Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts are a healthier, modern twist on the traditional cider donut recipe. Instead of being deep-fried, these donuts are baked in an air fryer, eliminating excess oil while still delivering the same golden brown exterior and fluffy interior. Perfectly spiced and coated in cinnamon sugar, they’re the ideal treat for crisp fall mornings, cozy gatherings, or anytime you crave a comforting dessert.
Why Choose Air Fryer Donuts Over Traditional Methods?
Air frying is quickly becoming the go-to method for donuts, and it’s easy to see why:
- Healthier Option: Air fryer donuts are lower in fat and calories since they don’t require frying in oil.
- Less Mess: Forget dealing with messy pots of hot oil.
- Quick and Easy: Air fryers significantly cut cooking time, letting you enjoy your donuts faster.
- Consistent Results: Air fryers produce evenly cooked donuts with minimal effort.
Whether you’re trying to maintain a healthier diet or simply looking for a hassle-free recipe, air frying is the perfect solution.
Ingredients Needed for Apple Cider Donut Recipe
To whip up a batch of these donuts, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon of salt
- Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup of apple cider (preferably reduced for a concentrated flavor)
- 2 tablespoons of butter (melted)
- 1 egg
- ½ cup of granulated sugar
- ½ cup of light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- For the Topping:
- 1 tablespoon of cinnamon
- ½ cup of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of melted butter (to coat the donuts)
Most of these pantry staples are likely already in your kitchen. The key ingredient is apple cider, which lends a distinct, tangy sweetness that sets these donuts apart.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts
- Reduce the Cider:
- Simmer the apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reduces by half. This concentrates the flavor.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a large bowl.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- Mix the reduced apple cider, melted butter, egg, both sugars, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl.
- Form the Dough:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
- Shape the Donuts:
- Lightly flour a surface and roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use a round cutter to create donut shapes (or improvise with a glass and a bottle cap for the center).
- Air Fry:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Place the donuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t touch. Cook for 6–8 minutes or until golden brown.
- Coat and Serve:
- Brush the warm donuts with melted butter and toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Serve immediately!
Are Apple Cider Donuts Fried or Baked?
Traditional apple cider donuts are fried, giving them their golden, crispy exterior. By contrast, air fryer donuts mimic the texture of baked donuts while achieving a similar golden finish, offering a healthier alternative with the same delicious taste.
How to Prepare Apple Cider Donut Bites in an Air Fryer
Ingredients Needed:
- 1 cup of apple cider
- 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup buttermilk
- Cooking spray
- Cinnamon sugar mixture for coating
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- Reduce the apple cider on the stove by simmering it until it measures about ¼ cup. Allow it to cool.
- Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl.
- In a separate bowl, mix the sugar, egg, melted butter, buttermilk, and reduced apple cider.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
2. Shape the Donut Bites:
- Scoop small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon) and roll them into balls.
- Place the balls on a parchment-lined tray to prevent sticking.
3. Air Fry the Donut Bites:
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Lightly coat the basket with cooking spray.
- Place the donut bites in the basket, ensuring they are not touching to allow even cooking.
- Cook for 6–8 minutes or until golden brown, shaking the basket halfway through.
4. Coat and Serve:
- Toss the warm donut bites in the cinnamon sugar mixture for an irresistible finish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture in Air Fryer Donuts:
- Use Room-Temperature Ingredients
Ensure your ingredients, especially dairy products, are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother dough, which contributes to a light and fluffy texture.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough
Kneading or mixing the dough too much can make it tough. Handle the dough gently to keep the finished donuts soft.
- Space Them Out
Place the donut bites in the air fryer basket with enough space between them. Crowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and affect texture.
- Monitor Cooking Time
Overcooking can make the donuts dry. Start with the lower end of the recommended 6–8 minute range and check for doneness.
- Shake the Basket
Shaking the basket halfway through ensures even cooking on all sides, preventing any doughy spots.
- Toss While Warm
Coat your donut bites in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are still warm to allow the coating to adhere perfectly and maintain their deliciously soft texture.
Exploring Yeast Apple Cider Donuts: A Unique Variation
Yeast apple cider donuts are a delightful twist on the classic donut recipe, incorporating the rich flavors of apple cider and the airy texture provided by yeast. These treats are perfect for autumn gatherings or any occasion where a warm, spiced dessert is desired. Follow these nine steps to create this unique variation:
- Gather Ingredients
Collect all necessary ingredients, including apple cider, active dry yeast, all-purpose flour, sugar, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, butter, and eggs.
- Reduce the Apple Cider
Simmer the apple cider until it reduces by half, intensifying the flavor that will bring a tangy sweetness to the donuts.
- Activate the Yeast
Warm some milk and mix it with the yeast and a pinch of sugar. Allow it to bloom for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Prepare the Dough
Combine the reduced cider, yeast mixture, flour, sugar, eggs, spices, and softened butter to form a sticky dough. Knead until smooth.
- Allow the Dough to Rise
Place the dough in a warm, draft-free area and cover it with a clean towel. Allow it to rise for 1–2 hours or until it doubles in size.
- Roll and Cut
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ½-inch thickness. Use round cutters to shape the donuts and smaller cutters for the holes.
- Second Rise
Place the donuts on a lined baking sheet and allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes until puffed.
