Spiced Apple Cider Donuts (classic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Spiced Apple Cider Donuts
As the leaves turn and the air becomes crisp, there's nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked spiced apple cider donuts wafting through the kitchen. These delightful treats are a celebration of autumn, combining the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with the sweet, tangy essence of apple cider. Each bite is a soft, fluffy experience, with a slight crunch from the cinnamon-sugar coating that makes them utterly irresistible.
Historically, donuts have been a beloved treat in America since the 19th century, with variations popping up in every region. The spiced apple cider donut, in particular, has its roots in New England, where apple orchards abound and cider is a staple of the fall harvest. These donuts not only capture the essence of the season but also evoke memories of family gatherings, hayrides, and the simple joy of enjoying a warm treat with loved ones.
Making these donuts at home is easier than you might think, and the process is as enjoyable as the final product. The key is to use fresh apple cider, which adds a depth of flavor that store-bought varieties simply can't match. As you mix the ingredients, the spices will dance in the air, making it hard to resist sneaking a taste of the batter. And if you happen to drop a donut in the fryer, don’t worry—just think of it as a “donut hole” in the making!
Once you’ve mastered the art of frying, you’ll find that these donuts are perfect for sharing. Whether you serve them at a fall festival, a cozy brunch, or simply with a cup of coffee on a chilly morning, they are sure to bring smiles all around. So roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and let’s get frying!
Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup apple cider
- 0.5 cups unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 0.5 cups cinnamon sugar
Instructions
- Begin by gathering your equipment: a large mixing bowl, a whisk, a donut pan, and a deep fryer or heavy pot for frying. Preheat your fryer or pot with oil to 375°F (190°C), ensuring you have enough oil to submerge the donuts.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2.5 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 0.5 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 0.5 teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture will form the base of your donuts.
- In a separate bowl, beat 2 large eggs until frothy. Then, add 1 cup of apple cider, 0.5 cups of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until well combined, ensuring the butter has cooled slightly to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. The batter should be thick but pourable.
- Grease your donut pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each cavity of the donut pan about halfway with the batter. This allows room for the donuts to rise.
- Bake the donuts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The donuts should spring back when lightly pressed.
- While the donuts are baking, prepare your cinnamon sugar by mixing 0.5 cups of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This will give your donuts a sweet, spiced coating.
- Once baked, allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling step is crucial to prevent sogginess.
- If frying, carefully drop the batter into the hot oil using a donut cutter or by piping it directly into the oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the donuts from the oil and let them drain on paper towels for a moment. While they are still warm, roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated.
- Serve the donuts warm for the best flavor and texture. They can be enjoyed plain or with a drizzle of icing for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them and reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 210
- Carbs g: 30
- Protein g: 2
- Fat g: 10
- Sugar g: 8
