Claire Saffitz's Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

Discover the magic of Claire Saffitz's Apple Cider Donuts recipe! Follow step-by-step for a taste of fall perfection. 🍩🍏 #BakingInspiration

Claire Saffitz Apple Cider Donuts

• Publisher: Crisp Recipe
• Cuisine: American
• Category: Dessert
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 15
• Calories: 200 calories

Claire Saffitz's apple cider donuts offer a delightful twist on a classic treat. The recipe takes the traditional charm of donuts and elevates it with the warm, comforting essence of apple cider. The process begins by reducing the cider to concentrate its flavors, creating a sweet and tangy base that sets these donuts apart.

The combination of all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg yields a balanced and flavorful dough. Claire's touch of buttermilk adds a subtle richness, contributing to the overall moistness of the donuts. The careful incorporation of ingredients creates a harmonious blend that captures the essence of fall in every bite.

The dough, once mixed, undergoes a patient chill, allowing the flavors to meld and the texture to firm up. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect consistency in the final product. Cutting out the donuts and frying them to a golden brown perfection results in a crispy exterior that gives way to a tender, pillowy interior.

To complete the experience, the donuts are generously coated in a cinnamon sugar mixture. This final touch not only adds a sweet and spiced layer but also creates a nostalgic aroma that fills the kitchen.

With a nod to American cuisine, these apple cider donuts become a comforting indulgence, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat with a cup of coffee.

Recipe

Dive into a delectable world of flavors with Claire Saffitz's Apple Cider Donuts! Uncover the secrets to perfecting this fall-inspired treat. 🍎✨ #BakingMagic

Ingredients

• 2 cups apple cider
• 3.5 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• Oil for frying

Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1-2 tsp ground cinnamon

Method Instructions

1. Simmer apple cider until it's reduced to about 1/2 cup. Let it cool.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in the reduced apple cider.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Transfer the dough to a floured surface, pat it into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle, and chill for at least 1 hour.
7. After chilling, cut out donuts using a donut cutter or round cutters.
8. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry donuts for about 2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
9. Mix sugar and cinnamon. Toss warm donuts in the mixture until coated.

Recipe Video

Claire Saffitz Apple Cider Donuts

This is a video about Claire Saffitz Apple Cider Donuts.

Rated: 4.9 of 5.0 from 286 reviews.

Recipe Tags: Claire Saffitz Apple Cider Donuts, Claire Saffitz Apple Cider Donuts Recipe, Recipe

Servings

Serving Claire Saffitz's apple cider donuts is a delightful experience that complements their warm, spiced flavors. Here's a simple and enjoyable way to serve them:

• Freshly Made: Serve the apple cider donuts fresh out of the fryer or kitchen. The warmth and aroma will be irresistible.
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar (Optional): For an extra touch of sweetness, you can dust the donuts with a light coating of powdered sugar. This adds a subtle sweetness and a visually appealing finish.
• Accompany with Coffee or Tea: These donuts pair exceptionally well with a cup of hot coffee or tea. The combination of the spiced donuts and a warm beverage creates a comforting and satisfying experience.
• Serve on a Platter: Arrange the donuts on a serving platter or a wooden board for a charming presentation. This makes them easy to share and adds a touch of rustic elegance to the serving experience.
• Offer a Variety of Dipping Sauces (Optional): If you want to get creative, consider serving the donuts with a selection of dipping sauces. Caramel, chocolate ganache, or a simple vanilla glaze can enhance the flavor profile and offer a customizable element for your guests.

Tips

1. Use Fresh Apple Cider: Opt for high-quality, fresh apple cider to get the best flavor. Look for varieties without added sugars or preservatives.
2. Patience with Cider Reduction: Take your time when reducing the apple cider. A slow simmer allows the flavors to intensify, resulting in a more robust taste in the final donuts.
3. Chill the Dough Thoroughly: The chilling step is crucial for the donuts to maintain their shape and texture during frying. Don't rush this process; let the dough chill for at least 1 hour.
4. Maintain Oil Temperature: When frying, keep the oil temperature consistent at around 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the donuts cook evenly and achieve that golden-brown exterior.
5. Don't Overcrowd the Fryer: Fry the donuts in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer or pan. This allows each donut enough space to expand and cook evenly.
6. Toss in Cinnamon Sugar While Warm: For the perfect coating, toss the donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture while they are still warm. This helps the sugar adhere well and creates a delicious outer layer.
7. Get Creative with Coatings (Optional): Feel free to experiment with different coatings or glazes. Consider adding a touch of nutmeg or a drizzle of caramel for a unique twist.
8. Serve Fresh: These donuts are best enjoyed fresh on the day they are made. The warmth and freshness make a significant difference in taste and texture.
9. Embrace Imperfections: Don't worry if your donuts aren't perfectly shaped. Embrace the homemade, rustic charm—they'll taste just as delicious!

Ingredient Substitutes

While it's always ideal to stick to the original recipe for the best results, here are some potential ingredient substitutes for Claire Saffitz's apple cider donuts if you find yourself in a pinch or have dietary preferences:

1. Apple Cider: Substitute with apple juice if you can't find fresh apple cider. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different.
2. Buttermilk: If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1/2 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of milk. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
3. Unsalted Butter: Salted butter can be used as a substitute, but remember to adjust the overall salt content in the recipe accordingly.
4. Granulated Sugar: Brown sugar can be used as a substitute for granulated sugar, but it will impart a slightly different flavor.
5. All-Purpose Flour: Whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend can be used as alternatives, but the texture and taste may vary.
6. Baking Powder and Baking Soda: If you're out of one of these leavening agents, you can use more of the other, keeping in mind that it might affect the texture slightly.

Remarks

Indulge in the warmth of Claire Saffitz's apple cider donuts – a symphony of flavors that make every bite a cherished homemade delight. Happy baking! 🍩🍂 #BakingJoy