🍎 Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts: A Fall Favorite You Can Bake at Home
Engaging Introduction
Imagine crisp fall mornings, apple cider steaming in your mug and fresh apple cider donuts warm in your hands. Originating as a charming harvest tradition in the northeastern U.S., these delightful ring-shaped cake donuts pair perfectly with orchard freshness. Learn how to recreate that iconic flavor in your kitchen—right from your oven or fryer.
Why Apple Cider Donuts Captivate
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Loved for their tender crumb & warm spice blend of cinnamon and nutmeg
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A classic orchard staple described in the Wikipedia article on cider doughnuts, rooted in autumn traditions en.m.wikipedia.org+10en.wikipedia.org+10commons.wikimedia.org+10
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Celebrated across New England—as featured in the Food & Wine guide to the best cider doughnuts—best enjoyed amid fall foliage foodandwine.com
🍏 Ingredients
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1 cup apple cider, reduced 🌟
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2 cups all‑purpose flour 🥣
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⅔ cup granulated sugar 🍬
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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½ tsp ground nutmeg
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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2 Tbsp melted butter 🧈
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½ cup buttermilk or yogurt
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1 egg 🥚
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Oil for frying (if frying)
🛠️ Preparation Method
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Reduce the cider:
Simmer apple cider until it thickens by half—this intensifies flavor. -
Mix the dry ingredients:
Whisk flour, sugar, spices, baking powder, soda, and salt in a bowl. -
Combine wet ingredients:
Stir in cider, butter, buttermilk, and egg until just combined. -
Shape or scoop:
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For baked donuts: Pipe into a greased doughnut pan, bake at 350°F for 10–12 minutes.
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For fried: Scoop small rounds and fry at 350°F until golden (2–3 minutes per side).
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Coat while warm:
Toss in cinnamon-sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze.
📝 Tips and Tricks
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For maximum apple flavor, reduce the cider longer until syrupy.
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Avoid overmixing—blend just until no dry spots remain.
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Frying tip: Maintain 350°F oil—too cool = greasy, too hot = burnt.
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Use a thermometer to ensure accuracy in frying.
🌈 Variations & Substitutions
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Gluten‑free: Swap flour for 1:1 gluten-free blend.
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Dairy‑free: Use plant-based milk and coconut oil instead of butter.
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Cider-glazed: Combine reduced cider with powdered sugar for a bright glaze.
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Apple butter: Add 2 Tbsp to the batter for richer flavor.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve these donuts:
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Warm with a dusting of cinnamon sugar
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Accompanied by hot cider or coffee
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On a rustic platter with fall leaves for an inviting presentation 🍂
😊 Compelling Conclusion
These warm, spiced apple cider donuts are a fall kitchen essential! They bring cozy autumn vibes into your home with every bite. Try them this season, leave a comment with your favorite tweak, and share with friends who love easy, delicious baking. Happy baking & enjoy every bite! 🍁