Spiced Apple Cider Donuts – Easy Fall Recipe

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Are you ready to embrace the cozy flavors of fall? If you’ve ever wondered how to capture the essence of autumn in a delicious treat, look no further! Our Spiced Apple Cider Donuts are the perfect way to celebrate the season. These donuts are moist, flavorful, and infused with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, making them an irresistible addition to your fall baking repertoire. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will fill your kitchen with the delightful aroma of spiced apple cider!

Ingredients List

To make these delightful Spiced Apple Cider Donuts, gather the following ingredients:

  • For the Donuts:
    • 1 cup apple cider
    • 2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Coating:
    • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for dipping)
    • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Substitutions:

  • Flour: Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.
  • Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar or a low-calorie sweetener.
  • Butter: Replace with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Cider Reduction

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring 1 cup of apple cider to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer until it reduces to about 1/2 cup, approximately 10-15 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

  1. In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Prepare the Donut Pan

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when touched and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  2. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Coat the Donuts

  1. While the donuts are cooling, melt the butter for the coating in a small bowl.
  2. In another bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
  3. Dip each warm donut in the melted butter, then coat with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content per donut (makes about 12 donuts):

  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 7g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Cholesterol: 35mg
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 27g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 2g

Nutritional Insights:

  • Contains antioxidants from apple cider and spices.
  • Provides a moderate amount of energy, perfect for a morning treat or snack.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

For a lighter version of these donuts, consider these modifications:

  • Reduce Sugar: Cut the sugar by 25% or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
  • Add Applesauce: Replace some butter with unsweetened applesauce for moisture without added fat.
  • Bake Instead of Fry: This recipe is already baked, but ensure you use minimal butter for a healthier coating.

Serving Suggestions

These Spiced Apple Cider Donuts are perfect for various occasions:

  • Breakfast Treat: Serve with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast.
  • Dessert: Pair with vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert option.
  • Garnish: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider for an extra touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to dense donuts. Mix just until combined.
  2. Not Reducing the Cider: Make sure to reduce the apple cider for concentrated flavor.
  3. Underbaking: Ensure donuts are fully cooked by checking with a toothpick.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your donuts fresh and delicious:

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep them in the fridge for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual donuts in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

Conclusion

In summary, these Spiced Apple Cider Donuts are an easy and delightful way to celebrate fall. With their warm spices and sweet apple flavor, they are sure to become a favorite in your household. Try this recipe today and share your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

A: Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Q2: How can I make these donuts dairy-free?

A: Use coconut oil instead of butter and a non-dairy milk alternative.

Q3: Can I add nuts to the batter?

A: Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch.

Spiced Apple Cider Donuts

Spiced Apple Cider Donuts
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients

  • For the Donuts:
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For the Coating:
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted (for dipping)
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

    Step 1: Prepare the Apple Cider Reduction

  1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, bring 1 cup of apple cider to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and simmer until it reduces to about 1/2 cup, approximately 10-15 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

  1. In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

  1. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 5: Prepare the Donut Pan

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with cooking spray or butter.
  2. Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.

Step 6: Bake the Donuts

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when touched and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  2. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 7: Coat the Donuts

  1. While the donuts are cooling, melt the butter for the coating in a small bowl.
  2. In another bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
  3. Dip each warm donut in the melted butter, then coat with the cinnamon sugar mixture.
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