Apple Cider Donut Recipe

All-purpose flour: The base of the donut, providing structure and texture.

Baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the donuts rise and become fluffy.

Baking soda: Another leavening agent that works with the baking powder to give the donuts a light texture.

Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy flavor that complements the apple cider.

Ground nutmeg: Enhances the spice profile with a slightly sweet, nutty flavor.

Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Apple cider: Reduced to a syrup to concentrate its flavor, giving the donuts a rich apple taste.

Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the donuts.

Unsalted butter: Provides moisture and richness to the batter.

Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add structure.

Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle, sweet aroma and enhances the overall flavor.

To enhance the flavor of your apple cider donuts, make sure to reduce the apple cider properly. Start with 1 cup of apple cider and simmer it over medium heat until it reduces to ¼ cup. This concentrates the flavors, giving your donuts a more intense apple taste. Be patient and keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour adds a slightly nutty flavor and more fiber, though it may make the donuts denser.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar for each teaspoon of baking powder.

• baking soda - Substitute with baking powder: Use 3 teaspoon of baking powder for each teaspoon of baking soda, but reduce the acidic ingredients in the recipe.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.

• ground nutmeg - Substitute with allspice: Allspice has a similar warm, spicy flavor and can be used in equal amounts.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used in the same amount and may add a slightly different mineral flavor.

• apple cider - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can be reduced in the same way to concentrate the flavor, though it may be slightly sweeter.

• granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and adds a slight caramel flavor.

• unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used in the same amount and adds a subtle coconut flavor.

• large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoon water per egg and let sit to thicken; this is a good vegan alternative.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor, though it is stronger, so use half the amount.

• To keep your apple cider donuts fresh and delightful, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. This will maintain their moist texture for up to two days.

• For longer storage, place the donuts in an airtight container and refrigerate them. This method will keep them fresh for up to a week. Before serving, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for that fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

• If you want to savor these donuts over a more extended period, freezing is your best bet. First, let the donuts cool completely on a wire rack. This step is crucial to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy.

• Once cooled, arrange the donuts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour, or until the donuts are firm to the touch.

• After the initial freeze, transfer the donuts to a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to label it with the date. These donuts can be frozen for up to three months.

• When you're ready to enjoy your frozen apple cider donuts, thaw them at room temperature for about an hour. For a warm treat, you can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.

• To maintain their delightful texture, avoid storing the donuts in the refrigerator for more than a week or in the freezer for more than three months. This ensures that each bite is as delicious as the day they were baked.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the apple cider donuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out. Heat for about 5-10 minutes or until they are warm and slightly crispy on the outside.

• Microwave Method: Place a donut on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Check the warmth and add a few more seconds if needed. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the donut rubbery.

• Toaster Oven Method: Set your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts directly on the rack or on a small baking tray. Heat for about 5 minutes or until they are warm and slightly crispy.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the donuts in the basket in a single layer. Heat for 3-4 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are warming evenly.

• Stovetop Method: If you prefer a slightly crispy exterior, you can use a stovetop. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil. Place the donuts in the skillet and heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side, until they are warm and slightly crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the donuts at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Donut pan: A specialized pan with cavities shaped like donuts to hold the batter and give the donuts their shape.

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine and mix the dry ingredients together.

• Another mixing bowl: Used to mix the wet ingredients together.

• Whisk: Utilized to whisk together the dry ingredients ensuring they are well combined.

• Spatula: Handy for folding the wet and dry ingredients together until just mixed.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring out the flour, apple cider, and sugar.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out smaller quantities of ingredients like baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract.

• Wire rack: Used to cool the donuts completely after they have been baked.

• Toothpick: Used to check if the donuts are fully baked by inserting it into the donut and seeing if it comes out clean.

• Cooling rack: Another term for a wire rack, used for cooling the donuts.

• Non-stick spray: Used to grease the donut pan to ensure the donuts do not stick.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting. This will streamline the process and reduce prep time.

Use a mixer: Use an electric mixer to quickly combine wet and dry ingredients for a smoother batter.

Reduce cider in advance: Reduce the apple cider ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This will save you time on the day of baking.

Fill piping bag: Use a piping bag to fill the donut pan cavities quickly and evenly.

Double the batch: Make a double batch and freeze the extra donuts for a quick treat later.