Apple Cider Doughnuts (Not Fried)

🍏🍩 Apple Cider Doughnuts: A Delicious Fall Treat! 🍂🍁

What is it?
Apple Cider Doughnuts are a delightful autumnal treat that combines the flavors of fresh apple cider and warm, spiced doughnuts. These doughnuts are soft, moist, and bursting with the essence of apples and cinnamon, making them a beloved seasonal snack.

History:
The history of Apple Cider Doughnuts dates back to the United States, where they are closely associated with New England and the fall harvest season. The tradition of making doughnuts with apple cider likely began in the 19th century when apple orchards were plentiful in the region. This ingenious use of cider added a natural sweetness and apple flavor to the dough, creating a unique and beloved treat.

Components:

1. Apple Cider: Fresh, unfiltered apple cider is the star ingredient, providing the doughnuts with their distinct apple flavor.
2. Flour: All-purpose flour forms the base of the doughnut batter.
3. Baking Powder and Baking Soda: These leavening agents give the doughnuts their light and fluffy texture.
4. Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and sometimes a pinch of cloves or allspice provide the warm, aromatic spices.
5. Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the doughnut batter.
6. Egg: An egg helps bind the ingredients and adds moisture.
7. Butter: Unsalted butter enhances flavor and richness.
8. Vanilla Extract: This gives a subtle background flavor.
9. Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.

Steps to Prepare:

Preparation Time: Approximately 15 minutes
Cooking Time: About 10-15 minutes
Yields: 12-16 doughnuts

For the Doughnut Batter:

1. Reduce the Cider: Start by simmering 2 cups of apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s reduced to 1/2 cup. This intensifies the apple flavor. Allow it to cool.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 egg, 1/4 cup of unsalted melted butter, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced cider.
4. Combine and Mix: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix; a slightly lumpy batter is fine.

For Frying:
5. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil (about 2-3 inches deep) in a heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).

6. Shape Doughnuts: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/2-inch thickness and cut out doughnuts using a doughnut cutter or a round cookie cutter.
7. Fry Doughnuts: Carefully drop the doughnuts into the hot oil and fry until they are golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Optional Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
8. While the doughnuts are still warm, roll them in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar to coat.

Serve and Enjoy:
9. Serve your delicious Apple Cider Doughnuts warm, and enjoy the delightful taste of autumn!

Time Needed:
The entire process, from preparation to cooking, typically takes around 30-40 minutes. It may vary slightly depending on your cooking skills and equipment. But the delightful taste of these Apple Cider Doughnuts makes it all worth it! 🍂🍩😊

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Apple Cider Doughnuts (per serving, assuming a yield of 14 doughnuts):

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: Approximately 190 kcal
• Total Fat: 6 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 3.5 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: 25 mg
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 32 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 1 gram
  • Sugars: 14 grams
• Protein: 2 grams

Health Information:

• Moderation is Key: While Apple Cider Doughnuts are a delicious seasonal treat, they are also relatively high in calories and sugar. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Sugar Content: These doughnuts contain a significant amount of sugar, so they should be consumed sparingly, especially if you are watching your sugar intake.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes. It’s easy to indulge in multiple doughnuts, so consider sharing or freezing some for later.
• Nutritional Balance: To make this treat slightly healthier, you can consider using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar content in the doughnut batter.
• Frying Considerations: These doughnuts are typically deep-fried, which adds to their calorie and fat content. Baking them in the oven with a light mist of cooking spray is a healthier alternative.

Remember, indulging in seasonal treats like Apple Cider Doughnuts can be a delightful part of enjoying the fall season, but it’s essential to balance them with a nutritious diet and regular physical activity for overall health and well-being.