Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts With Cinnamon Sugar Crust Recipe

If you have a soft spot for cozy autumn treats, you’re going to adore this recipe for Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts With Cinnamon Sugar Crust. These donuts are the perfect blend of tender cake-like texture soaked with the rich flavor of reduced apple cider and wrapped in a crunchy, sweet cinnamon sugar crust. They’re a heartwarming bite that tastes like fall in every mouthful and is guaranteed to become a staple in your seasonal baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to create these delicious donuts. Each one plays a key role, from the flour giving structure, to the apple cider infusing that unmistakable depth, and the cinnamon sugar crust wrapping it all up with a warm, inviting crunch.

• 2 cups flour: Provides the perfect balance to create a tender yet sturdy donut base.
• 1 cup apple cider: Reduced down to concentrate its natural sweetness and full-bodied apple flavor.
• ½ cup sugar: Sweetens the dough for a delicate, satisfying bite.
• ¼ cup butter: Adds richness and moisture to keep the donuts soft.
• 1 egg: Helps bind the ingredients and adds a light, fluffy texture.
• 1 tsp baking powder: Ensures the donuts rise just right, giving them airy puffiness.
• ½ tsp cinnamon: Infuses subtle spice throughout the dough, complementing the cider perfectly.
• ¼ tsp nutmeg: Adds an extra warm, cozy note to the spice blend.
• ¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Deepens the aroma and adds a lovely fragrant finish.

How to Make Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts With Cinnamon Sugar Crust

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by pouring your apple cider into a saucepan over medium heat. Let it gently simmer until it’s reduced by half. This concentrates the flavor and sweetness, which is essential to giving these donuts their signature rich apple punch. Don’t rush this step, as it lays the foundation for that fantastic depth of taste.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This mixture ensures the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dough, so every bite is consistent and flavorful.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the egg and then combine it with the melted butter, vanilla extract, and your beautifully reduced apple cider. This blend brings moisture and richness that make these donuts truly tender and soft.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir just until everything comes together—avoid overmixing to keep your donuts light and airy. The dough will be slightly sticky but workable.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Pop the bowl into the fridge for about 30 minutes. Chilling firms up the dough, making it easier to roll out and cut into those classic donut shapes.

Step 6: Roll and Cut Into Donut Shapes

Lightly flour your surface and roll out the dough to roughly ½ inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to cut out the donuts and holes. This is where your creativity can shine—don’t worry if the shapes aren’t perfect. Rustic charm tastes just as good.

Step 7: Fry the Donuts

Heat oil in a deep pan to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the donuts in batches, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and puffed up. Frying at the right temperature is key to getting that crispy exterior without absorbing too much oil.

Step 8: Toss in Cinnamon Sugar

While still warm, toss the donuts in a generous coating of cinnamon sugar to create that irresistible crust. This final step adds crunch and just the right kiss of sweetness and spice, completing these delightful Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts With Cinnamon Sugar Crust.

How to Serve Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts With Cinnamon Sugar Crust

Garnishes

A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the flavor and presentation. You can even add a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted nuts for an extra layer of texture and richness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon sugar crust.

Side Dishes

Serve these donuts alongside a warm cup of cinnamon-spiced tea, chai latte, or even a fresh cup of coffee. Their sweet, spicy profile also makes them excellent companions for creamy dips like mascarpone or vanilla yogurt.

Creative Ways to Present

Imagine stacking these donuts in a rustic basket lined with a cozy linen napkin for a welcoming seasonal brunch spread. Or arrange them on a festive platter with fall-themed decorations—think small pumpkins, autumn leaves, and candles—to make your table pop with warmth and charm. You can even skewer mini donuts as a fun party treat!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and who doesn’t love having extra), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping them sealed helps maintain the delicate cinnamon sugar crust crisp and the inside tender.

Freezing

These donuts freeze wonderfully. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a treat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them gently in an oven.

Reheating

To refresh your Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts With Cinnamon Sugar Crust, reheat gently in a 300°F oven for about 5–7 minutes. This revives the crust’s crunch while keeping the interior soft and moist, almost as if fresh-made.

FAQs

Can I bake these donuts instead of frying?

Absolutely! Baking is a great alternative if you prefer a lighter version. Bake at 350°F for about 12-15 minutes or until golden, and then toss them in cinnamon sugar while warm for that classic crust.

What kind of apple cider works best?

Use a naturally sweet, unfiltered apple cider for the best flavor. Avoid overly sweetened or artificially flavored varieties, as the natural brightness of true apple cider is what makes these donuts shine.

Can I substitute spices?

If nutmeg isn’t your favorite, feel free to add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to keep that warm autumn aroma. Just be careful to use sparingly, so the donut’s delicate balance remains intact.

How long can the dough be refrigerated before frying?

While 30 minutes is ideal for chilling and shaping, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out to make it easier to work with.

Are these donuts gluten-free?

This recipe calls for all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free as written. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, though texture may vary slightly.

Final Thoughts

There’s something deeply comforting about the aroma of these Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts With Cinnamon Sugar Crust wafting from the kitchen. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of spice, sweetness, and tender cake magic that’s simply unforgettable. If you haven’t tried making them yet, trust me—you’re in for a seriously delicious treat that brings all the heartwarming flavors of fall right to your table.

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