As the leaves turn crimson and gold, I find myself dreaming about the cozy flavors of fall. There’s something irresistibly comforting about biting into a Fluffy Apple Pie Doughnut, a treat that marries the warm sweetness of spiced apples with a light, pillowy dough. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, these deep-fried delights are generously rolled in cinnamon sugar, turning every bite into a festive celebration! Not only are they a delicious way to kickstart your day, but they also fill your kitchen with an aroma that rivals any fall bakery. Who could resist the temptation to share these delightful doughnuts with family and friends? Ready to give your kitchen a warm, autumnal touch? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!
Why are these doughnuts irresistible?
Fall-Inspired Bliss: These Fluffy Apple Pie Doughnuts are the ultimate autumn treat, harmonizing sweet apples with warm spices.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for busy mornings!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for breakfast or a cozy dessert, these doughnuts bring joy to friends and family alike. Serve them warm with a scoop of ice cream for an even more indulgent experience!
Customizable Options: Feel free to experiment with fillings; try swapping for other fruits or adding a maple glaze for a unique twist.
Aroma of Comfort: The delicious scent of brown butter and spices wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting a taste!
Apple Pie Doughnuts Ingredients
For the Dough
• Active Dry Yeast – Provides rise and fluffiness to the dough; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
• Warm Apple Cider – Acts as a liquid base to activate the yeast and infuse apple flavor; use non-alcoholic cider for purity.
• Unsalted Butter (Browned) – Adds a nutty flavor and richness; be sure to brown it for extra depth.
• Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and promotes browning; can be substituted with your preferred sweetener.
• Large Egg + Egg Yolk – Contributes to structure and moisture in the dough; room temperature is best for thorough mixing.
• Whole Milk – Enhances tenderness and flavor; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
• Salt – Elevates overall flavors; don’t skip this as it balances sweetness.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds warm spice notes reminiscent of apple pie; allspice can be used as a substitute.
• Ground Cinnamon – Essential for flavoring both the doughnuts and their coating.
• All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the backbone of the dough, providing structure; gluten-free flour can work as a substitute.
• Frying Oil (e.g., Coconut Oil) – Needed for frying to achieve a golden-brown exterior; can use canola or vegetable oil.
For the Filling
• Large Apples – The star of the filling, providing sweetness and texture; Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work beautifully.
• Unsalted Butter (for Filling) – Used to sauté apples and add richness.
• White Sugar & Light Brown Sugar – Enhance sweetness and caramelization in the filling.
• Ground Cinnamon (for Filling) – A key spice that beautifully complements the apples.
• Apple Cider (for Filling) – Further enhances the apple flavor; a must for a luscious filling.
• All-Purpose Flour (for Filling) – Acts as a thickener for the apple mixture.
Coating
• Granulated Sugar & Cinnamon – For the final coating, providing sweetness and spice that makes each bite divine!
Get ready to embrace all the fall flavors with these scrumptious Apple Pie Doughnuts!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Fluffy Apple Pie Doughnuts
Step 1: Activate Yeast
In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of active dry yeast with 1 cup of warm apple cider. Let this mixture sit for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes frothy and bubbly, which indicates that the yeast is active. This step ensures your Fluffy Apple Pie Doughnuts will rise beautifully!
Step 2: Mix Dough
In your stand mixer, combine 1/2 cup of browned unsalted butter with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until thoroughly blended. Add in one large egg, one egg yolk, 1/2 cup of whole milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and the activated yeast mixture. Gradually stir in 3 cups of all-purpose flour until the dough is smooth, then slowly add remaining flour until you form a soft, pliable dough.
Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough into a greased bowl, covering it with a damp cloth to prevent drying. Place it in a warm area and allow it to rise for about 1 hour, or until it has tripled in size. This critical step for your Fluffy Apple Pie Doughnuts ensures that the dough develops a light, airy texture.
Step 4: Prepare for Frying
Once the dough has risen, gently deflate it on a floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/2 inch thick and use a doughnut cutter to cut out shapes. Place the cut doughnuts on a floured baking sheet, cover them, and let them rise again for 45-60 minutes until they become puffy and soft.
