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There's something undeniably joyful about creating homemade treats in your kitchen. The aroma of baking wafts through your home, bringing warmth and comfort, especially during the cooler months. As the leaves begin to change and autumn settles in, one of the most cherished flavors of the season emerges: apple cider. This iconic beverage, with its sweet and tart notes, has a timeless appeal that evokes memories of fall festivals and orchard visits. In this spirit, we present a delightful recipe for Apple Cider Glazed Donut Holes. Not only are these treats easy to make, but they also offer a rewarding way to savor the classic flavors of the season.

Apple Cider Glazed Donut Holes

Warm up your autumn days with the delightful aroma of homemade Apple Cider Glazed Donut Holes. This easy recipe captures the essence of fall, blending sweet apple cider with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfectly tender and fluffy, these donut holes are a treat the whole family will love. Indulge in the sweet, glossy glaze and enjoy them fresh from the fryer with a warm beverage. Create delicious memories this season!

Ingredients
  

1 cup apple cider

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/2 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Oil for frying (enough to submerge the donut holes)

For the glaze:

1/2 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons apple cider

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions
 

Prepare the Apple Cider Reduction: In a medium saucepan, pour in the apple cider and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until it has thickened and reduced to approximately 1/4 cup. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.

    Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these ingredients together until they are evenly mixed.

      Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed. Then add the melted unsalted butter, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and the cooled apple cider reduction. Stir the mixture until all the wet ingredients are fully combined.

        Combine Mixtures: Gradually pour the wet ingredient mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir the two mixtures together with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. It’s important not to overmix; leaving a few lumps is perfectly fine.

          Prepare for Frying: In a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure you use enough oil to completely submerge the donut holes during frying, which will help them cook evenly.

            Form Donut Holes: Using a small cookie scoop or a teaspoon, carefully drop rounded balls of dough into the hot oil. Fry them in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which could lower the oil temperature.

              Cook Until Golden: Fry the donut holes for approximately 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they achieve a beautiful golden brown color. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

                Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, combine the powdered sugar, apple cider, and ground cinnamon. Whisk together until you have a smooth, creamy glaze.

                  Glaze the Donut Holes: While the donut holes are still warm, dip each one into the glaze, ensuring they are fully coated. Place the glazed donut holes on a wire rack to allow any excess glaze to drip off.

                    Serve: Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your warm, delicious homemade apple cider glazed donut holes with a loved one or savor them all to yourself!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | Makes 24 donut holes