Apple Cider Donut Holes With Cider Glaze Recipe

Nothing says crisp autumn mornings and cozy sweaters quite like the aroma of cinnamon and spiced apples wafting through the kitchen. While a trip to the local orchard is a beloved tradition, you can bring that same magic home with these irresistible Apple Cider Donut Holes. These bite-sized treats pack all the punch of a traditional donut but in a convenient, poppable form. Coated in a shimmering, tart cider glaze, they offer a perfect balance of sweetness and seasonal spice. Whether you are hosting a brunch or looking for a weekend project with the kids, these little gems are guaranteed to disappear faster than the fall leaves.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 24 donut holes
• Difficulty: Medium

Nutrition values

• Calories: 115 kcal per serving
• Protein: 1.5g
• Carbs: 19g

Why Make This Apple Cider Donut Holes With Cider Glaze Recipe

This recipe stands out because it utilizes a concentrated apple cider reduction, which intensifies the fruit flavor without watering down the batter. Unlike store-bought versions that can sometimes be dry, these homemade holes are incredibly moist and tender. They are much easier to handle than full-sized donuts, making them the perfect finger food for parties. Plus, the homemade cider glaze adds a professional touch that balances the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg perfectly.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh apple cider (reduced to 1/3 cup)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg, room temperature
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Vegetable oil for frying
• For the Glaze: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of the reduced apple cider, and a pinch of cinnamon.

Directions

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan over medium-high heat. Simmer the cider until it reduces to about 1/3 cup. This should take 10 to 12 minutes. This step is crucial as it concentrates the apple flavor. Once reduced, set it aside to cool completely before using it in the batter and glaze.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the egg, melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and about 3 tablespoons of your cooled cider reduction. Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients using a spatula. Mix just until combined; be careful not to overwork the dough, or the donut holes will be tough.

Step 3: Fry the Donut Holes

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Use a small cookie scoop or two spoons to drop rounded tablespoons of dough into the hot oil. Fry 4 to 5 holes at a time to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 2 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

While the donut holes are still slightly warm, prepare the glaze by whisking the powdered sugar with the remaining cider reduction and cinnamon. If the glaze is too thick, add a teaspoon of milk. Dip each donut hole into the glaze, turning to coat completely. Place them on a wire rack to allow the excess glaze to drip off and set before serving.

Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Cider Donut Holes With Cider Glaze Recipe

For the best results, always use a thermometer to monitor your oil temperature. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks; if it is too cold, the dough will soak up too much oil and become greasy. Also, ensure your ingredients, especially the egg and cider reduction, are at room temperature to create a smooth, emulsified batter. Finally, do not skip the cider reduction step! Using plain cider straight from the jug won’t provide that signature deep apple flavor we all crave.

Delicious Variations

• Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Instead of the glaze, toss the hot donut holes in a bowl of 1/2 cup sugar mixed with 1 tablespoon of cinnamon.
• Baked Version: If you prefer not to fry, bake the dough in a greased mini-muffin tin at 350°F for 10-12 minutes.
• Maple Twist: Swap one tablespoon of the cider in the glaze for pure maple syrup for a “Maple-Apple” flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Use a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-sensitive friendly treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

You can use apple juice in a pinch, but apple cider is unfiltered and contains more sediment and spice, which provides a much deeper and more complex flavor. If you use juice, the apple taste will be much milder.

How do I store leftovers?

These are best eaten fresh on the day they are made. However, you can store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If they become a bit stale, microwave them for 5-10 seconds to soften them up.

Why are my donut holes raw in the middle?

This usually happens if the oil temperature is too high. The outside browns quickly, making them look done while the center remains doughy. Use a kitchen thermometer to keep the oil steady at 350°F.

Can I make the dough in advance?

It is best to fry the dough immediately after mixing because the baking powder starts reacting as soon as it hits the moisture. If you wait too long, the donut holes won’t rise as well and will be dense.

Can I freeze these donut holes?

Yes, you can freeze unglazed donut holes for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature and warm them in the oven at 300°F for a few minutes before applying a fresh glaze.

Conclusion

These Apple Cider Donut Holes are the ultimate autumn treat that brings the charm of the countryside right to your kitchen table. With their tender crumb and vibrant cider glaze, they are a sophisticated yet simple dessert that everyone will love. Master the art of the cider reduction, and you will have a go-to recipe that your friends and family will request every time the leaves start to turn. Happy baking!

Print