.

Step 7:

Pour oil into a deep fryer or big pot and heat to 350°F (175°C). Cook donuts in small batches, about 1-2 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown. Take them out and let them drain on paper towels.

Step 6:

Sprinkle plenty of flour on your work surface and roll the dough out to about ½-inch thick. Cut donut shapes using a donut cutter or two round cutters of different sizes.

Step 5:

Cover your dough and stick it in the fridge for at least an hour, or until it's firm enough to work with.

Step 4:

Slowly mix the dry stuff into the wet mixture, stirring until you get a sticky dough.

Step 3:

In a big bowl, beat the soft butter and sugar together until it looks light and fluffy. Add the egg, then pour in the vanilla, buttermilk, and cooled reduced cider. Mix everything until it's smooth.

Step 2:

Take a medium bowl and mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt together.

Step 1:

Put apple cider in a small saucepan and let it simmer on medium heat until it shrinks down to ¼ cup, which takes around 10-15 minutes. Set it aside to cool down.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Leftover donuts will stay good in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Always eat these donuts warm if you can - that's when they're crispiest outside and softest inside.

Helpful Notes

• Make sure your oil reaches the right temperature before you start frying your donuts.
• Don't skip chilling the dough - it needs at least an hour in the fridge so you can handle it properly.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

• Chef's Tip: Try adding a tiny bit of cardamom to your dough for an extra kick of warm spice flavor.

FAQs

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

You can totally bake them at 350°F for 12-15 minutes, but honestly, frying gives you the best texture.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yep, you can freeze your fried donuts for up to 2 months. Just warm them up in the oven before you eat them.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

No buttermilk? No problem. Just mix ½ cup regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a swap.

Save

Summary

These spiced cider donuts combine a soft, airy texture with a crisp edge, infused with reduced apple cider and flavored with cinnamon and nutmeg. Lightly coated in sugar and cinnamon after frying, they're a sweet, aromatic treat that's ideal for autumn mornings or festive get-togethers. Let the dough rest for easier shaping, then fry to golden perfection. Serve them warm with your favorite hot drink for a cozy seasonal treat that feels like a hug in dessert form!