I just love making caramel apple cider donut holes—they’re a cozy fall treat! With a rich blend of apple cider, sweet caramel, and warm spices, these bite-sized goodies are perfect for chilly days. It only takes about 15 minutes to prep and 12 minutes to bake 24 of them, which makes them ideal for gatherings. I remember the first time I made them; the smell filled my kitchen! Just mix your wet and dry ingredients, pop them in the oven, and you’re all set. Trust me, you’ll want to know all the tasty serving ideas, too!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
When you bite into these Caramel Apple Cider Donut Holes, you’ll immediately appreciate the perfect balance of flavors.
They’re cozy treats that capture the essence of the season.
Here’s what you’ll love:
- Rich apple cider adds warmth.
- Caramel drizzle creates a sweet finish.
- Each donut hole is soft and fluffy.
These seasonal flavors make every bite a little celebration of fall!
Recipe
Indulge in the warm and comforting flavors of autumn with our delicious Caramel Apple Cider Donut Holes. Perfect for snacking on chilly days or treating friends and family, these delightful treats are easy to make and sure to impress!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
Instructions:
- In a saucepan, reduce the apple cider over medium heat until it becomes thick and syrupy, about 15-20 minutes. Allow to cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a mini muffin pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the melted butter, reduced apple cider, sugar, egg, and vanilla until smooth.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fill each muffin cup about 2/3 full with batter and bake for 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool slightly before drizzling with caramel sauce.
Notes:
- For an extra touch, you can roll the warm donut holes in cinnamon sugar after baking for added sweetness and flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days.
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Servings: Approximately 24 donut holes
- Calories: 90 calories per donut hole
- Cuisine: American
Enjoy these Caramel Apple Cider Donut Holes as a perfect seasonal snack that captures the essence of fall in every bite!
Equipment
To whip up these delicious Caramel Apple Cider Donut Holes, you’ll need some essential equipment to make the process smooth and efficient.
Here are the must-haves:
- Donut molds – These help shape your treats perfectly.
- Mixing bowls – You’ll need a couple for your ingredients.
- Measuring spoons – For those cider spices, accuracy is key!
Let’s get cooking and enjoy the freedom of baking!
What to Serve With This Recipe
When I enjoy my caramel apple cider donut holes, I love to think about what drinks or dips would make them even better. A warm cup of spiced cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can really elevate this tasty treat!
Plus, if you’re hosting a get-together, consider arranging these donut holes on a pretty platter—trust me, they’ll steal the show!
Perfect Beverage Pairings
Finding the right drink to complement your caramel apple cider donut holes can elevate your treat into an unforgettable experience.
I recommend trying different cider varieties, like a crisp apple cider or a spiced variant. The flavor profiles in these drinks will enhance the sweetness of the donuts, making each bite and sip feel like a cozy fall celebration.
Enjoy!
Ideal Dipping Sauces
Enjoying your caramel apple cider donut holes is even better with the right dipping sauces.
I love experimenting with different dipping sauce varieties, like warm caramel, creamy vanilla, or sweet cinnamon icing. Each flavor combination elevates those delightful bites!
Don’t be shy—mix and match! Finding your favorite will make every donut hole taste even more amazing and exciting.
Festive Serving Suggestions
Creating a festive spread complements my caramel apple cider donut holes beautifully.
For autumn gatherings, I love to pair them with warm spiced cider and a cheese platter. Don’t forget some cute mini pumpkins for decoration!
These holiday treats shine even brighter when served with friends, laughter, and cozy blankets. It’s all about enjoying freedom and making sweet memories together.
Enjoy it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Store-Bought Caramel Sauce Instead of Homemade?
Did you know 70% of people prefer homemade treats? I get it—store-bought caramel sauce options are convenient, but homemade adds a personal touch. Still, using store-bought caramel sauce isn’t a bad alternative if you’re short on time!
How Long Do These Donut Holes Last Once Made?
Once I make these donut holes, they usually stay fresh for about three days at room temperature. For longer storage, I recommend refrigeration. Look for dryness or off smells as freshness indicators. Enjoy while they last!
Can I Freeze Caramel Apple Cider Donut Holes?
Yes, I can freeze donut holes! I find freezing tips helpful: I wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then store them in an airtight container. This way, they last longer with great taste!
Are These Donut Holes Gluten-Free?
I don’t think these donut holes are gluten-free. If you’re exploring gluten alternatives, always check ingredients carefully. Cross contamination can happen in kitchens, so it’s wise to ask about processing methods for your safety.
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider?
If you’re looking for cider alternatives, you can try using white grape juice or even cranberry juice. Both provide unique flavor variations while keeping your recipes exciting and fresh—freedom in your cooking is key!
