By Toni Oliver - 03/13/2025
Apple cider donuts are a classic fall treat, bursting with warm spices and the sweet tang of apple cider. These donuts are fried to golden perfection and coated in cinnamon sugar, making them a delightful snack for any time of the day.
Reduce the apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens to about 1/4 cup. Let it cool. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In another bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, buttermilk, egg, vanilla, and melted butter. Add the cooled apple cider and stir well.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness and cut out donuts.
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches for about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and drain on a paper towel.
While still warm, coat the donuts in cinnamon sugar. Serve fresh and enjoy!
The key to achieving the best apple cider donuts is reducing the apple cider to concentrate its flavor. This step enhances the natural sweetness and depth, making the donuts more aromatic and flavorful. Using fresh cider instead of apple juice ensures a more intense apple taste. Combining warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg elevates the overall profile, giving them a cozy, autumn-inspired feel.
While baked donuts are a healthier alternative, frying is what gives traditional apple cider donuts their iconic crispy exterior and soft, fluffy inside. The right frying temperature—around 350°F—prevents excess oil absorption while ensuring a golden, crisp crust. Using fresh oil and maintaining a consistent heat level are crucial for evenly cooked donuts that don’t turn out greasy.
These donuts are best enjoyed warm, fresh out of the fryer, coated generously in cinnamon sugar. Pairing them with a hot cup of apple cider or coffee enhances the experience. For a twist, try serving them with vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of hot and cold, or drizzle them with caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Yes! While frying gives them a crispy exterior, you can bake them at 350°F for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown. They will have a slightly different texture but will still be delicious, especially if coated with cinnamon sugar immediately after baking.
Apple cider donuts are best eaten fresh, but you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need longer storage, freeze them in a sealed bag and reheat in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes.
Apple cider has a deeper, richer flavor compared to apple juice. While you can use apple juice in a pinch, reducing it to concentrate the flavor is recommended to achieve the same level of taste intensity in your donuts.
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are best for frying. They have a high smoke point and won’t overpower the donut's flavor. Make sure the oil stays at 350°F for optimal results and minimal oil absorption.
Yes! You can prepare the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before rolling and frying. This can help develop flavors and make the process easier when you're ready to fry.
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