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Crispy Apple Cider Donut Holes Recipe with Easy Maple Brown Sugar Glaze

crispy apple cider donut holes - featured image

These crispy apple cider donut holes feature a subtle tang from the cider and a rich maple brown sugar glaze, perfect for cozy autumn mornings. They offer a crispy exterior with a soft, tender center and are quick and easy to make.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider
  • 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup (57 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups / 960 ml)
  • ½ cup (120 ml) pure maple syrup
  • ¼ cup (50 g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon (14 g) unsalted butter
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • A pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ cup granulated sugar.
  2. In another bowl, beat 2 large eggs with 1 cup apple cider and ¼ cup melted unsalted butter.
  3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently with a spatula until just combined; do not overmix.
  4. Pour about 4 cups vegetable oil into a deep pot or fryer and heat to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer to monitor.
  5. Using a small cookie scoop or spoon, carefully drop 1-inch balls of batter into the hot oil. Fry in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and puffed.
  6. Remove donut holes with a slotted spoon and place on a cooling rack over a baking sheet to drain excess oil.
  7. In a small saucepan, combine ½ cup pure maple syrup, ¼ cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, ½ teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Heat gently, stirring until sugar melts and mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
  8. While donut holes are still warm, dip or drizzle them with the maple brown sugar glaze. Let glaze set for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Keep oil temperature steady at 350°F to avoid greasy or undercooked donut holes. Fry in small batches and drain on a wire rack to maintain crispness. Do not overmix batter to keep donut holes light and tender. Glaze sticks best when donut holes are warm but not too hot.

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider donut holes, maple brown sugar glaze, fall recipe, fried donut holes, autumn treats, quick dessert, crispy donut holes