Apple Cider Glazed Donuts: Irresistible Sweet Indulgence

Apple cider glazed donuts hold a special place in my heart, a nostalgic reminder of crisp autumn days spent at the apple orchard with my family. The aroma of fresh apples and warm cinnamon filled the air, wrapping us in the cozy embrace of the season. These donuts, with their delicate glaze and perfectly spiced touch, evoke that same warmth and joy.

Over at GrandMmaDelights, I strive to recreate these cherished moments through my recipes, bringing the heart of home-cooked meals to your kitchen. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with loved ones, celebrating life’s little joys together.

The apple cider glazed donut recipe I’m sharing today is not just a treat; it’s a gateway to those delightfully simple pleasures. With each bite, you embrace the balance of sweet and spiced flavors, creating a moment worth savoring. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey together, crafting donuts that are as delightful to make as they are to eat.

Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 donuts 1x

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Description

Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of Apple Cider Glazed Donuts with our easy-to-follow recipe. Learn how to make these irresistible treats today!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 275 ml (1 cup + 2 tbsp) milk lukewarm
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 1/4 tsp (11 ml) active dry yeast
• 2 large eggs room temperature
• 1 tsp (5 ml) vanilla bean paste
• 1 tsp (5 ml) fine sea salt
• 4 1/2 cups (565g) all-purpose flour
• 7 tbsp (100g) unsalted butter diced and softened
• 3/4 cup (185g) apple juice (reduced to 3 tbsp)
• 3/4 cup (180g) powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp (30g) heavy cream
• vegetable oil for frying
• ground cinnamon for sprinkling

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the milk, yeast, and 2 tablespoons of sugar, then mix. Add in the remaining sugar, eggs, flour, salt, and vanilla, mixing until just combined.
2. Attach the dough hook and mix on medium for around 5 minutes until a soft dough forms. Gradually incorporate the butter, a few pieces at a time, while the mixer is on low. Continue kneading for 10-15 minutes until the dough is smooth, elastic, and detaches from the bowl’s sides. *If you lack a stand mixer, knead the dough manually at this stage.*
3. Transfer the dough into a large, lightly oiled bowl, cover it with plastic wrap, and let it rise until it doubles, approximately 60-90 minutes. Alternatively, refrigerate overnight for easier handling.
4. To shape the donuts, place the dough on a floured surface and roll it to about 1/2 inch thickness. Use a round cutter to create circles, placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between each. Using a smaller cutter, make holes in the center of each circle, placing the cut-out centers on the sheet as well. Cover with plastic wrap.
5. Allow the donuts to proof for 20 minutes, checking if they hold an indentation when lightly pressed. This may take longer if the dough is cold.
6. Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (180°C) in a deep fryer or heavy pot. Prepare a baking sheet with paper towels to drain the fried donuts.
7. Carefully lower a few donuts at a time into the hot oil. Fry until golden underneath, about 2-3 minutes, then flip and cook the opposite side for another 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to the paper towel-lined sheet, then move to a cooling rack.
8. Simmer the apple juice in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 3 tablespoons. Check progress at intervals like 5, 10, and 15 minutes. Cool for 10 minutes.
9. Whisk together the powdered sugar, reduced apple juice, and heavy cream in a medium bowl until smooth. Adjust thickness with powdered sugar or cream as needed. Dip each cooled donut in the glaze, set on a rack with the glaze facing up, and sprinkle ground cinnamon immediately.

Notes

• Consider using vanilla extract for a richer flavor.
• Ensure eggs are at room temperature for proper dough consistency.
• Proof donuts until they hold an indentation for a light, fluffy texture.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 280
• Fat: 9g
• Protein: 5g

Keywords: yeast doughnuts, apple glaze, fried doughnuts, cinnamon topping, homemade doughnuts

Crafting the Perfect Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

Fundamentals

Creating the perfect apple cider glazed donuts starts with understanding the basics of the dough. We use active dry yeast to give our donuts that classic, airy texture. Combine lukewarm milk, yeast, and a bit of sugar to activate the yeast. This step is crucial for achieving that light, fluffy texture.

