If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a warm, pillowy treat bursting with autumnal flavors, this Apple Cider Beignets with Caramel and Spiced Sugar Recipe will absolutely blow you away. These delightful French-inspired doughnuts are steeped in fragrant apple cider and apple pie spice, fried to a perfect golden brown, and luxuriously coated with a sparkling spiced sugar blend. To top it all off, they’re served alongside a sticky, buttery caramel sauce that brings that perfect balance of sweet and spice. Whether it’s a crisp fall morning or a cozy weekend brunch, these beignets make for an irresistible indulgence that tastes like a hug in dessert form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows baking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface in a kitchen setting. There are two large clear glass jars filled with white flour and sugar, each with a blue and white patterned spoon inside. In front of these jars are six red apples with smooth skin, and four white eggs placed near the apples. A wrapped block of yellow butter labeled

Every ingredient in this Apple Cider Beignets with Caramel and Spiced Sugar Recipe plays a starring role in crafting extraordinary flavor and texture. From the tangy sweetness of apple cider to the rich warmth of apple pie spice, each one makes these beignets impossible to resist.

Apple cider (3 1/2 cups total): Provides a fruity, slightly tart base, essential for that classic autumnal flavor in both dough and caramel.
Water (1 cup, lukewarm): Activates the yeast gently, ensuring a light and airy beignet dough.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Feeds the yeast and adds subtle sweetness to the dough.
Active dry yeast (1 package): The magical agent that makes the dough rise and transform into a fluffy delight.
Eggs (2): Bind the dough while enriching its flavor and texture.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
Apple pie spice (3 tbsp total, divided): Infuses every bite with cozy cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove notes.
Evaporated milk (1 cup): Adds creamy richness to the dough for tender beignets.
Unsalted butter, melted (1/2 cup + 1/2 cup cubed for caramel): Provides a luscious mouthfeel and depth in both dough and sauce.
Bread flour (7 cups): Gives structure and chewiness, the perfect foundation for soft beignets.
Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Mixed with spice to create the irresistible dusting coating.
Canola oil (4 quarts): For frying at the perfect temperature to get crispy exteriors and fluffy insides.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens and caramelizes the apple cider reduction for the sauce.
Heavy cream (1/4 cup): Makes the caramel sauce luxuriously smooth.

How to Make Apple Cider Beignets with Caramel and Spiced Sugar Recipe

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by bringing 1 1/2 cups of apple cider to a boil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Let it simmer until reduced by half—about 10 minutes—concentrating the flavor into a rich, syrupy essence. Then, remove from heat and allow it to cool completely; this reduction forms the bold flavor base for your dough.

Step 2: Activate the Yeast

In a medium bowl, combine lukewarm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Whisk lightly and let it rest for 10 minutes until foamy. This bubbling action means your yeast is active and ready to create those airy beignets everyone loves.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the cooled apple cider reduction, eggs, salt, 2 teaspoons of apple pie spice, evaporated milk, and melted butter. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir everything together until well combined. This flavorful liquid mix brings cohesion and warmth to the dough.

Step 4: Incorporate the Flour and Knead

Add half of the bread flour to the wet ingredients and gently stir with a wooden spoon. Then add the remaining flour and mix until a rough dough forms. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky. This process develops gluten and builds the strength your dough needs to rise beautifully.

Step 5: Proof the Dough

Lightly grease a large bowl and place your dough inside. Cover it with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel and let it rest in a warm spot for at least 2 hours. The dough will double in size as the yeast works its magic, creating that signature fluffy texture.

Step 6: Prepare the Spiced Sugar Dusting

While the dough is rising, mix the powdered sugar with the remaining tablespoon of apple pie spice in a small bowl. This aromatic mixture is what gives the beignets their irresistible finish right after frying.

Step 7: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a large skillet, bring 2 cups of apple cider to a boil and reduce until half remains, about 10 minutes. Stir in brown sugar and let it dissolve, cooking until the mixture darkens to a rich amber hue for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat briefly, then whisk in heavy cream. Gradually add cubed butter, whisking until silky smooth. Finish with a pinch of salt and keep warm. This sticky caramel is a game-changer—perfect for dipping or drizzling.

Step 8: Shape and Fry Your Beignets

Heat canola oil in a large pot to 350°F. On a floured surface, roll your dough into a 12-inch square and cut into 36 2-inch squares. Fry the dough pieces in small batches for about 1 minute per side until they puff up and turn light golden brown. Transfer to a wire rack and immediately toss them in your spiced sugar. Serve hot with that warm caramel sauce for dipping.

How to Serve Apple Cider Beignets with Caramel and Spiced Sugar Recipe

A white plate is filled with eleven square, light brown pastries, each topped with a fine dusting of white powdered sugar. The pastries have a soft, fluffy texture with smooth sides and slightly rounded edges. They are arranged closely together, covering the plate evenly. The background shows a white marbled surface with a soft focus. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of charm, dust the beignets with a little extra powdered sugar just before serving, or sprinkle some finely chopped toasted pecans on the caramel for crunch. Fresh apple slices on the side enhance the cider vibe and add a refreshing crispness.

Side Dishes

Pair these beignets with a warm cup of spiced chai tea, hot apple cider, or even a robust coffee. For a brunch spread, fresh fruit salad or creamy yogurt with honey works beautifully alongside these sweet treats to balance richness with brightness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the beignets in rustic baskets lined with parchment paper for an inviting, casual vibe or stack them on a pretty serving platter with ramekins of caramel sauce for dipping. For gatherings, set up a DIY station where guests can dust or drizzle as they please. It’s fun, interactive, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any beignets left after your feast, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. They’re best enjoyed warm, so try to consume leftovers quickly to keep their tender texture intact.

Freezing

You can freeze unfried dough squares by placing them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready, let thaw and proof before frying. Fried beignets don’t freeze as well, as they lose their crispness upon reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftover beignets gently in a warm oven at 300°F for 5 to 7 minutes to revive their crispy exterior. Alternatively, a quick zap in the microwave for 15 seconds works in a pinch but may soften the texture.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular whole milk for evaporated milk, but evaporated milk provides a deeper, creamier richness that enhances the dough’s tenderness and flavor.

What if I don’t have apple pie spice? Can I make my own?

Absolutely! A simple mix of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves or allspice works perfectly as a homemade apple pie spice substitute.

How do I know when the oil is at the right temperature for frying?

Using a thermometer is the best way to ensure the oil is at 350°F. If you don’t have one, drop a small piece of dough into the oil; it should bubble actively and rise to the surface within seconds without browning too fast.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe relies on bread flour to develop gluten and structure, so substituting with gluten-free flour blends may yield a denser beignet. If experimenting, look for gluten-free blends suited for yeast baking and expect some texture differences.

How do I prevent the beignets from absorbing too much oil while frying?

Maintain the oil temperature at a steady 350°F and avoid overcrowding the pot. Frying in small batches allows the beignets to cook quickly and evenly, reducing oil absorption and ensuring a light, crispy finish.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Beignets with Caramel and Spiced Sugar Recipe is one of my absolute favorites to make when the air turns crisp and the kitchen fills with cozy scents. The combination of warm spices, fluffy dough, and irresistible caramel is a match made in heaven that never fails to bring smiles. Whether you’re treating family, friends, or just yourself, I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s the perfect way to capture the spirit of the season and make every bite count.