Step 5: Fry Doughnuts
In a deep pot, heat your frying oil (coconut oil works great) to 360°F. Carefully add the risen doughnuts to the hot oil, frying them for 1-2 minutes per side or until they are golden brown. Using a slotted spoon, remove them from the oil and roll each doughnut in a mixture of granulated sugar and cinnamon while they are still warm to coat them perfectly.
Step 6: Make Filling
For the filling, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add 2 to 3 large, diced apples along with 1/4 cup of white sugar, 1/4 cup of light brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Cook until the apples soften, about 5-7 minutes, then mix in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and a splash of apple cider to thicken. Let this delicious mixture cool slightly.
Step 7: Fill Doughnuts
Once the doughnuts are cool, prepare a pastry bag fitted with a small tip. Carefully poke a hole in the side of each doughnut and fill them with your luscious apple filling, squeezing gently until they are perfectly stuffed. Your Fluffy Apple Pie Doughnuts are now ready to be enjoyed, bursting with sweet apple goodness!
Make Ahead Options
These Fluffy Apple Pie Doughnuts are a fantastic choice for meal prep, making your mornings easier and sweeter! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply follow the mixing and first rise steps, then refrigerate the dough instead of letting it rise at room temperature. When you’re ready to fry, remove the dough from the fridge and let it rest for about 30 minutes to come to room temperature before shaping and the second rise. As for the apple filling, you can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days; just warm it slightly before filling the doughnuts to keep that delightful flavor intact. This way, you’ll enjoy fresh, homemade Fluffy Apple Pie Doughnuts with minimal effort on busy mornings!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Pie Doughnuts
Airtight Container: Keep your Apple Pie Doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours to maintain their fluffiness and flavor.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm again, pop the doughnuts in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Thawing: To thaw, place the frozen doughnuts in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before reheating. This helps retain the dough’s delightful texture.
What to Serve with Fluffy Apple Pie Doughnuts
Indulging in the sweet flavors of fall isn’t complete without the perfect accompaniments to your fluffy treat.
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Warm Cocoa: A rich, creamy cup of cocoa balances the sweetness of the doughnuts, creating a cozy sipping experience for chilly mornings.
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Maple Glaze: Drizzle over a doughnut for an extra layer of flavor—sweet, sticky, and reminiscent of autumnal breakfasts.
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Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting: This luscious and slightly tangy topping pairs beautifully with the sweetness of apple pie filling, enhancing each bite.
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Fresh Apple Slices: Crunchy, tart, and refreshing, fresh apple slices add a delightful crunch and complement the doughnuts’ flavor profile perfectly.
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Caramel Sauce Dip: A small bowl of warm caramel sauce for dipping turns the doughnut experience into a decadent treat, making family gatherings feel like a special occasion.
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Herbal Tea: A light, mint-infused herbal tea offers a refreshing counterpoint to the sweet richness of the doughnuts, perfect for a warm afternoon snack.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: This beloved fall drink’s warm spices harmonize with the doughnuts, making it a match made in autumn heaven.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: To elevate your doughnut experience, a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm, fluffy doughnuts.
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Coffee: A classic pairing, the rich, robust flavors of coffee beautifully complement the sweet cinnamon sugar coating and spiced filling.
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Cheese Platter: A mix of sharp cheese contrasts tantalizingly with the sugary doughnuts, creating a sophisticated combination that’s sure to impress at gatherings.
Expert Tips for Apple Pie Doughnuts
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Fresh Yeast Matters: Ensure your active dry yeast is fresh for the best rise and fluffiness in your doughnuts. Expired yeast can lead to flat results.
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Perfect Cider Temperature: Use warm apple cider, but not too hot, to activate the yeast. Too high temperatures can kill the yeast and ruin your dough.
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Don’t Overwork the Dough: After the first rise, handle your dough gently. Over-kneading can create dense doughnuts, losing that desirable fluffiness.
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Monitor Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to keep frying oil at 360°F. This ensures a crispy exterior without absorbing unnecessary grease.
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Cool Before Filling: Allow your doughnuts to cool slightly before filling them with the apple mixture. This prevents the filling from melting into the dough.