The dough’s foundation lies in combining eggs, all-purpose flour, vanilla bean paste, and a pinch of fine sea salt. These ingredients come together to form a rich, flavorful base. The addition of softened unsalted butter brings a tender crumb to each bite, ensuring the donuts melt in your mouth.

Preparation/setup

Begin your donut-making journey by setting up your station with all necessary tools and ingredients. A stand mixer will make the process smoother, but if you prefer a hands-on approach, knead the dough manually. Once combined, allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size, taking approximately 60 to 90 minutes.

For those planning ahead, refrigerate the dough overnight. This not only makes handling easier but also deepens the flavors. As the dough rises, reduce apple juice in a saucepan to create a concentrated glaze base.

Mastering the Art of Donut Making

Technique

Once your dough is ready, the real artistry begins. Roll the dough to about 1/2 inch thickness on a floured surface. Use a round cutter to shape your donuts, ensuring they have enough space on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Don’t forget to cut out the centers to create the iconic donut shape!

Let the shaped donuts proof for about 20 minutes. This allows them to rise slightly and develop a soft, pillowy texture. Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pot to 350°F (180°C) to prepare for frying.

Tips and Tricks

Achieving the perfect fry requires some finesse. Carefully lower the donuts into the hot oil and fry until golden brown on each side, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined sheet to drain excess oil.

For optimal results, ensure the oil maintains a steady temperature. Too hot, and the donuts may burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil. Consistency is key, so monitor the temperature closely during frying.

Refining Your Donut Craft

Perfecting Results

After frying, let the donuts cool slightly. This is when the magic of the glaze comes into play. Whisk together powdered sugar, reduced apple juice, and heavy cream until smooth. Dip each donut in the glaze, allowing it to coat the top evenly.

Sprinkle ground cinnamon over the glazed donuts immediately to add a touch of spice. This not only enhances the flavor but also gives the donuts a visually appealing finish. Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Troubleshooting and Variations

If your donuts aren’t turning out as expected, consider the dough’s consistency. It should be soft and elastic, not sticky. Adjust the flour or liquid amounts slightly if needed. For a fun twist, try using this technique to make Dunkin Donuts Glazed Donuts or explore other flavors like Air Fryer Lemon Donuts.

For those who enjoy experimenting, try incorporating different spices or extracts into the dough or glaze. You can also explore making Cinnamon Glazed Apple Fritter Bites for a delightful variation.

Presenting and Enjoying Apple Cider Glazed Donuts

Serving and Presentation

Serve your apple cider glazed donuts on a beautiful platter, inviting guests to indulge in their delicate sweetness. The combination of apple and cinnamon creates a comforting aroma that sets the stage for a delightful experience.

Pair these donuts with a warm beverage, like tea or coffee, to enhance their flavors. Whether enjoyed as a morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up, these donuts are sure to bring smiles.

Pairings and Storage

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For a fresh twist, try pairing them with dishes like Maple Apple Cider Venison Jerky or Sous Vide Pomegranate Glazed Chicken Legs, creating a delightful balance of sweet and savory.

For longer storage, freeze the donuts in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw at room temperature and, if desired, warm them in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

Apple cider glazed donuts offer a delightful way to savor the flavors of fall. Their soft, fluffy texture and sweet, spiced glaze make them a standout treat in any season. By mastering the techniques and embracing the joy of home cooking, you’ll create donuts that are as satisfying to make as they are to enjoy.

These donuts shine in their simplicity, capturing the essence of comfort and nostalgia. Whether shared with loved ones or savored alone, they bring warmth and joy to every bite. Let this recipe become a cherished part of your collection, inviting you to explore the beauty of creating homemade delights.

FAQs – Apple Cider Glazed Donuts