We’re in the midst of apple season – the one month of the year where you can visit nearby orchards and leave with gallons of sweet cider, handfuls of different colored apples and oily bags of sugary apple cider donuts. Not all of us are fortunate enough to make it to an apple orchard, so we take what we can get.

I went out to Apple Fest in Lincoln Square a few weeks ago and was able to get my hands on plenty of apple cider. Since there were no donuts in sight, I decided to make my own. As you might expect, donut holes are not the easiest thing to make from scratch. Cake donuts, instead of yeast, are much easier, yet you still have to deal with the frying either way. It uses a ton of oil, and your kitchen will smell like it, too.

Still, for a special occasion and to really take in the fall season, apple cider donuts are definitely worth making. They really are so delicious. You can always glaze your donuts with a cider and powdered sugar mixture, but for me the cinnamon sugar topping is just so traditional and deliciously crunchy. I love the addition of apple butter as well. It adds an additional apple flavor, and it’s also healthier than using all butter.

Just be sure to remove the donuts from your home soon after making them, or you will definitely eat them all. Depending on the size, this recipe should definitely make a few dozen. They won’t last long, so pair these with a nice cup of coffee or a beer and enjoy!

Read the full apple cider donuts recipe here >