Apple cider donuts
Craving a cozy, fall-inspired treat? I absolutely love making apple cider donuts at home—they’re soft, fluffy, and infused with the warm flavors of apple cider and cinnamon. This recipe is my go-to whenever I want that bakery-style donut without leaving the kitchen. The best part
Why This Recipe Works
Craving a cozy, fall-inspired treat? I absolutely love making apple cider donuts at home—they’re soft, fluffy, and infused with the warm flavors of apple cider and cinnamon. This recipe is my go-to whenever I want that bakery-style donut without leaving the kitchen. The best part? They’re lightly sweet, spiced just right, and coated in a buttery cinnamon-sugar topping that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for breakfast, dessert, or just a sweet snack, these donuts are guaranteed to impress. I’ve carefully measured and tested every ingredient to ensure the perfect texture—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
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1
Making the dough for apple cider donuts is where the magic starts. I always follow a few key steps to get the ideal soft, flavorful texture.
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2
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for 1-2 minutes just to bring it together.
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3
Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and the dough to relax, making it easier to shape later.
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4
Shaping the dough is where the donuts start to take their classic form. I love that this step is hands-on and satisfying.
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5
Roll Out the Dough:Lightly flour your work surface and roll the dough to about 1/2-inch thickness.
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Cut the Donuts:Use a donut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one larger for the donut, one smaller for the hole) to cut out your shapes. If you’re making donut holes, just roll small portions into balls.
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Arrange for Cooking:Place the shaped donuts on a floured baking sheet and let them rest for 5-10 minutes while you heat your oil or oven.
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Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
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Carefully place 2-3 donuts in the hot oil at a time. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
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Use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a cooling rack lined with paper towels. Let excess oil drip off.
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Place donuts in a lightly greased donut pan and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
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Allow them to cool slightly before coating.
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To keep your apple cider donuts fresh and soft:
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Allow donuts to cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes. Allow donuts to cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 1 month. To enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Recommended Kitchen Equipment
Mixing Bowls
– Large bowls for combining wet and dry ingredients separately before mixing.
Check Price on AmazonWhisk & Wooden Spoon
– Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly without overworking the dough.
Check Price on AmazonMeasuring Cups & Spoons
– Accurate measurements are key to soft, tender donuts.
Check Price on AmazonDonut Pan or Frying Setup
– I usually make baked donuts in a pan for convenience, but a fryer works beautifully for classic fried donuts.
Check Price on AmazonCooling Rack
– Ensures the donuts stay crisp while cooling and prevents sogginess.
Check Price on AmazonPiping Bag (Optional)
– Handy if you’re shaping doughnuts for a more uniform look before baking or frying.
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