Irresistible Washington Apple Cider Doughnuts: A Flavorful Autumn Delight You Can’t Miss
Imagine a crisp autumn morning, the scent of spiced apple cider swirling through the air, as golden leaves dance around you. You’re holding a warm, sugar-dusted doughnut in your hand—the kind that embodies everything we love about fall. It’s not just any doughnut, but a Washington Apple Cider Doughnut, bursting with the rich, tart flavor of Washington apples and a blend of spices that make you want to savor every bite. These doughnuts aren’t just a treat; they’re an experience, a memory waiting to be made.
I remember the first time I made these doughnuts for a family brunch. The kitchen was filled with the mouthwatering aroma of apple cider simmering on the stove, reducing to a sweet, concentrated elixir. We gathered around the table, and the moment everyone took their first bite, there was a collective sigh of contentment. Since that day, these doughnuts have become a staple in our home, especially when the leaves start to turn.
The Necessary Ingredients
- · Apple Cider: 1 ½ cups of Washington apple cider, reduced to ½ cup
- · Butter: 4 tablespoons, unsalted and melted
- · Sugar: ½ cup granulated sugar
- · Brown Sugar: ½ cup packed brown sugar
- · Eggs: 2 large eggs, room temperature
- · Buttermilk: ½ cup
- · Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- · Flour: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
- · Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons
- · Baking Soda: ½ teaspoon
- · Salt: 1 teaspoon
- · Cinnamon: 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- · Nutmeg: ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- · Allspice: ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- · Cloves: ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- · Oil: For frying (vegetable or canola oil)
The Steps of Preparation
- Pour the apple cider into a saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Cook until it reduces to about ½ cup. Let it cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves.
- In a separate bowl, beat the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the buttermilk, vanilla extract, and cooled apple cider reduction.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to handle.
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter to cut out the doughnuts and holes.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the doughnuts in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Cook each side for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove the doughnuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- While still warm, toss the doughnuts in a cinnamon-sugar mixture or drizzle with a glaze of your choice.
- immediately
Alternative Ingredients:
- Vegan Version: Substitute butter with vegan butter, and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) for each egg. Replace buttermilk with almond milk curdled with 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.
- Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Lower Sugar: Use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: Rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes heart health.
- Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Nutmeg: Known for its ability to improve digestion and boost immune function.
- Buttermilk: Provides calcium and vitamin D, essential for bone health.
- Eggs: A great source of high-quality protein and essential amino acids.
- Flour: Provides energy and is fortified with iron and B vitamins.
- Low Sugar Option: Reducing sugar can help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
These doughnuts not only delight your taste buds but also offer a few surprising health benefits.
Possible Additions or Upgrades
- Glaze: Drizzle with a maple glaze or caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Nuts: Add finely chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough for a crunchy texture.
- Fruit: Fold in diced apples or raisins for a fruity twist.
- Spices: Experiment with different spice blends like pumpkin spice or chai for a unique flavor profile.
- Toppings: Try a dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-savory contrast.
- Baking Option: Bake the doughnuts at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes if you prefer a healthier version without frying.
You can truly make this recipe your own by incorporating these delightful variations.
Questions and Answers
Can I make the doughnuts ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before frying.
Can I freeze the doughnuts?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked doughnuts and fry them straight from the freezer. Adjust frying time slightly.
What if I don’t have a doughnut cutter?
You can use a biscuit cutter or even a round glass. Use a smaller cutter for the center hole.
Can I bake these doughnuts instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative! They won’t be as crispy, but they’ll still be delicious.
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Apple cider is recommended for its robust flavor, but apple juice can work in a pinch.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Can I reheat the doughnuts?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
What other types of glaze can I use?
A simple powdered sugar glaze, chocolate glaze, or even a spiced glaze would be wonderful.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Are these doughnuts suitable for kids?
Absolutely! These doughnuts are a hit with children, especially when you let them help with the decorating.
These doughnuts are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to create memories with your loved ones. From my experience, sharing these at family gatherings always brings smiles and requests for seconds.
Finally, if you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family on social media. Let them in on this autumn delight, and maybe even invite them over for a doughnut-making party
