Apple Cider Donut Holes: The Ultimate Fall Treat Recipe

Apple Cider Donut Holes: Prepare to be transported to an autumn wonderland with these delightful, bite-sized treats! Imagine the crisp air, the vibrant colors of falling leaves, and the comforting aroma of warm spices filling your kitchen. These aren’t just any donut holes; they’re a celebration of fall flavors, perfectly captured in a single, delicious bite.

The tradition of apple cider donuts, from which these little gems are derived, has deep roots in American fall festivals and apple orchards. For generations, families have enjoyed these treats as a symbol of the harvest season. The combination of sweet apples and warm spices evokes a sense of nostalgia and cozy comfort.

What makes apple cider donut holes so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The slightly crisp exterior gives way to a soft, cakey interior, infused with the rich flavor of apple cider and a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. They’re incredibly easy to make, perfect for a quick weekend treat or a festive gathering. People love them because they’re poppable, shareable, and utterly addictive! Plus, who can resist the charm of a miniature donut, especially one that tastes like autumn in every bite?

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Donut Holes:
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple cider, reduced to 1/4 cup (see instructions below)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• For the Apple Cider Glaze:
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup apple cider, reduced to 1/4 cup (see instructions below)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• Optional Toppings:
• Granulated sugar
• Cinnamon sugar
• Chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts)
• Sprinkles

Reducing the Apple Cider:

This step is crucial for intensifying the apple flavor in both the donut holes and the glaze. Don’t skip it!

1. Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan.
2. Bring the cider to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Continue simmering, uncovered, until the cider has reduced to 1/4 cup. This will take approximately 15-20 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely before using in the recipe.

Making the Donut Holes:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Make sure everything is evenly distributed. This ensures a consistent flavor and rise.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. The mixture should be pale and airy.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the reduced apple cider and buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. So, add about 1/3 of the dry ingredients, then 1/2 of the apple cider/buttermilk mixture, then another 1/3 of the dry ingredients, the remaining apple cider/buttermilk mixture, and finally the last 1/3 of the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough donut holes. A few streaks of flour are okay.
5. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour, or preferably 2 hours. This chilling time is essential for making the dough easier to handle and preventing the donut holes from spreading too much during frying. The cold dough will also help create a slightly crispier exterior.

Frying the Donut Holes:

1. Prepare for Frying: Pour about 3 inches of vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Heat the oil over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature. Maintaining the correct oil temperature is crucial for achieving perfectly cooked donut holes. If the oil is too hot, the donut holes will brown too quickly on the outside and remain raw on the inside. If the oil is not hot enough, the donut holes will absorb too much oil and become greasy.
2. Shape the Donut Holes: While the oil is heating, lightly flour a clean surface. Roll the chilled dough out to about 1/2-inch thickness. Use a small cookie cutter (about 1-inch diameter) or a sharp knife to cut out the donut holes. You can also use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out small balls of dough.
3. Fry the Donut Holes: Carefully drop a few donut holes into the hot oil at a time, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy donut holes.
4. Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry the donut holes for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon or spider to turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Drain on Paper Towels: Remove the donut holes from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Making the Apple Cider Glaze:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, reduced apple cider, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. If you’re using cinnamon, add it now.
2. Adjust Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, add a little more apple cider, one teaspoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If the glaze is too thin, add a little more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time. The glaze should be thick enough to coat the donut holes but thin enough to drip slightly.

Glazing and Topping the Donut Holes:

1. Glaze the Donut Holes: While the donut holes are still warm (but not too hot), dip them into the apple cider glaze, coating them completely. You can use a fork or your fingers to do this.
2. Add Toppings (Optional): Immediately after glazing, sprinkle the donut holes with your desired toppings, such as granulated sugar, cinnamon sugar, chopped nuts, or sprinkles. The glaze will help the toppings adhere.
3. Let Set: Place the glazed and topped donut holes on a wire rack to allow the glaze to set completely. This will take about 15-20 minutes.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough donut holes. Mix until just combined.
• Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough is essential for making it easier to handle and preventing the donut holes from spreading too much during frying.
• Maintain the Correct Oil Temperature: Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the oil temperature and adjust the heat as needed.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Frying too many donut holes at once will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy donut holes.
• Glaze While Warm: Glazing the donut holes while they are still warm helps the glaze adhere better.
• Get Creative with Toppings: Experiment with different toppings to create your own unique flavor combinations.

Variations:

• Spiced Donut Holes: Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the dry ingredients for a more complex flavor.
• Maple Glaze: Substitute maple syrup for the apple cider in the glaze for a maple-flavored donut hole.
• Chocolate Glaze: Add cocoa powder to the glaze for a chocolatey twist.
• Filled Donut Holes: Use a pastry bag to fill the donut holes with jam, cream, or chocolate ganache after they have been fried and cooled.

Storage:

These apple cider donut holes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They may lose some of their crispness over time.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve these apple cider donut holes warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or a snack. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of milk.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Apple Cider Donut Holes are truly a must-try, and I’m not just saying that because I created the recipe. The combination of warm spices, the tang of apple cider, and that perfectly crisp exterior gives way to a soft, cakey interior that’s simply irresistible. They’re the perfect bite-sized treat for fall gatherings, cozy weekends, or even just a little something special to brighten up your day.

But what makes these donut holes so special? It’s the simplicity, really. You don’t need any fancy equipment or complicated techniques to achieve donut hole perfection. The recipe is straightforward, and the results are consistently delicious. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen as these little gems bake is pure autumnal bliss. It’s a sensory experience that will have everyone clamoring for a taste.

Beyond their inherent deliciousness, these Apple Cider Donut Holes are incredibly versatile. Serve them warm, straight from the oven, dusted with powdered sugar for a classic touch. Or, for a more decadent experience, try dipping them in a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and a splash of apple cider. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar adds a delightful warmth and texture.

Looking for even more ways to customize your donut holes? Consider these variations:

* Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter for an extra layer of warmth.
* Chocolate drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or milk chocolate over the cooled donut holes for a touch of indulgence.
* Nutty goodness: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the glaze for added crunch and flavor.
* Apple pie filling: Serve the donut holes with a scoop of warm apple pie filling for an ultimate fall dessert.
* Caramel sauce: A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce elevates these donut holes to a whole new level of deliciousness.

These donut holes are also fantastic served alongside a warm cup of coffee, tea, or, of course, apple cider! They make a wonderful addition to a brunch spread or a festive dessert table. They are also a great option for a potluck or bake sale.

I truly believe that everyone should experience the joy of homemade Apple Cider Donut Holes. They’re a simple pleasure that brings people together and creates lasting memories. So, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making donuts at home – this recipe is foolproof, and I’m confident that you’ll be thrilled with the results.

Once you’ve made these delightful treats, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and stories on social media using [Your Hashtag Here]. Let me know what variations you tried and what your family and friends thought. I’m always eager to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious bite! I can’t wait to hear how much you love these Apple Cider Donut Holes!