Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and reduce by half, until it measures about 1/4 cup. This should take 8-10 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Using a 1-inch round cookie cutter, cut a hole in the center of each Hawaiian roll. Keep both the donuts and the donut holes. Melt the unsalted butter in a small microwave-safe bowl or saucepan.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating. Set aside.
- Once the reduced apple cider is cool enough to handle, whisk it together with the sifted powdered sugar in another small bowl until a smooth glaze forms. Adjust consistency with a tiny bit more powdered sugar if too thin, or a few drops of water if too thick.
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the tops and bottoms of the Hawaiian roll donuts and donut holes lightly with the melted butter. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Place the brushed donuts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and slightly crisp. Donut holes will cook faster, usually 2-3 minutes. Remove and place on a wire rack set over parchment paper or a baking sheet.
- While the donuts are still warm, dip each donut (and donut hole) into the apple cider glaze, ensuring both sides are coated. Let any excess drip off.
- Immediately after glazing, roll the donuts in the cinnamon sugar mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Place them back on the wire rack to set slightly.
- Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts!
Notes
Pro Tips for Making This Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts
Baking these delightful treats should be a joy, not a chore! Here are some of my tried-and-true tips to ensure your Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts turn out perfectly every time, just like the ones my family adores.
My Secret Trick: I always make sure to reduce the apple cider slowly and patiently. This isn’t a race! Letting it simmer gently allows the flavors to truly concentrate, creating that rich, autumnal depth that makes these donuts so special.
When air frying, resist the urge to overcrowd the basket. Giving each donut enough space ensures they cook evenly and get that beautiful golden crispness without becoming soggy. It’s better to work in batches than to compromise on texture.
For the glaze, make sure your powdered sugar is well-sifted. This prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth coating that clings perfectly to the warm donuts. A smooth glaze is a happy glaze, I always say!
Don’t be shy with the cinnamon sugar coating! A generous roll in that fragrant mixture after glazing truly elevates the flavor and texture of these delightful Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts, adding that comforting spice everyone loves.
Fun Variations for Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts
One of the greatest joys of baking is getting creative in the kitchen, and these Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts are wonderfully adaptable! Here are a few ideas to spark your imagination and make them truly your own.
Spice it Up!
Beyond cinnamon, consider adding a pinch of ground nutmeg or a tiny dash of allspice to your apple cider reduction for an even deeper, more complex autumnal flavor. My friend Sarah loves when I add a tiny bit of ginger for a little zing!
Drizzle Delights
Once glazed, a light drizzle of melted white chocolate or a swirl of caramel sauce would be absolutely divine. It adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful presentation. My niece always asks for a little sprinkle of sea salt flakes on top of the caramel — she’s got good taste!
Nutty Toppings
For a textural crunch, finely chopped pecans or walnuts, lightly toasted, would be a fantastic addition. Sprinkle them over the glazed donuts while they’re still slightly tacky.
What to Serve With Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts
These delightful Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts are truly a treat on their own, but a little something alongside can elevate the whole experience into a cozy moment.
I love serving them with a steaming mug of hot apple cider, perhaps spiced with a cinnamon stick, to truly embrace those autumn flavors. It’s a simple pairing that always feels just right. For a bit of a contrast, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melting gently over a warm donut is pure indulgence. My mom always said a little bit of creaminess makes any sweet treat even better! And for those who enjoy a warm beverage with their dessert, a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a comforting Earl Grey tea would be perfect alongside these sweet and spiced donuts.
How to Store Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts
Keeping your Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts fresh and delicious is key to enjoying them for more than just one sitting! Here’s how I like to store them to preserve their wonderful texture and flavor.
Fridge Storage
Once cooled, store your donuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. If you’ve used a cream cheese glaze or a topping that requires refrigeration, then keep them in the fridge. My personal tip is to place a piece of parchment paper between layers to prevent them from sticking together.
Reheating Tips
If you find your Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts have lost a bit of their initial warmth and softness, a quick 30-second zap in the microwave can bring them back to life. Alternatively, a few minutes in a preheated air fryer at 300°F (150°C) will crisp them up beautifully. A fresh dusting of powdered sugar after reheating always makes them feel brand new!
Nutritional Benefits
While these Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts are certainly a sweet indulgence, they also offer a delightful way to enjoy some wholesome ingredients. The apple cider brings a touch of natural fruit goodness, and the simple combination of sugar and cinnamon, when used thoughtfully, creates a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing in its joy. It’s all about finding that lovely balance in our sweet creations.
FAQs
Faq 1
Can I make Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the apple cider reduction a day in advance. Air fry and glaze the donuts closer to serving for the freshest taste and best texture.
Faq 2
What if I don’t have an air fryer for these Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts?
You can bake them! Arrange the prepared donut pieces on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Faq 3
Can I use regular bread for these Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts?
For the best results, stick with King’s Hawaiian Sweet Rolls. Their unique sweetness and soft, airy texture are what make these Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts so exceptional.
Faq 4
How can I make the apple cider flavor stronger in my Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts?
To intensify the apple cider flavor, you can reduce the cider even further, almost to a syrup, before incorporating it into the glaze. This creates a concentrated burst of apple goodness.
Conclusion
These Apple Cider Hawaiian Roll Donuts are more than just a recipe; they’re an invitation to embrace the joyful, comforting spirit of home baking. From the simple act of reducing apple cider to the delightful aroma filling your kitchen, every step is a sweet reminder that with a little love and patience, even the simplest ingredients can transform into something truly magical. So, gather your loved ones, share these warm, spiced treats, and create those cherished memories that only homemade desserts can bring. Happy baking, my friends!