Doughnuts are a beloved treat in America, especially the classic fried and glazed varieties. However, apple cider doughnuts offer a delightful alternative. These sweet delights are infused with nutmeg and cinnamon, providing a rich apple flavor enhanced by reduced apple cider syrup. Unlike traditional doughnuts, these are baked, resembling a muffin batter, and rolled in cinnamon sugar after cooling. The result is a small, round cake with a crunchy exterior, embodying the warmth of autumn and appealing to both children and adults alike.
A Seasonal Favorite
For many on the East Coast, apple cider doughnuts signal the arrival of fall. New England, home to numerous apple orchards, is where this treat originated. Orchard owners began adding apple cider to their doughnuts during colonial times, a practical solution to prevent spoilage. This idea quickly became a regional staple.
Abby Soukup, a former reporter at The Gazette, recalls her childhood visits to Tougas Family Farm in Massachusetts. She remembers the excitement of waiting in line for the doughnuts, which often sold out quickly. “There’s something special in New England this time of year. Apple cider doughnuts aren’t as common here, but I enjoy visiting Happy Apple Farm in Penrose for their version,” Soukup shared.
A Nostalgic Creation
Liz Dean, owner of Cotton Blossom Caramel in Black Forest, Colorado, draws inspiration from her own childhood memories. She fondly remembers enjoying apple cider doughnuts with her mother at a small orchard in Nebraska. After experiencing the treats again in the Northeast, she decided to recreate them in her own sweet shop.
“I’m all about nostalgia and joy,” Dean said. “Those doughnuts were a part of my childhood.” Today, her Salted Caramel Apple Cider Doughnuts have become a bestseller at her shop. Dean incorporates melted caramels into her doughnut recipe, which adds a unique twist.
“I typically make around 500 cider doughnuts each week, but that can rise to 800 during busy times,” she noted.
Expanding the Menu
Mike House, co-owner of Black Forest Bistro, highly recommends Dean’s apple cider doughnuts. “They are delicious,” he said. After sampling them, it’s clear why they have gained such popularity.
Dean has also expanded her menu to feature seasonal variations, including gingerbread for Christmas and frosted cherry for Valentine’s Day. “It all started with my apple cider doughnuts, and now I have a unique flavor for every season,” she explained.
A Simple Baking Approach
Dean operates under a cottage food certificate, allowing her to prepare sweets in her home kitchen. She chose to bake cake-style doughnuts due to the lack of frying equipment. “Baked doughnuts are quicker to make and don’t require yeast, making them easy to adapt,” she said.
While specialized doughnut pans are available online, Dean suggests using muffin pans as an alternative. Simply sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top after baking instead of rolling them.
When it comes to apple cider, Dean initially used fresh cider but now orders apple cider syrup online to save time in production.
Try Making Your Own
For those inspired to create their own apple cider doughnuts, Dean’s recipe is a great starting point. Alternatively, seasonal offerings from chains like Dunkin’ Donuts can satisfy cravings. To taste fresh, homemade doughnuts, visit Black Forest Bistro or Dean’s shop at 6755 Shoup Road Cabin B in Black Forest, where you can purchase a dozen and enjoy the flavors of fall.
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