Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

These Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar are the ultimate cozy fall treat. Imagine biting into a warm, spiced donut that captures the essence of autumn in every mouthful. Baked instead of fried, these donuts combine rich brown butter and concentrated apple cider flavor, making them perfect for gatherings, weekend brunches, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth during the chilly months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of brown butter and apple cider creates a rich, nutty taste that enhances every bite.
• Baked Not Fried: Enjoy a healthier version of donuts without compromising on taste or texture.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve them warm with vanilla ice cream or drizzle with salted caramel for an extra treat.
• Perfect for Fall Occasions: These donuts are ideal for cozy evenings, fall gatherings, or any special occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Donut pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Donut pan: This specialized pan allows you to bake perfectly shaped donuts without frying.
• Mixing bowls: Using multiple bowls helps keep your ingredients organized and makes mixing easier.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for folding ingredients together without deflating your batter.

Ingredients

For the Donuts

• 1 cup apple cider (to be reduced)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (for browning)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For Topping (Optional)

• 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Pinch of flaky sea salt
• 1 – 2 tablespoons heavy cream (to thin if needed)
• Vanilla ice cream

How to Make Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Cider

Reduce the apple cider by simmering it over medium heat until it thickens slightly. This concentrates the flavor.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Continue cooking until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from the heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, whole milk, vanilla extract, reduced apple cider, and browned butter until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Gently fold with a rubber spatula until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Fill Donut Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your donut pan lightly. Use a piping bag or spoon to fill each cavity about 3/4 full with batter.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in a preheated oven for about 12 minutes or until donuts spring back when touched. Allow them to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Step 8: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow dish. Brush warm donuts with melted butter and roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly.

Step 9: Serve

Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with flaky sea salt if desired. Serve warm alongside vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable treat!

How to Serve Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

These Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts are delightful on their own, but there are plenty of creative ways to serve them. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy evening at home, these suggestions will enhance your experience.

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly complements the warm donuts, creating a delicious contrast in temperatures and flavors.

Drizzle with Salted Caramel Sauce

• Add a generous drizzle of salted caramel sauce over the donuts for an indulgent touch that balances sweetness and saltiness.

Serve with Fresh Fruit

• Accompany the donuts with sliced apples or pears for a refreshing side that enhances the apple flavor in the donuts.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange a variety of desserts, including brownies and cookies, alongside your donuts for an inviting dessert spread that caters to different tastes.

Enjoy with Hot Beverages

• Serve these donuts with hot cider, coffee, or tea for a cozy pairing that warms both body and soul.

Pack for Picnics

• These donuts are great for picnics! Pack them in an airtight container and enjoy them outdoors on a lovely fall day.

How to Perfect Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

To ensure your Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh apple cider: Freshly pressed apple cider gives the best flavor. Store-bought options can work but may lack depth.
• Brown the butter carefully: Watch your butter closely while browning. It should be nutty and fragrant but not burned.
• Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid overly dense donuts. Too much flour can affect the texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Gently fold ingredients together to keep the donuts light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough donuts.
• Cool before glazing: Let the donuts cool slightly before drizzling with glaze or coating with cinnamon sugar. This helps toppings adhere better.

Best Side Dishes for Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

These side dishes pair wonderfully with Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts, offering complementary flavors and textures.

1. Warm Spiced Apples: Sauté sliced apples in butter, cinnamon, and sugar for a warm topping that echoes the donut’s flavors.
2. Maple Pecan Granola: Crunchy granola adds texture and a hint of sweetness, making it a delightful addition to any breakfast spread.
3. Creamy Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast to the rich donuts.
4. Pumpkin Spice Muffins: These seasonal muffins bring additional fall flavors to your table, creating a festive atmosphere.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can balance sweetness beautifully—consider brie or aged cheddar for great pairings.
6. Chai Tea Latte: The spices in chai tea complement the cinnamon flavor of your donuts while providing warmth on cool days.
7. Chocolate Chip Cookies: For those who love chocolate, these classic cookies add variety alongside your apple cider treats.
8. Butternut Squash Soup: A bowl of creamy soup provides warmth and comfort, making it perfect for pairing during colder months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common mistakes is essential for perfect results.

• Using unmeasured ingredients: Always measure your ingredients accurately. A scale or measuring cups can ensure you use the correct amounts, leading to better texture and taste.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to dense donuts. Gently fold in the dry ingredients to keep them light and fluffy.
• Not reducing the apple cider: Reducing apple cider intensifies its flavor. Skipping this step can lead to bland donuts. Boil the cider down to concentrate its sweetness before using it in your recipe.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated properly. An incorrect temperature can result in uneven baking, affecting the final product’s rise and texture.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before coating them in cinnamon sugar. If they are too hot, the sugar won’t stick well, leading to less flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep at room temperature if consuming within a day; refrigerate for longer freshness.

Freezing Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

• Place in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individually for about 10-15 seconds; watch closely to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions related to Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar that may help you as you bake!

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it’s suitable for baking and has binding properties.

How do I add more apple flavor?

You can incorporate finely chopped apples into the batter or use apple pie spice instead of cinnamon for an extra punch of flavor.

What is brown butter, and how do I make it?

Brown butter is made by cooking unsalted butter until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma. Simply melt butter over medium heat until it bubbles and turns golden, stirring frequently.

How do I store leftover donuts?

Store leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage.

Can these donuts be topped differently?

Absolutely! Consider drizzling with chocolate glaze or icing instead of caramel sauce for a different sweet treat experience.

Final Thoughts

These Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or enjoying a cozy morning at home, these baked treats will surely satisfy your cravings. Feel free to customize them with different toppings or spices to make them uniquely yours!