Hot Apple Cider Donut Holes (Printable)

Soft, spiced donut holes infused with apple cider and finished in cinnamon sugar, perfect for cozy mornings.

# What you'll need:

→ Donut Holes

01 - 1 cup apple cider
02 - 2 cups all-purpose flour
03 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
09 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
10 - 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
11 - 1 large egg
12 - 1/3 cup whole milk
13 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

14 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
15 - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
16 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

# Method:

01 - Pour apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced to 1/4 cup, approximately 10 to 12 minutes. Allow to cool completely.
02 - In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well combined.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk the cooled reduced apple cider, melted butter, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, egg, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and homogeneous.
04 - Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture.
05 - Set the air fryer to 350°F and preheat. Line the air fryer basket with parchment paper or lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.
06 - Using a small cookie scoop or floured hands, portion the dough into 1-inch balls, each approximately 1 tablespoon in volume. Arrange them in the air fryer basket with adequate space between each ball.
07 - Air fry the donut holes for 7 to 8 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cook in batches if necessary.
08 - While still warm, brush each donut hole with melted butter and roll in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, prepared in a small bowl.
09 - Serve the donut holes warm or at room temperature for optimal flavor and texture.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses apple cider right from the orchard or store
  • Ready in about 30 minutes
  • No deep fryer or oil splatters
  • Kid and crowd favorite at fall breakfasts
  • Easy to make dairy-free with simple swaps
02 -
  • High in cozy autumn flavors from real apple cider
  • Quick to prepare and air-fried with less oil
  • Freezer friendly for easy make-ahead treats
03 -
  • Be patient reducing the cider for true apple punch
  • Do not overmix for soft cloudlike insides
  • Brush donut holes while hot so the cinnamon sugar sticks for the perfect crisp sweet crust

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