Apple Cider Mochi Donuts

Apple Cider Mochi Donuts are a delightful fusion of traditional autumn flavours and the unique, chewy texture of mochi. These baked treats combine the warmth of spiced apple cider with the soft, bouncy consistency characteristic of mochi, all finished with a generous coating of cinnamon sugar. Perfect for those seeking a gluten-free dessert that encapsulates the essence of fall.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique Texture: The use of sweet rice flour imparts a distinctive chewiness, setting these donuts apart from conventional varieties.
• Rich Flavour: Concentrated apple cider ensures a deep, authentic apple taste in every bite.
• Healthier Option: Being baked rather than fried, these donuts offer a lighter alternative without compromising on flavour.
• Gluten-Free: Ideal for those with gluten sensitivities, thanks to the incorporation of sweet rice flour.
• Seasonal Delight: The combination of apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg captures the quintessential flavours of autumn.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cups apple cider
• 2 cups sweet rice flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• ¾ cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

1. Prepare Apple Cider Concentrate: In a saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium-low heat until it reduces to ½ cup, approximately 40–45 minutes. Allow it to cool for 20 minutes.
2. Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two donut pans and set aside.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, mix the sweet rice flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted butter, vanilla extract, whole milk, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Add the eggs and whisk until fully combined. Stir in the cooled apple cider concentrate.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually sift the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula until a smooth batter forms.
6. Fill Donut Pans: Transfer the batter into a piping bag or a resealable plastic bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe the batter into the prepared donut pans, filling each cavity about ¾ full. Tap the pans gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
7. Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 9–11 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean.
8. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating: While the donuts are baking, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
9. Coat Donuts: Once baked, remove the donuts from the oven and immediately toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly.
10. Cool: Transfer the coated donuts to a wire rack and allow them to cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Approximately 15 donuts
• Preparation Time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour and 20 minutes

Variations

• Spice Blend: Incorporate additional spices such as cardamom or cloves for a more complex flavour profile.
• Glaze Option: Instead of cinnamon sugar, drizzle the cooled donuts with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider.
• Muffin Alternative: If a donut pan is unavailable, use a muffin tin. Adjust the baking time to 40–45 minutes, monitoring for doneness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cooled donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm the donuts in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore their texture.

FAQs

What is sweet rice flour, and where can I find it?

Sweet rice flour, also known as glutinous rice flour, is made from sticky rice and is essential for achieving the chewy texture in mochi donuts. It is commonly available in Asian grocery stores and some health food stores.

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of sweet rice flour?

Using all-purpose flour will result in a different texture, lacking the characteristic chewiness of mochi. For authentic results, it is recommended to use sweet rice flour.

Is it necessary to reduce the apple cider?

Reducing the apple cider concentrates its flavour, ensuring a pronounced apple taste in the donuts. Skipping this step may lead to a subtler flavour.

Can I make these donuts dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk, such as almond or oat milk, to make the recipe dairy-free.

How do I prevent the donuts from sticking to the pan?

Ensure the donut pans are well-greased before adding the batter. Allow the donuts to cool slightly before gently removing them to prevent sticking.

Can I freeze these donuts?

Yes, the baked and cooled donuts can be frozen in an airtight container for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven before serving.

What can I use if I don’t have a piping bag?

A resealable plastic bag with a corner snipped off can serve as an alternative to a piping bag for filling the donut pans.

How can I tell when the donuts are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into a donut; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the donuts are done. The tops should also spring back when lightly pressed.

Can I add apple pieces to the batter?

Adding small, finely chopped apple pieces can enhance the texture and flavour. Ensure the pieces are small to maintain the structural integrity of the donuts.

What type of apple cider is best for this recipe?

Use a high-quality, unfiltered apple cider for the most robust flavour. Avoid using apple juice, as it lacks the depth of flavour found in cider.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Mochi Donuts offer a delightful twist on traditional autumn treats, combining the rich flavours of spiced apple cider with the unique texture of mochi. Their gluten-free composition and baked preparation make them a healthier alternative to conventional donuts. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or reheated for a quick snack, these donuts are sure to become a seasonal favourite.

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