How to Make Apple Cider Donuts: A Sweet and Spicy Treat
Are you looking for a delightful and festive treat to add to your fall menu? Look no further than apple cider donuts! These fluffy, yeasted donuts are infused with the warm, spiced flavors of apple cider and are perfect for any autumn occasion. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making apple cider donuts, from preparing the dough to the final glaze. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious homemade dessert!
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast (7g)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg, room temperature
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions
1. In a small bowl, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Stir to combine.
2. In a separate bowl, heat the apple cider until warm (not hot) to activate the yeast. Add the melted butter, egg, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract to the warm cider. Stir to combine.
3. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover with a damp cloth and let them rise for another 30 minutes.
6. In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). While the oil is heating, in a small bowl, mix together the powdered sugar and a pinch of cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar topping.
7. Once the dough has risen, carefully drop each ball into the hot oil, using tongs or a slotted spoon. Fry for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the donuts from the oil with tongs and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Immediately after removing from the oil, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture over the donuts while they are still warm. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy Your Apple Cider Donuts
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making apple cider donuts, it’s time to enjoy this delicious treat! Serve them warm with a cup of hot apple cider or your favorite coffee. These donuts are perfect for a cozy autumn gathering or as a sweet addition to your breakfast table. Happy baking!
