I absolutely love making spiced apple cider donuts with caramel glaze—they’re like a warm hug in food form! With just a cup of apple cider and some cozy spices, you get fluffy, flavorful donuts that’ll make your kitchen smell amazing. After baking them, I drizzle on a rich caramel glaze that adds a sweet touch. They’re perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. I always enjoy them fresh from the oven, dusted lightly with powdered sugar. Plus, they’re great for sharing with friends and family at gatherings. Trust me, you’ll want to whip these up soon!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
When I take a bite of these spiced apple cider donuts, the warm flavors burst through, wrapping me in comfort like a cozy sweater on a chilly day.
You’ll love how these donuts not only celebrate seasonal flavors, but also offer some health benefits too!
- They pack in fiber from apples
- The spices provide antioxidants
- They’re perfect for gatherings!
Recipe
Get ready to indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of autumn with our Spiced Apple Cider Donuts recipe! These delightful treats combine the sweetness of apple cider with a blend of aromatic spices, perfect for enjoying with a warm beverage on a crisp fall day.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, reduce the apple cider over medium heat until it’s thickened to about 1/2 cup, approximately 10-15 minutes.
Let it cool.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, cooled apple cider, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 3/4 full.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Allow donuts to cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Dust warm donuts with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes:
For an extra touch, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a bit of milk.
Time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 12 minutes
- Total time: 27 minutes
- Serving: Makes about 12 donuts
- Calories: Approximately 180 calories per donut
- Cuisine: American
Enjoy the delightful taste of fall with these Spiced Apple Cider Donuts — perfect for breakfast, a snack, or a cozy dessert!
Equipment
To whip up a batch of Spiced Apple Cider Donuts, you’ll need a few essential pieces of equipment.
Trust me, gathering your tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Mixing bowls for your ingredients
- A donut pan to shape those delicious treats
- A whisk to mix everything together nicely
Let’s get cooking and enjoy the journey!
What to Serve With This Recipe
When you’re whipping up these spiced apple cider donuts, you’ll want to think about what to pair with them. A warm cup of apple cider or a cozy hot chocolate can really make the flavors pop!
Plus, consider adding some fun fall-inspired sides or even a sweet dessert to make the whole experience even more delightful.
Perfect Beverage Pairings
What’s the perfect way to enhance the warm, spiced goodness of apple cider donuts?
I love pairing them with different cider varieties—especially a sweet, sparkling cider!
For a twist, try hot apple cider with a cinnamon stick.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of whiskey to warm things up!
And don’t forget, donut toppings like caramel or nuts really bring it all together.
Fall-Inspired Side Dishes
Complementing the warm, spiced flavor of apple cider donuts with the right side dishes can elevate your fall gatherings.
Think roasted butternut squash with maple, or a simple kale salad dressed in apple cider vinaigrette.
These autumn flavors and seasonal ingredients truly brighten the table, making everything feel cozy and inviting.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Sweet Dessert Combinations
To truly delight your guests, pairing spiced apple cider donuts with the right sweet dessert combinations can create an unforgettable experience.
Think about serving them with pumpkin spice ice cream or a warm caramel sauce.
These seasonal flavors and dessert trends make for a festive spread!
Trust me, you’ll feel the joy in every bite as everyone gathers around for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can These Donuts Be Made Gluten-Free?
I’ve used gluten-free flours like almond or coconut in my baking. With a few smart baking substitutions, you can enjoy delicious gluten-free variations without sacrificing flavor. It’s all about creativity and freedom in the kitchen!
How Should I Store Leftover Donuts?
To store leftover donuts, I use airtight storage containers. This keeps them fresh longer. I’ve found that avoiding direct sunlight and moisture helps maintain their taste and texture. Donut freshness tips make all the difference!
Can I Use Store-Bought Caramel Sauce?
Store-bought caramel sauce works great, but I’d recommend exploring caramel sauce alternatives too. If you try homemade caramel tips, you might discover a new favorite. It’s all about freedom to experiment with flavors!
How Do I Know When the Donuts Are Cooked?
I check the donuts’ texture after the recommended baking time. If they’re golden-brown and spring back when lightly pressed, they’re done. Trusting your instincts will lead to delightful, perfectly cooked treats every time!
Can I Freeze the Donuts for Later?
Absolutely, I can freeze the donuts! For the best donut texture later, I wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Freezing tips? Just remember to let them thaw before enjoying!