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Enjoy Them Fresh: While these Apple Pie Doughnuts are best enjoyed fresh, they can be stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Reheat for a delightful treat!
Apple Pie Doughnuts Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore your creativity with these Fluffy Apple Pie Doughnuts—before you know it, you’ll have a favorite twist!
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Fruit Swap: Use pears or cherries instead of apples for a juicy twist! The flavors blend beautifully with cinnamon, and it’s a delightful surprise for your taste buds.
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Maple Glaze: Instead of cinnamon sugar, top with a maple glaze! Whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and a splash of milk for a sweet, fall-inspired finish.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple filling for extra texture! Not only do they provide a delightful crunch, but they also bring a nutty richness to each bite.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute almond or oat milk and a dairy-free butter for a completely dairy-free option. Your doughnuts will still be tender and delicious without milk and butter.
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Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the filled doughnuts for an indulgent treat! This sweet addition takes the apple filling to the next level, making every bite a caramel-apple experience.
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Spice It Up: For a spicier kick, increase the cinnamon and nutmeg! A sprinkle of ground ginger or cardamom will elevate the warming flavors resembling your favorite apple pie.
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Gluten-Free Version: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend to adapt this recipe for a gluten-sensitive audience. This delightful treat will cater to everyone!
For even more delicious apple-centric dishes, check out my recipes for Pumpkin Pie Apples and Cranberry Apple Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes, bringing seasonal flavors to your table!
Apple Pie Doughnuts Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best apples for the filling?
When choosing apples, I recommend using varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for their balance of sweetness and tartness. Look for firm apples without any dark spots or blemishes to ensure they hold up during cooking. Fresh apples will enhance the flavor of your filling tremendously!
How should I store leftover doughnuts?
Keep any leftover Apple Pie Doughnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours. If you want to preserve them longer, you can refrigerate them, though the texture may slightly change. Just remember to reheat them in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds for a delightful taste revival!
Can I freeze Apple Pie Doughnuts?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the doughnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. They can last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or oven for the best results.
What should I do if my dough didn’t rise?
If your dough doesn’t rise, there could be a few reasons. Firstly, make sure your yeast is fresh and activated properly; it should be frothy when combined with warm (not hot) liquid. If the environment is too cold, find a warm spot for the dough to rise. Try placing it in an oven with the light on or near a sunny window. Remember, patience can be key here!
Are these doughnuts suitable for people with allergies?
These Apple Pie Doughnuts contain common allergens such as wheat (gluten) and dairy. If you need to make them more allergy-friendly, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use almond milk or a plant-based butter in place of dairy. Always double-check ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
What should I do if my filling is too runny?
If your apple filling turns out too runny, it’s likely that there was excess moisture from the apples or too little flour. To fix this, simply transfer the filling to a saucepan over medium heat, continuing to cook until some of the liquid evaporates, or add an extra tablespoon of flour while cooking to thicken it. Stir until you achieve your desired consistency, and let it cool before filling the doughnuts.
Delicious Apple Pie Doughnuts: Your New Fall Obsession
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of active dry yeast with 1 cup of warm apple cider. Let sit for about 5 minutes until frothy.
- In a stand mixer, combine 1/2 cup browned unsalted butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar. Add 1 large egg, 1 egg yolk, 1/2 cup whole milk, 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and the activated yeast mixture. Gradually stir in 3 cups of all-purpose flour until smooth.
- Transfer dough into a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let rise in a warm area for about 1 hour.
- Once risen, gently deflate dough on floured surface. Roll out to 1/2 inch thick and cut shapes with a doughnut cutter. Place on floured baking sheet and let rise for 45-60 minutes.
- Heat frying oil to 360°F. Carefully add risen doughnuts to hot oil, frying for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown. Roll each in sugar and cinnamon mixture while warm.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a skillet. Add 2-3 diced apples, 1/4 cup white sugar, 1/4 cup light brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Cook until apples soften, then mix in 2 tablespoons of flour and a splash of apple cider.
- Once doughnuts are cool, use a pastry bag to fill each with the apple mixture.
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