Air Fryer Apple Cider Donut Holes: Your New Sweet Obsession

Name: Air Fryer Apple Cider Donut Holes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup apple cider; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 2/3 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

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Who doesn’t enjoy quick and tasty treats? Air fryer apple cider donut holes are a delight, easy to whip up in just 10 minutes at 360°F. Simply mix the ingredients, shape them into balls, and cook in the air fryer. Trust me, it’s straightforward and delicious!

Perfect for a quick snack or a festive fall gathering, these donut holes embody simplicity and deliciousness. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned cook, you’ll find that making homemade donut holes in the air fryer is a straightforward process that yields delectable results every time.

Ingredients Needed for Apple Cider Donut Holes

To create these delightful donut holes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup apple cider
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2/3 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk

For coating:

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Essential Equipment for This Recipe

To ensure the best results when making these donut holes, it’s crucial to have the right equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

Air fryer: Any model will work, but ensure it has at least a 4-quart capacity for best airflow and space.
Silicone donut hole molds: These help shape your donut holes perfectly and are safe to use in the air fryer.
Mixing bowls: A variety of sizes for different ingredients.
Whisk and spatula: For mixing your batter and ensuring it’s smooth and well-combined.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients.

How to Make Donut Holes in an Air Fryer

Making donut holes in an air fryer is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps for best results:

Reduce the Apple Cider: Start by simmering the apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until it’s reduced to about 1/4 cup. This concentrates the flavor and should take about 20 minutes. Let it cool.

Reducing apple cider on stove for donut recipe

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Whisking dry ingredients for apple cider donut holes

Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and the reduced apple cider.

Combining wet ingredients including apple cider and eggs

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F. If your model requires preheating, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Shape Donut Holes: Using a small scoop or spoon, form the batter into balls. You can lightly grease your hands with oil to prevent sticking.

Shaping and arranging apple cider donut holes in air fryer basket

Cook: Place the donut holes in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. Cook for about 4 minutes, then flip each donut hole and cook for an additional 4 minutes.

Coat the Donut Holes: Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. While the donut holes are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar to coat evenly.

Tossing freshly air fried donut holes in cinnamon sugar

Essential Note: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

These homemade air fryer donut holes are best enjoyed fresh and warm, providing a delicious, quick treat with the delightful flavors of fall.

Apple Cider Donut Holes Nutritional Information

For those interested in the nutritional aspects of these apple cider donut holes, here’s a breakdown per serving:

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 donut hole (24 donut holes)

Amount % Daily Value*

Calories 100

Total Fat 2g 3%

Saturated Fat 1g 5%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 18mg 6%

Sodium 58mg 2%

Potassium 34mg 1%

Total Carbohydrate 18g 6%

Dietary Fiber 0.5g 2%

Sugars 9g

Protein 2g 4%

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Tips and Tricks

When making apple cider donut holes, a few expert tips can ensure perfect results:

Batter Consistency: The batter should be thick enough to hold its shape but moist enough to create a tender interior. If it’s too dry, add a tablespoon more buttermilk; if too wet, add a bit more flour.
Preventing Stickiness: Lightly grease the air fryer basket and the silicone molds (if using) with cooking spray or a brush of oil. This helps in easy removal without breaking the donut holes.
Ingredient Temperatures: Use room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and buttermilk, for a smoother, more uniform batter.

Substitutions:

If you don’t have buttermilk, mix a tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice with a cup of milk and let it stand for 5 minutes.
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy cooked donut holes that are fluffy and flavorful every time.

Apple Cider Donut Holes Variations

Understanding different flavors can add an exciting twist to these apple cider donut holes. Here are a few suggestions:

Pumpkin Spice: For a fall-inspired variation, add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the dry ingredients. This will complement the apple cider flavor beautifully.
Sugar Toppings: Instead of the classic cinnamon sugar, try using coconut sugar with a pinch of cardamom for a unique flavor profile. Alternatively, a light dusting of powdered sugar works well for those who prefer a less spiced sweetness.
Maple Glaze: Mix together 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup with 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons of milk for a smooth glaze. Dip the warm donut holes into the glaze for a decadent finish.

Apple Cider Donut Holes Storing and Serving Suggestions

To keep the donut holes fresh and maintain their flavor, follow these storage and serving tips:

Cooling: Allow the donut holes to cool completely on a wire rack before storing. This prevents condensation inside the container, which can make them soggy.
Storing: Store the donut holes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 5 days.
Reheating: To recapture their fresh-baked warmth and crispness, reheat the donut holes in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3-4 minutes. This is especially useful if they have been refrigerated.
Serving: Serve warm for the best texture and flavor. If desired, re-coat with cinnamon sugar or glaze just before serving to enhance their sweetness and visual appeal.

By following these variations and storage tips, you can enjoy your homemade air fryer donut holes in new and delicious ways every time.

FAQs on Air Fryer Apple Cider Donut Holes

Can I use a different type of apple cider in this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of apple cider; both sweet and hard cider work well, each adding its own unique flavor to the donut holes.

How long do apple cider donut holes last when stored properly?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, apple cider donut holes can last up to 2 days and up to 5 days when refrigerated.

Can I make these donut holes gluten-free or vegan?

Yes, for a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. To make them vegan, use a plant-based milk and egg substitute, and replace the butter with coconut oil.

What are the best toppings or glazes for apple cider donut holes?

Classic cinnamon sugar is popular, but for variety, try maple glaze, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a sprinkle of spiced sugar with nutmeg and clove.

How do I ensure my donut holes are fluffy and not dense?

Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh, do not overmix the batter, and make sure the ingredients are at room temperature before mixing to keep the donut holes light and fluffy.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for air fryer apple cider donut holes combines the simplicity of best air fryer recipes for breakfast with the delightful flavors of apple cider recipes.

The ease of preparation makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced cooks looking for quick air fryer desserts.

The delicious results promise to brighten any morning or provide a sweet, satisfying snack.

I would like you to try this recipe and see just how enjoyable and fuss-free air fryer cooking can be.

Feel free to ask questions or share your experiences in the comment section—I’m excited to hear how they turn out for you!

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Air Fryer Apple Cider Donut Holes

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Print Recipe

Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 24 donut holes 1x

Instructions

1. Reduce the Apple Cider: Start by simmering the apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until it’s reduced to about 1/4 cup. This concentrates the flavor and should take about 20 minutes. Let it cool.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk the melted butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and the reduced apple cider.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

5. Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 360°F. If your model requires preheating, follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

6. Shape Donut Holes: Using a small scoop or spoon, form the batter into balls. You can lightly grease your hands with oil to prevent sticking.

7. Cook: Place the donut holes in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching. Cook for about 4 minutes, then flip each donut hole and cook for an additional 4 minutes.

8. Coat the Donut Holes: Mix sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. While the donut holes are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar to coat evenly.