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Crispy Apple Cider Donut Holes Easy Homemade Recipe with Cinnamon Sugar Coating

apple cider donut holes - featured image

These crispy apple cider donut holes are tender inside with a cinnamon sugar coating, perfect for a quick and cozy fall treat. They are easy to make with simple ingredients and deliver a nostalgic, comforting flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider
  • 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • Vegetable oil for frying (can substitute canola or light olive oil)
  • Cinnamon sugar coating: ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar. (5 minutes)
  2. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider, 2 large eggs (room temperature), and ¼ cup (60 g) melted unsalted butter until smooth and slightly frothy. (3 minutes)
  3. Bring it together: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix; the batter should be thick but still a bit sticky. (2 minutes)
  4. Heat the oil: Pour about 2 inches (5 cm) of vegetable oil into a frying pan or Dutch oven and heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer or the batter test method. (10 minutes)
  5. Fry the donut holes: Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop 1-inch (2.5 cm) dollops of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches of 6 to 8, cooking each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. (15-20 minutes total)
  6. Drain and coat: Remove donut holes with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels for a minute. While still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated. (5 minutes)
  7. Serve warm: Enjoy fresh for the best crispy outside and tender inside texture.

Notes

Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked donut holes. Do not overcrowd the pan to keep oil temperature steady. Toss donut holes in cinnamon sugar while warm for best coating adhesion. For gluten-free, substitute flour with gluten-free baking blend. For dairy-free, use melted coconut oil instead of butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider donut holes, cinnamon sugar donut holes, fall dessert, quick donut recipe, homemade donut holes, crispy donut holes, easy fall treats