Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts are a delightful twist on a classic fall treat. Imagine biting into a soft, fluffy donut that’s subtly sweet with the warming spices of cinnamon and the fresh flavor of apple cider. These donuts come out perfectly golden and airy, offering a comforting taste of autumn in every bite. There’s something incredibly rewarding about making these at home, surrounded by the cozy scent of apple cider wafting through your kitchen.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts

The best part? These throw-together donuts require minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients. Who knew that air fryers could create such a sweet masterpiece? If you’re craving something that feels special, yet simple enough for a weekday breakfast or a fun dessert, then look no further! Trust me, once you try these Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts, you’ll want to whip up batch after batch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: These donuts are ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for a last-minute treat!
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of warm apple cider and cinnamon gives these donuts a cozy, nostalgic taste.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Soft, fluffy, and beautifully coated in cinnamon sugar, they look as good as they taste.
Flexible Serving: Enjoy them for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or even for dessert after dinner.
Diet-Friendly Options: Substitute with gluten-free biscuits for a delicious alternative!

Ingredients You’ll Need

1/2 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the donuts and is used in the cinnamon sugar coating.
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: This gives your donuts that beloved warm spice flavor.
16.3 ounce can flaky biscuits: This is the base for your donuts, making them super quick to prepare. Feel free to switch to a non-branded or store-brand option if preferred.
1 cup apple cider: Brings that deep apple flavor; reduces down for an irresistible glaze.

How to Make Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts

Prepare Your Space: Line a tray with parchment paper or set out a wire rack to hold the finished donuts.
Mix Your Sugar: In a shallow bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon, and then set it aside. This will be your magical coating.
Simmer the Cider: Pour 1 cup apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer it over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll want it to reduce slightly, enhancing the flavor. Once done, set aside.
Shape the Donuts: Open your can of flaky biscuits. Carefully separate the biscuits. Use a bottle cap or anything small and round to punch out the centers, forming a classic donut shape.
Prepare Your Air Fryer: Line your air fryer basket with a parchment round or give it a quick spray with oil to prevent sticking.
First Batch: Work in batches and add four donuts to the air fryer in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. If necessary, remove one to avoid overcrowding.
Air Fry: Set your air fryer to 350°F and air fry for 3 minutes. Then, carefully flip the donuts over and fry for another 3 minutes until golden brown.
Transfer and Repeat: Carefully transfer your hot donuts to the prepared tray or wire rack and repeat with the remaining dough.
Brush and Coat: While the donuts are still warm, brush both sides with the reduced apple cider, then toss them into the cinnamon sugar mix. Coat each donut well for that delectable finish.
Serve: Enjoy these treats fresh and warm, because they truly are at their best when right out of the air fryer!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover donuts at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. If you wish to freeze them, wrap each donut in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 3 minutes to refresh their warmth and texture.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid Overcrowding: Always keep your donuts spaced evenly in the air fryer basket to ensure they cook properly.
Temperature Quality: Use room temperature apple cider for better flavor infusion when simmering.
Timing Matters: Keep an eye on the donuts during the last minute of cooking; you want them lightly golden and soft in the middle.
Experiment with Flavors: For a twist, consider adding a little nutmeg or allspice to your cinnamon mix for an extra flavor dimension.
Make Ahead: Prepare the cinnamon sugar ahead of time for an even quicker assembly when you’re ready to serve.

Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts are not just a treat; they are a warm embrace on a chilly day. Their light, fluffy texture and cozy apple flavor make them a delightful snack or breakfast option that can be whipped up in no time. So why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and enjoy these delicious donuts. You’ll find that their charm doesn’t just lie in their taste but also in the warmth of sharing them with your loved ones.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use homemade dough instead of canned biscuits?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite biscuit or dough recipe, feel free to use it. The baking time may vary, so keep an eye on the donuts as they cook and adjust accordingly.

What can I serve with these donuts?

These donuts pair beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or spiced cider. You could also serve them with a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce for dipping!

How do I know when the donuts are done?

The donuts are ready when they are golden brown and have puffed slightly in the air fryer. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, not sticky.

Can I make these donuts vegan?

Yes! Substitute the flaky biscuits with a vegan version and use a plant-based butter or oil for brushing instead of apple cider to coat. They’ll still be delicious!

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Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts

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Author: Peter
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 21 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Desserts & Appetizers
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

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Description

These Air Fryer Apple Cider Donuts are delightfully flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for any occasion. Made with simple ingredients, they offer a cozy taste of autumn with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
16.3 ounce can flaky biscuits
1 cup apple cider

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Instructions

Prepare a tray with parchment paper or set out a wire rack for the finished donuts.
In a shallow bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon together and set aside.
Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium-high heat until slightly reduced, then set aside.
Open the biscuit dough and separate the biscuits. Use a small circular object to cut out the centers, creating donut shapes.
Line the air fryer basket with parchment or spray it lightly with oil.
Place four donuts in a single layer in the air fryer, ensuring they are not touching.
Air fry at 350°F for 3 minutes, flip, and then air fry for another 3 minutes.
Move the donuts to the tray or wire rack and repeat with the remaining dough.
While warm, brush the donuts with the reduced apple cider and coat in the cinnamon sugar mixture for the final touch.
Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

Notes

Ensure the donuts are well-coated in cinnamon sugar for the best flavor.
Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container.