Fall Delight: Indulge in Homemade Apple Cider Doughnuts

Introduction:

As the crisp autumn air sets in and orchards brim with ripe, juicy apples, there’s no better time to embrace the flavors of the season with homemade apple cider doughnuts. These delightful treats combine the comforting warmth of apple cider with the irresistible sweetness of a classic doughnut, making them a beloved favorite for fall gatherings and cozy weekends at home. In this article, we’ll guide you through a simple yet satisfying recipe for crafting these delectable doughnuts from scratch, ensuring a warm and welcoming taste of autumn in every bite.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups apple cider
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• 1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Method of preparation:

1. Reduce the Apple Cider:
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, simmer the apple cider until it reduces to about 1/2 cup, stirring occasionally. This process concentrates the flavor of the cider. Allow the reduced cider to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves until well combined. Set aside.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   • In a separate large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined. Add the cooled melted butter, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and cooled reduced apple cider. Mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
4. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough doughnuts. The dough will be sticky but should hold together.
5. Chill the Dough:
   • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm. Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and results in a better texture.
6. Shape and Fry the Doughnuts:
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to a thickness of about 1/2 inch. Use a doughnut cutter or two round cookie cutters (one large and one small) to cut out doughnut shapes.
   • In a large, deep pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the doughnuts in batches, turning once, until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 1-2 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried doughnuts to a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain and cool.
7. Optional: Coat the Doughnuts:
   • While the doughnuts are still warm, you can coat them in cinnamon sugar for an extra burst of flavor. Simply toss the doughnuts in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly coated.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Serve the apple cider doughnuts warm or at room temperature, paired with a steaming mug of apple cider or your favorite hot beverage. Enjoy the cozy flavors of fall with every delicious bite!

Conclusion:

With their irresistible combination of apple cider-infused dough and warm spices, homemade apple cider doughnuts are the epitome of autumn indulgence. Whether enjoyed as a sweet treat on a brisk afternoon or shared with loved ones at a fall gathering, these delightful doughnuts are sure to bring joy to any occasion. So don your apron, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary adventure to savor the flavors of the season with these delicious homemade treats.

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FAQ’s:

1. Can I use store-bought apple cider for this recipe?
   • Yes, you can use store-bought apple cider. However, for the best flavor, consider using freshly pressed apple cider when available. If using store-bought cider, look for one that is 100% apple juice without added sugars or preservatives.
2. I don’t have a doughnut cutter. Can I still make these doughnuts?
   • Absolutely! If you don’t have a doughnut cutter, you can use two round cookie cutters—one large and one small—to cut out the doughnut shapes. Alternatively, you can shape the dough into rounds and poke a hole in the center with your finger to create a doughnut shape.
3. Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying them?
   • While frying gives the doughnuts their classic crispy exterior, you can bake them for a healthier alternative. Simply place the shaped doughnuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
4. How should I store leftover doughnuts?
   • Store any leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the doughnuts for up to 1 month. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.
5. Can I make the dough ahead of time and fry it later?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Let it come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling and cutting out the doughnuts.

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