If you have a soft spot for fall flavors and crave something sweet, warm, and utterly irresistible, this Apple Cider Doughnut Holes Recipe is just what your heart—and taste buds—need. These little golden bites capture the crisp essence of apple cider combined with a perfect cinnamon sugar coating, making them a delightful treat that’s crispy on the outside, tender and fluffy on the inside. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh from the fryer or sharing with friends at a cozy gathering, this recipe brings the joy of a classic autumn fair right into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Apple Cider Doughnut Holes Recipe is refreshingly simple, and each component plays a special role in delivering flavor, texture, and that tempting golden hue. From fresh apple cider providing a subtle fruitiness to the warming spices that create that quintessential fall feeling, every element counts.
- 1 cup fresh apple cider: The star ingredient offering natural sweetness and moisture that brightens up the batter.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure; gluten-free flour blend works perfectly for those avoiding gluten.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness directly to the dough for balance with spices.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Provides the lift and airy texture that makes each doughnut hole light and fluffy.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings that warm, cozy spice note that pairs beautifully with apples.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds an extra layer of depth and autumnal flavor complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances all the sweet and spicy flavors.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients, creating a tender crumb—flax egg works for a vegan twist.
- 1/4 cup melted butter: Adds richness and a touch of buttery flavor; coconut oil can be swapped in for a dairy-free version.
- Vegetable oil: Needed for frying; use canola or peanut oil as alternatives to achieve that perfect golden crust.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating): Coats the finished doughnut holes with sweet crunch.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating): Mixed with sugar to deliver the signature cinnamon sugar exterior.
How to Make Apple Cider Doughnut Holes Recipe
Step 1: Whisk Together Dry and Wet Ingredients
Start by combining your dry ingredients in one bowl: flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the egg, melted butter, and fresh apple cider until everything is smooth and inviting. The magic happens when you gently fold the wet mix into the dry ingredients, creating a thick batter without overworking it. This ensures your doughnut holes will be tender, not tough.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Next, pour about 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot and heat it to 350°F (175°C). Using a thermometer here is key—too cool and the doughnuts will absorb too much oil, too hot and they’ll burn on the outside before cooking through. The right temperature guarantees that gorgeous golden crust with a perfectly cooked center.
Step 3: Fry the Doughnut Holes
With a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Fry in small batches to keep the temperature steady and avoid crowding the pan. Flip the doughnut holes occasionally for even browning. After about 2 to 3 minutes, they should be perfectly puffed and golden all over.
Step 4: Drain and Coat in Cinnamon Sugar
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the hot doughnut holes to paper towels to drain off any excess oil. While they’re still warm (but cool enough to handle), roll them generously in a bowl of cinnamon sugar. This sweet coating is what transforms these bites from good to absolutely crave-worthy.
How to Serve Apple Cider Doughnut Holes Recipe
Garnishes
These doughnut holes shine on their own, but a little extra love never hurts. Consider sprinkling some powdered sugar on top or drizzling a light glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of apple cider. For an indulgent touch, serve with a side of whipped cream or a cinnamon-spiced caramel dip.
Side Dishes
Pair your Apple Cider Doughnut Holes Recipe with warm apple cider or a spiced chai latte for a cozy, fall-inspired snack. They also make a fantastic companion to a breakfast spread featuring scrambled eggs and fresh fruit to balance sweetness with savory.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties or gatherings, serve these doughnut holes skewered on cinnamon sticks or place them in cute paper cones for easy, portable indulgence. You could also assemble a doughnut hole platter with small bowls of different dips: chocolate, caramel, and maple glaze for dipping heaven.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself lucky enough to have leftovers from your Apple Cider Doughnut Holes Recipe, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keep them away from moisture to maintain that delightful crispy exterior.
Freezing
You can freeze these doughnut holes once cooled completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze initially, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to one month, ready for you to enjoy later with minimal effort.
Reheating
To bring back their fresh-from-the-fryer magic, reheat the doughnut holes in a warm oven at 325°F for 5 to 7 minutes or pop them in a toaster oven. This method helps restore crispiness better than the microwave, which can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I make these doughnut holes gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free blend and you’ll have delicious, allergy-friendly apple cider doughnut holes that taste just as amazing.
Is it possible to bake these instead of frying?
While these doughnut holes are traditionally fried for that signature crispness, you could try baking them as a healthier alternative, but expect a different texture—less crispy and more cake-like.
Can I use apple juice instead of fresh apple cider?
Fresh apple cider is preferred for its depth of flavor, but in a pinch, unsweetened apple juice can work. Just know your doughnuts might lose a bit of that authentic cider punch.
What’s the best oil for frying doughnut holes?
Vegetable oil is great due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor. Canola, peanut, or light olive oil also work if you prefer. Avoid oils with low smoke points to prevent burning.
Can I make the batter ahead of time?
Because baking powder is a leavening agent that loses potency over time, it’s best to fry the doughnut holes soon after mixing the batter for the fluffiest results.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cider Doughnut Holes Recipe is truly a celebration of cozy flavors and simple pleasures. Whether it’s a crisp fall morning, a festive gathering, or just a special treat to brighten your day, these doughnut holes hit all the right notes. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a beloved favorite to make — and share — again and again. Go ahead, dive in and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Apple Cider Doughnut Holes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 doughnut holes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delight in these homemade Apple Cider Doughnut Holes, a perfect bite-sized treat that combines the sweet, spiced flavors of fresh apple cider with a crispy fried exterior. These doughnut holes are easy to make, fried to golden perfection, and coated in a warm cinnamon sugar mixture, delivering an irresistible fall-inspired snack or dessert.
Ingredients
Doughnut Holes Batter
- 1 cup fresh apple cider
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free version)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg (or 1 flax egg for vegan option)
- 1/4 cup melted butter (or coconut oil for vegan option)
For Frying
- Vegetable oil (or canola/peanut oil) for frying, enough to fill a deep skillet 2-3 inches deep
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine the egg, melted butter, and fresh apple cider until fully smooth. Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture gently until a smooth, thick batter forms, being careful not to overmix to keep the doughnut holes tender.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot until it reaches 2 to 3 inches in depth. Heat the oil over medium heat to reach 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer to ensure the temperature is accurate for optimal frying.
- Fry the Doughnut Holes: Using a small cookie scoop or a tablespoon, carefully drop spoonfuls of batter into the hot oil. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking. Fry each batch for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally with a slotted spoon, until the doughnut holes are golden brown and cooked through.
- Drain and Coat: Remove the fried doughnut holes using a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. While the doughnut holes are still warm, roll them generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture made from 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon, coating them evenly for that classic sweet finish.
Notes
- For a vegan version, substitute the egg with a flax egg and melted butter with coconut oil.
- Use a deep-frying thermometer to maintain accurate oil temperature for best results and to avoid greasy doughnut holes.
- Do not overcrowd the frying pan to ensure even cooking and proper crispiness.
- Fresh apple cider gives the best flavor; however, you can simmer concentrated apple juice to reduce it if cider is unavailable.
- Store leftover doughnut holes in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat briefly in an oven to regain crispiness.
