Caramel Apple Cider Donut Holes
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These caramel apple cider donut holes are the perfect treat to cozy up with on a crisp fall day. You’ll love how easy they are to make, and the warm, spiced flavors will make your kitchen smell amazing.
- Irresistible flavor combo: The mix of sweet caramel, tangy apple cider, and warm spices is pure autumn magic.
- Quick and simple: No fancy equipment needed—just a few bowls and a skillet to fry up these bite-sized delights.
- Crowd-pleasing: Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these donut holes disappear fast!
Recipe
These Caramel Apple Cider Donut Holes are a delicious fall treat, combining warm apple cider flavors with rich caramel glaze. Soft, spiced, and perfectly bite-sized, they’re ideal for cozy mornings or festive gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup apple cider (reduced to ¼ cup)
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup caramel sauce (for glaze)
- 1 tbsp cinnamon sugar (for coating)
Instructions:
- Reduce Apple Cider: Simmer ½ cup apple cider in a small saucepan until reduced to ¼ cup. Let cool.
- Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl.
- Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix sugar, reduced cider, buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and vanilla.
- Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, stirring until just combined.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Scoop batter into greased mini muffin tins. Bake 10–12 minutes until golden.
- Glaze: Dip warm donut holes in caramel sauce, then roll in cinnamon sugar.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cloves or allspice.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Time:
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 12 minutes
- Servings: 24 donut holes
Nutrition
These caramel apple cider donut holes are a delightful treat, but it’s important to be mindful of their nutritional content.
| Nutrition | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 150mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 14g |
| Protein | 2g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing these caramel apple cider donut holes with a warm cup of coffee—it’s the perfect mix of cozy and sweet. If you’re feeling festive, try matching them with a mug of spiced cider or pumpkin latte for that extra seasonal vibe. Trust me, it’s a combo that’ll make your taste buds happy!
Coffee Pairings
When I’m enjoying caramel apple cider donut holes, I always find they’re even better with the right cup of coffee. I love pairing them with espresso varieties that complement their sweet, spiced flavor. A smooth medium roast with caramel notes brings out the donut’s richness, while a dark roast adds a bold, earthy contrast. Single-origin coffees with citrusy or nutty flavor profiles also work wonders, balancing the sweetness. For creaminess, I’ll add a splash of oat milk. The warmth of the coffee against the donut’s soft, cinnamony center is pure bliss—like they were made for each other.
Seasonal Beverage Matches
Though caramel apple cider donut holes are delicious on their own, pairing them with the right seasonal drink can turn a simple treat into something special. I love sipping on warm apple cider alongside them—it’s a classic flavor pairing that feels like autumn in a cup. For a cozy twist, try hot mulled cider with cinnamon and cloves. If you’re feeling adventurous, a chai latte’s spiced warmth complements the caramel perfectly. And don’t forget hot chocolate with a dash of cinnamon—it’s a sweet, indulgent match. These seasonal drinks elevate the experience, making every bite and sip feel like a celebration.
