Name: Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar: A Must-Try Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup apple cider; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup granulated sugar (for coating); 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (for coating)

Introduction to Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar wafting through the kitchen. These delightful treats are not just a recipe; they’re a hug in dessert form! Perfect for busy moms and professionals, they come together quickly, making them an ideal solution for a sweet snack or a cozy breakfast. Imagine surprising your loved ones with these soft, fluffy doughnuts that taste like fall on a plate. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar

These Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar are a game-changer for your busy life. They’re incredibly easy to whip up, taking just 27 minutes from start to finish. The taste? Oh, it’s like autumn wrapped in a sweet, fluffy embrace! Plus, they’re baked, not fried, so you can indulge without the guilt. Whether for breakfast or a snack, these doughnuts are sure to bring smiles to your family’s faces!

Ingredients for Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the base of your doughnuts, giving them structure and a soft texture.
Apple cider: The star of the show! It adds a rich, fruity flavor that screams fall.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the doughnuts and helps create that lovely golden crust.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, making your doughnuts extra delicious.
Unsalted butter: For richness and flavor. Melted butter makes the doughnuts tender and moist.
Large eggs: They bind everything together and help the doughnuts rise beautifully.
Baking powder: This leavening agent gives your doughnuts that perfect lift.
Baking soda: Works with the acidity of the apple cider to create a fluffy texture.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the fall flavor profile.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds a cozy, aromatic touch that complements the cinnamon.
Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Granulated sugar (for coating): This is what gives your doughnuts that irresistible sweet crunch.
Ground cinnamon (for coating): A sprinkle of this on top makes everything taste even better!

For those looking to switch things up, consider using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or adding a splash of vanilla extract for an extra layer of sweetness. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the delightful process of making these Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, fluffy doughnuts in no time!

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfect bake. While the oven warms up, grease your doughnut pan with a little butter or cooking spray. This will help your doughnuts slide out easily once they’re baked.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This step is essential for evenly distributing the flavors throughout your doughnuts. The aroma of the spices will already start to fill your kitchen, making it feel like fall!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix the apple cider, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, and eggs until everything is well combined. This mixture creates a flavorful base that will make your doughnuts moist and delicious. Don’t be shy—give it a good stir!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want tender doughnuts, not tough ones. A few lumps are perfectly fine!

Step 5: Fill the Pan

Using a spoon or a piping bag, fill each doughnut cavity about 2/3 full with the batter. This allows enough room for the doughnuts to rise beautifully while baking. If you overfill, you might end up with doughnut tops that spill over!

Step 6: Bake

Pop the filled pan into your preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them! You’ll know they’re done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This is the magic moment when your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 7: Cool and Coat

Once baked, let the doughnuts cool in the pan for a few minutes. Then, gently remove them and place them on a wire rack. While they’re still warm, coat each doughnut in the cinnamon sugar mixture. This step is where the real magic happens—those warm doughnuts will soak up that sweet, spicy goodness!

Tips for Success

Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor—it’s worth it!
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay for tender doughnuts.
Let the doughnuts cool slightly before coating to prevent the sugar from melting.
Experiment with spices; a dash of allspice or ginger can add a unique twist.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

Doughnut pan: Essential for shaping your doughnuts. If you don’t have one, a muffin tin works in a pinch!
Mixing bowls: Use at least two—one for dry ingredients and one for wet.
Whisk: Perfect for blending ingredients smoothly. A fork can work too!
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for baking success.
Cooling rack: Helps doughnuts cool evenly. A plate can substitute if needed.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free option.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and use plant-based butter.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
Apple Cinnamon Swirl: Fold in small chunks of fresh apples into the batter for added texture and flavor.
Maple Glaze: Instead of cinnamon sugar, drizzle a maple glaze over the cooled doughnuts for a sweet twist.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with coffee: A warm cup of coffee or spiced chai complements the sweetness perfectly.
Serve with fresh fruit: Slices of crisp apples or pears add a refreshing contrast.
Presentation: Arrange doughnuts on a rustic wooden platter for a charming fall display.
Drizzle with caramel: A light drizzle of caramel sauce elevates the indulgence.
Enjoy with ice cream: Serve warm doughnuts with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat!

FAQs about Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly for these doughnuts. Just make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor. If you can find local cider, even better!

How do I store leftover doughnuts?

To keep your Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’re best enjoyed the same day, but they can last for a couple of days.

Can I freeze these doughnuts?

Yes, you can freeze them! Just let the doughnuts cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them at room temperature and coat them in cinnamon sugar again.

What can I substitute for eggs in this recipe?

If you’re looking for an egg substitute, try using flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. It works wonders in keeping the doughnuts moist!

Can I make these doughnuts ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter the night before and store it in the fridge. Just give it a good stir before filling the doughnut pan and baking. This way, you can enjoy fresh doughnuts in the morning with minimal effort!

Final Thoughts

Making Apple Cider Doughnuts with Cinnamon Sugar is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of pulling warm, fluffy doughnuts from the oven fills your home with a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Each bite is a reminder of cozy fall days, laughter, and family gatherings. Whether you’re sharing them with loved ones or savoring them solo with a cup of coffee, these doughnuts bring a little magic to your day. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the mess, and enjoy the sweet rewards of your culinary adventure. You deserve it!