Apple Cider Donut Holes

Name: Apple Cider Donut Holes: Discover Your New Favorite Treat!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup apple cider; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Oil for frying

Posted on September 17, 2025

Dessert

Introduction to Apple Cider Donut Holes

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of freshly made Apple Cider Donut Holes wafting through the kitchen. These delightful treats are not just for fall; they’re perfect for any busy day when you need a quick pick-me-up or a sweet surprise for your loved ones. I remember the first time I made these little bites of joy; my kids couldn’t get enough! With just a handful of ingredients and a little love, you can create a moment of happiness that everyone will cherish.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donut Holes

These Apple Cider Donut Holes are a dream come true for busy moms and professionals alike. They come together in just 30 minutes, making them a quick solution for unexpected guests or a sweet treat after a long day. The fluffy texture and warm spices create a cozy experience that feels like a hug in every bite. Plus, who can resist the joy of frying up a batch of these delightful morsels?

Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Holes

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these scrumptious Apple Cider Donut Holes. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the base of your donut holes, giving them that fluffy texture we all love.
Apple cider: The star of the show! It adds a sweet, tangy flavor that screams fall.
Granulated sugar: This sweetens the batter and helps create that lovely golden crust.
Brown sugar: It brings a hint of caramel flavor, enhancing the overall taste.
Baking soda: This helps the donut holes rise, making them light and airy.
Baking powder: Another leavening agent that ensures your treats are fluffy and not dense.
Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that adds a cozy aroma and flavor, perfect for fall.
Ground nutmeg: This spice complements the cinnamon and gives a hint of warmth.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Large egg: It binds the ingredients together and adds richness to the batter.
Unsalted butter: Melted butter adds moisture and a rich flavor to the donut holes.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla elevates the flavor profile, making it even more delightful.
Oil for frying: Choose a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for frying to achieve that perfect crispy exterior.

Feel free to get creative! You can swap out the spices or even add in some chopped apples for extra texture. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Holes

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making these delightful Apple Cider Donut Holes! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a batch of warm, fluffy treats in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This combination creates the perfect base for your donut holes. Make sure to whisk it well, so everything is evenly distributed. The aroma of the spices will already start to fill your kitchen!

Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the apple cider, large egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. This mixture is where the magic happens! The apple cider adds that signature flavor, while the butter and egg bring richness to the batter. Whisk until it’s smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. This will keep your donut holes light and fluffy, just the way we want them!

Step 4: Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or large pot, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior. If you don’t have a thermometer, drop a small amount of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, you’re good to go!

Step 5: Fry the Donut Holes

Using a small cookie scoop, drop the batter into the hot oil, frying a few at a time. Don’t overcrowd the pot; this will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy donut holes. Fry until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side. The sight of them bubbling away is pure joy!

Step 6: Drain and Coat

Once golden brown, carefully remove the donut holes and drain them on paper towels. This step helps get rid of excess oil. While they’re still warm, roll them in a mixture of sugar and cinnamon. This sweet coating is what makes them irresistible!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Apple Cider Donut Holes warm for the best experience. They’re perfect for sharing with family or enjoying with a cup of coffee. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be hooked!

Tips for Success

Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that crispy texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pot; fry in small batches for even cooking.
Use a cookie scoop for uniform donut holes that cook evenly.
Roll the warm donut holes in sugar and cinnamon immediately for the best coating.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Equipment Needed

Deep fryer or large pot: A deep fryer is ideal, but a heavy-bottomed pot works just as well.
Thermometer: A candy or frying thermometer helps ensure the oil is at the right temperature.
Cookie scoop: This makes portioning the batter easy, but you can use a spoon if needed.
Slotted spoon: Perfect for removing the donut holes from the oil.
Paper towels: Essential for draining excess oil after frying.

Variations

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these donut holes suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Spiced Apple Cider: Add a splash of spiced apple cider for an extra kick of flavor that enhances the fall vibes.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a simple maple glaze over the warm donut holes for a sweet twist that pairs beautifully with the apple flavor.
Chocolate Chip: Fold in mini chocolate chips into the batter for a delightful surprise in every bite.
Vegan Option: Replace the egg with a flax egg and use plant-based butter to create a vegan-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Apple Cider Donut Holes with a warm cup of spiced apple cider for a cozy treat.
Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Present them on a rustic wooden platter, dusted with powdered sugar for an inviting look.
Offer a side of caramel sauce for dipping, adding an extra layer of sweetness.

FAQs about Apple Cider Donut Holes

Can I make Apple Cider Donut Holes ahead of time?

While these donut holes are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the batter ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, fry them up for a warm treat!

What can I do with leftover donut holes?

If you have any leftover Apple Cider Donut Holes, store them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for a couple of days. You can also reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their warmth and crispiness.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake the donut holes. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the batter in a greased mini muffin tin, and bake for about 10-12 minutes. They won’t have the same crispy exterior, but they’ll still be delicious!

How do I know when the oil is hot enough for frying?

A good way to check is to drop a small amount of batter into the oil. If it sizzles and rises to the surface, your oil is ready. A thermometer is also a great tool to ensure it reaches 350°F (175°C).

Can I use other types of cider?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different types of cider, like spiced or hard cider, to add unique flavors to your Apple Cider Donut Holes. Just keep in mind that the sweetness level may vary.

Final Thoughts

Making Apple Cider Donut Holes is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warmth and joy. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as they fry is simply irresistible. Each bite is a little piece of happiness, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying during a quiet moment with a cup of coffee. Whether it’s a chilly fall afternoon or a busy weekday, these donut holes bring a touch of comfort to any occasion. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing them as I do. Happy cooking!