These Sourdough Discard Apple Cider Donuts are fluffy and flavorful, perfect for fall! They combine the tartness of apple cider with the tangy goodness of sourdough.
Who doesn’t love a warm donut? I enjoy these for breakfast or a sweet snack. Just remember to save some cider for a cozy drink on the side! 🥤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Discard: The star of this recipe! Using unfed discard gives your donuts a nice tang. If you don’t have any, you can substitute with 1 cup of plain yogurt or buttermilk for a different flavor twist.
Apple Cider: This adds sweetness and helps keep the donuts moist. If apple cider is out of season, you can use apple juice, but it might be a bit sweeter, so adjust sugar accordingly.
All-Purpose Flour: This is the base for the donuts. For a gluten-free version, feel free to substitute with a gluten-free baking mix, ensuring it has xanthan gum for better texture.
Spices: The ground cinnamon and nutmeg create warm flavors. You can mix it up with pumpkin pie spice if you want an extra flare or skip the nutmeg if you’re not a fan.
How Do You Ensure Your Donuts Are Perfectly Fried?
Frying donuts can be tricky, but these simple tips can help you achieve great results! The right oil temperature is crucial; aim for 350°F (175°C).
- Use a candy thermometer to keep track of the oil temperature throughout frying.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry a few donuts at a time to maintain the temperature and cook evenly.
- Check for doneness by looking for a golden brown color and slight puffing up. Let them drain on paper towels afterward.
With a little patience and attention, you’ll have delicious apple cider donuts that are sure to impress! Enjoy your baking!
Delicious Sourdough Discard Apple Cider Donuts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed)
- 1 cup apple cider
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 10-12 minutes for frying. Allow for some cooling time before serving. In total, you can have fresh, warm donuts ready in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Whisk together the sourdough discard, apple cider, egg, and melted butter until everything is well combined. It should look smooth! This mixture gives your donuts their delicious, tangy flavor.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This helps distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly in your dough!
3. Combine the Mixtures:
Now, gently add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being cautious not to overmix. The dough should feel soft but manageable. If it’s too sticky, sprinkle in a bit more flour until it’s workable.
4. Shape the Donuts:
On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter (or two round cutters of different sizes) to cut out your donut shapes. Don’t forget to save the holes – they can be delicious too!
5. Heat the Oil for Frying:
In a heavy skillet or deep fryer, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for frying! You want to ensure your donuts cook through without burning.
6. Fry the Donuts:
Carefully add the donuts in batches to the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown. Remember not to overcrowd the pan—the donuts need space to fry evenly!
7. Drain the Oil:
Using a slotted spoon, lift the donuts out of the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels. This helps absorb any excess oil.
8. Sweeten and Serve:
In a shallow bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for coating. While the donuts are still warm, gently toss each one in the cinnamon sugar until coated. Let them cool slightly, then serve warm. They’re perfect with a cup of hot apple cider or coffee on the side!
The combination of tangy sourdough and sweet apple cider creates deliciously fluffy donuts that are a joy to bite into. Enjoy every delicious morsel!
Can I Use Active Sourdough Starter Instead of Discard?
Yes, you can use active sourdough starter! Just make sure you reduce the liquid slightly since the starter contains moisture. Aim for about 3/4 cup of apple cider in that case
What Should I Do If My Donut Dough Is Too Sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, simply dust your work surface and your hands with a little extra flour while shaping. This will help you manage the dough better without overworking it.
Can I Bake These Donuts Instead of Frying Them?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the donuts on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for around 12-15 minutes until they’re golden brown. You can still toss them in cinnamon sugar for that classic flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Donuts?
Store any leftover donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months; just thaw before enjoying!