- Fry the Donuts
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the donuts a few at a time, flipping until golden brown on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Coat with Spiced Sugar
Mix sugar with cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg. Toss the warm donuts in the mixture to give them a sweet, spiced finish.
These yeast apple cider donuts are sure to become a favorite, with their light, airy texture and the comforting taste of apple cider spices in every bite!
Air Fryer Donut Holes: A Healthy Alternative
For a delicious yet slightly healthier twist on traditional donuts, try making air fryer donut holes. These bite-sized treats maintain the indulgent flavor you love while reducing the use of oil.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Spiced sugar (for coating)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough
- Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl.
- Add melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract, and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Donut Holes
- Roll small pieces of dough into balls approximately 1 inch in diameter.
- Place the dough balls on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Preheat and Cook in Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the donut holes in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and slightly crisp.
- Coat with Spiced Sugar
- While still warm, toss the donut holes in a mix of sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg for a flavorful coating.
These air fryer donut holes are a perfect snack for any time of day, offering the same cozy flavors with less guilt!
Apple Cider Donut Holes Recipe: Quick and Easy Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, apple cider, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Mix the Dough
- Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl (flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg).
- Slowly incorporate the wet ingredients (apple cider, eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract) to form a smooth dough.
Shape the Donut Holes
- Use a spoon or small scoop to portion the dough into equally sized balls.
- Roll them gently with your hands to create a smooth, round shape.
Cook in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the donut holes in the fryer basket, making sure they are not crowded.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
Add the Spiced Sugar Coating
- Mix sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl.
- Toss the warm donut holes in the spiced sugar mixture until fully coated.
Enjoy your warm and flavorful apple cider donut holes as a delicious treat for yourself or to share with friends and family!
The Secret to a Flavorful Apple Cider Donut Recipe (Fried)
Key Ingredients for Maximum Flavor
- Apple Cider Reduction: Boil fresh apple cider until reduced to a concentrated syrup for stronger apple flavor.
- Warm Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of allspice enhance the cozy, autumnal flavor.
- Fresh Apples (Optional): Grated or finely diced apples can add extra moisture and texture.
Perfecting the Frying Process
- Oil Selection: Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for frying to avoid overpowering the flavor.
- Ideal Temperature: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) to ensure a golden exterior without overcooking the inside.
- Batch Frying: Fry donut holes or rings in small batches to maintain consistent oil temperature.
Finishing Touch for a Flavorful Coating
- Spiced Sugar Coating: Roll warm donuts in a mixture of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a perfect sweet and spiced finish.
- Alternative Toppings: Consider a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel, or a glaze made with apple cider for an extra burst of flavor.
With the right ingredients and techniques, fried apple cider donuts become irresistibly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—perfect for any occasion!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts
- Skipping the Reduction of Apple Cider
Reducing the apple cider is crucial to amplifying its flavor. Skipping this step can result in donuts that lack the bold apple taste you’re aiming for.
- Overmixing the Dough
Mixing the dough too much can lead to dense, tough donuts. Gently combine the ingredients until just incorporated for a light, airy texture.
- Not Preheating the Air Fryer
Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking. Failure to do so may result in unevenly cooked or undercooked donuts.
- Overcrowding the Air Fryer Basket
Place donuts in a single layer with adequate space between them. Overcrowding can prevent proper airflow, leading to unevenly browned donuts.
- Skipping the Coating While Warm
For toppings like sugar or glaze to stick properly, coat the donuts while they are still warm. Allowing them to cool completely can result in toppings that slide off or fail to adhere evenly.
Avoiding these common missteps can help ensure your air fryer apple cider donuts turn out perfectly every time!
How to Store and Reheat Your Apple Cider Donuts
- Storing the Donuts
Allow the donuts to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to keep them fresh for a longer period, store them in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For even longer storage, freeze the donuts by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Room Temperature Donuts
To reheat donuts stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the donuts in the air fryer and heat for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
- Reheating Frozen Donuts
If reheating frozen donuts, allow them to thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, warm them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes. This ensures they regain their delicious softness and flavor.
Proper storage and reheating will help you enjoy your apple cider donuts as if they were freshly made!
Conclusion
Apple cider donuts are a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall with their warm spices and sweet apple flavor. By following the proper storage and reheating methods outlined above, you can extend their freshness and enjoy their comforting taste any time you wish. Whether shared with loved ones or savored as a personal indulgence, these donuts are sure to bring joy with every bite. Happy baking and enjoying!
FAQs
How long do apple cider donuts stay fresh?
When stored properly, apple cider donuts can stay fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature, 7 days in the refrigerator, or 3 months in the freezer.
Can I freeze apple cider donuts?
Yes, you can freeze apple cider donuts! Make sure they are completely cooled, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag before freezing.
What’s the best way to reheat apple cider donuts?
The air fryer is an excellent option for reheating apple cider donuts, as it helps them maintain their soft texture and flavor. Alternatively, you can use a conventional oven set at 350°F (175°C) to warm them for a few minutes.
Can I make apple cider donuts in advance?
Absolutely! Apple cider donuts can be made ahead and stored as described above. This makes them a perfect treat to prepare for gatherings or special occasions.
Can I use other fruit ciders instead of apple cider?
Yes, experimenting with other fruit ciders, like pear or cherry, can give a unique twist to your donuts. Just ensure the cider you use complements the warm spices in the recipe.
