These Sourdough Apple Cider Donuts are fluffy, sweet, and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. They’re a yummy treat that combines the tang of sourdough with the warm flavors of fall!
Who can resist the smell of fresh donuts frying? I love serving them warm with a cup of coffee. They’re perfect for cozy mornings or sharing with friends! 🍩☕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider gives these donuts a great taste. If it’s not available, apple juice can work, but it won’t be as rich in flavor. Just make sure to reduce it like the cider!
Sourdough Starter: Using an active sourdough starter brings a nice tang to the donuts. If you don’t have sourdough, you can try using plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar moisture level, but it won’t have the same flavor.
Flour: I recommend using all-purpose flour for the right texture. If you’re going gluten-free, a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend should work too, but check for any additives for the best results.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal, but you can use coconut oil or vegetable oil for a dairy-free version. Just remember to melt it first!
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Both spices are crucial for that classic fall flavor. If you’re short on nutmeg, you can skip it or add a bit more cinnamon instead.
How Can I Ensure My Donuts Have the Right Texture?
The texture of your sourdough apple cider donuts relies on handling the dough carefully. Avoid overmixing once you combine wet and dry ingredients; this keeps them light and fluffy.
- Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to roll out.
- Frying at the right temperature is key; keep the oil at 350°F (175°C) to prevent greasy donuts.
- Let them drain on paper towels to remove excess oil, and toss them in cinnamon sugar while still warm for a lovely coating.
These tips will help you achieve a perfect batch of donuts every time! Enjoy each bite with a warm beverage, and share with family and friends for a cozy gathering! 🍏🍩
How to Make Sourdough Apple Cider Donuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Donuts:
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar, divided
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup active sourdough starter (100% hydration)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of active prep time, plus about 1 hour for chilling. You’ll spend a bit of time frying, but the result is worth every minute. Total time with chilling is about 1 hour and 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Reduce the Apple Cider:
Start by pouring the apple cider into a small saucepan. Place it over medium heat and let it simmer gently. You want to reduce it down to about 1/4 cup. This thickens the cider and concentrates the flavor. Once it’s thickened, take it off the heat and let it cool completely.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure there are no lumps; this will help your donuts be light and fluffy!
3. Combine Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, mix the sourdough starter, egg, melted butter, buttermilk, and the cooled apple cider reduction until it’s nice and smooth. You’re building a delicious flavor base here!
4. Make the Dough:
Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
5. Chill the Dough:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you have the time. Chilling allows the flavors to develop and makes the dough easier to handle.
6. Prepare for Frying:
When you’re ready to fry, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. Aim for a temperature of about 350°F (175°C). A kitchen thermometer is helpful here to ensure the oil is just right!
7. Roll and Cut:
Lightly flour a work surface and roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters (a larger one for the donut and a smaller one for the hole) to cut out your donuts. Gather any scraps and re-roll the dough to cut out more.
8. Fry the Donuts:
Carefully place a few donuts into the hot oil at a time. Fry them for about 1 to 2 minutes per side, watching them closely until they turn golden brown. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the donuts to a paper towel-lined tray to drain off excess oil.
9. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:
In a small bowl, mix together the 1/2 cup sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. While the donuts are still warm, toss them gently in this mixture until they are fully coated. This gives them that delicious sweet and spicy finish!
10. Serve Warm:
Enjoy your donuts warm for the best experience! These tangy and spiced sourdough apple cider donuts are the perfect treat for a cozy day, especially with a nice cup of coffee or tea!
Enjoy each bite of these delicious donuts; they’re a true taste of autumn bliss!
Can I Use Store-Bought Apple Cider?
Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure to reduce it to concentrate the flavor before adding it to your dough.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Sourdough Starter?
If you don’t have sourdough starter, you can substitute it with plain yogurt or buttermilk. About 1 cup should work, but keep in mind the flavor will differ slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Donuts?
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just reheat in a toaster oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
Can I Bake These Donuts Instead of Frying?
Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the donuts in a greased donut pan, and bake for about 10-12 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. They won’t have the same crispy exterior as fried donuts, but they’ll still be delicious!
