Apple cider donuts are a quintessential fall treat, but for those who follow a gluten-free diet, enjoying these delicious pastries can be a challenge. Fortunately, with the right ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create gluten-free apple cider donuts that are just as flavorful and satisfying as their traditional counterparts. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step recipe for making gluten-free apple cider donuts that are sure to impress your family and friends.
Gluten-free baking has come a long way in recent years, and with the availability of high-quality gluten-free flours, it’s easier than ever to create baked goods that are both delicious and safe for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Apple cider donuts are a perfect example of a treat that can be easily adapted to a gluten-free diet without sacrificing flavor or texture. The key is to use a blend of gluten-free flours that mimic the structure and texture of traditional wheat flour.
Before you start baking, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free all-purpose flour | 2 cups |
| Baking powder | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Baking soda | 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 tsp |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1/2 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Apple cider (reduced) | 1/2 cup |
| Buttermilk | 1/4 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| For the coating: | |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
Start by reducing the apple cider. Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to simmer until it has reduced to about 1/2 cup. This will concentrate the flavor of the cider, giving your donuts a more intense apple taste. Set the reduced cider aside to cool.
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Make sure all the dry ingredients are well combined.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the reduced apple cider and buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in dense donuts.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray. Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the donuts comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
While the donuts are cooling, prepare the coating. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Once the donuts are cool enough to handle, dip each one into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Yes, you can experiment with different gluten-free flours, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary. A blend of gluten-free flours, such as rice flour, almond flour, and tapioca flour, often works best for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a non-dairy milk in place of buttermilk. Just be sure to choose a milk that complements the flavor of the apple cider.
Store the donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the donuts for up to 2 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Gluten-free apple cider donuts are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of dietary restrictions. With the right ingredients and a little bit of effort, you can create donuts that are moist, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. Whether you’re making them for a fall gathering or just to satisfy a craving, these gluten-free apple cider donuts are sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a batch of these delicious donuts!