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To make the apple cider donuts, you will need: - 2 cups apple cider - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup packed brown sugar - 2 teaspoons baking powder - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled - 2 large eggs - 1/2 cup whole milk These ingredients create a tasty base for your donuts. The apple cider adds a rich flavor that pairs well with the spices. For the ice cream layer, you will need: - 1 cup vanilla ice cream (softened slightly) This simple ingredient is key to making your ice cream sandwiches delightful. Softening the ice cream helps it spread easily. To add extra flavor and fun, consider these optional toppings: - 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating) - 1 teaspoon extra ground cinnamon (for coating) You can roll the donuts in this mix after baking. It gives them a sweet and crunchy finish. If you want to elevate your sandwich, drizzle some caramel sauce or add sprinkles on top. This recipe gives you room to get creative! For the full recipe, check the earlier sections. To make the apple cider reduction, start by pouring 2 cups of apple cider into a small saucepan. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the cider to a rolling boil. Once it boils, lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until it reduces to about 1 cup. This process takes about 20-25 minutes. When it thickens, remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly before using. Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps the donuts not stick. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients. Whisk together 1/2 cup of melted butter, 2 large eggs, the reduced apple cider, and 1/2 cup of whole milk. Pour this mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix. Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded dollops of dough onto the baking sheet. Space them about 2 inches apart. Lightly flatten each ball to form a donut shape. Bake in the oven for 10-12 minutes. They should look lightly golden and spring back when pressed. Let the donuts cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, move them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once the donuts cool, prepare the cinnamon-sugar coating. In a shallow dish, mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Roll the slightly cooled donuts in this mixture. This adds a nice crunch and flavor. Now it's time to assemble the ice cream sandwiches. Take one donut and place a scoop of softened vanilla ice cream on its underside. Use about 1 cup of ice cream for the sandwiches. Place a second donut on top and press gently to secure the ice cream. Finally, arrange the sandwiches on a plate. Place them in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This step helps the ice cream stay firm. After they set, serve the sandwiches chilled. Enjoy this delightful treat! For the full recipe, check the details above. To make soft donuts, use fresh ingredients. Ensure your baking powder is not expired. Mix wet and dry items gently. Overmixing makes donuts tough. Don't skip the cooling step after baking. Let them cool on a wire rack. This keeps them soft and fluffy. Rolling in cinnamon-sugar while still warm adds a nice touch. For great ice cream, choose high-quality vanilla. Let it soften at room temperature for 10–15 minutes. This makes it easier to scoop and spread. Try not to overwork the ice cream when assembling. Too much mixing can melt it. Aim for a thick layer between the donuts. Freeze the sandwiches for about 30 minutes after making them. This helps the ice cream set better. Create a lovely display with your ice cream sandwiches. Use a decorative platter for serving. Dust the top with extra cinnamon or powdered sugar. You can also drizzle caramel sauce over the sandwiches. This adds a sweet, inviting touch. Serve them chilled and enjoy! For the complete recipe, check the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can change the flavor of the ice cream to match your mood. Try adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for warmth. You can also mix in flavors like caramel or maple to bring out the apple taste. For a twist, use cinnamon ice cream. It adds a nice kick and complements the donuts perfectly. Switch up your toppings for fun! Drizzle caramel or chocolate sauce over the ice cream sandwiches. You can also add crushed nuts or sprinkles for texture. Want something fruity? Add apple slices or a spoonful of apple pie filling. Each bite will surprise your taste buds. If you need nut-free or gluten-free options, you can make these sandwiches work for you. Use gluten-free flour for the donuts. For the ice cream, check the label to ensure it's nut-free. Many brands offer safe options. You can enjoy these delicious treats without worry. For the full recipe, dive into the details above and create your own delicious versions! Store your homemade donuts in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, place parchment paper between layers. This prevents sticking and keeps them fluffy. For ice cream sandwiches, wrap each one in plastic wrap. This helps keep the ice cream from melting too fast. You can store them in the freezer for up to two weeks. They are best enjoyed fresh, but this method helps maintain their taste. If you have leftover components, you can freeze the donuts. Place them in a freezer bag, and they will last for about a month. Make sure to label the bag with the date. When you're ready to eat, thaw them at room temperature before making your ice cream sandwiches. For the full recipe, check out the delicious Apple Cider Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches. Apple cider donut ice cream sandwiches are a fun twist on a classic treat. They feature soft, sweet donuts made with apple cider and warm spices. Each sandwich holds a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures. The donuts are rolled in cinnamon-sugar for a crunchy finish. You can find the full recipe in the section above. Yes, you can use store-bought donuts if you're short on time. Just pick donuts that are soft and fresh. The flavor will still shine through with the ice cream. This option can save you time and effort while still giving you a tasty dessert. These ice cream sandwiches last about two weeks in the freezer. After that, they may lose their best taste or texture. To keep them fresh, wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap or foil. This helps prevent freezer burn and keeps them tasty for longer. In this article, I shared how to make delicious apple cider donut ice cream sandwiches. We covered the main ingredients needed, step-by-step instructions for making both the donuts and the ice cream, and helpful tips for the best results. I also offered variations for flavors and outlined storage tips for freshness. These sandwiches are a fun treat. You can easily customize them to suit your taste. Enjoy making them for yourself or to share with others!

Apple Cider Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches

Indulge in the ultimate fall treat with our Apple Cider Donut Ice Cream Sandwiches! These delightful desserts combine warm, cinnamon-sugar donuts with creamy vanilla ice cream for a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to impress.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups apple cider

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

2 large eggs

1/2 cup whole milk

1 cup vanilla ice cream (softened slightly)

1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

1 teaspoon extra ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions
 

Reduce the Cider: In a small saucepan, pour in the apple cider and heat it over medium heat. Bring the cider to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently until it reduces to about 1 cup. This process will take approximately 20-25 minutes. Once reduced, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.

    Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

      Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the slightly cooled melted butter, eggs, the reduced apple cider, and whole milk until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. Gradually pour this wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

        Shape the Donuts: Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded dollops of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading as they bake. Lightly flatten each dough ball with your fingers to form a donut shape.

          Bake the Donuts: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges look lightly golden and the donuts spring back when gently pressed. After baking, allow the donuts to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

            Coat with Sugar: In a shallow dish, combine the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and the extra ground cinnamon. Once the donuts are slightly cooled, roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until they are fully coated—the sugar will add a delightful crunch!

              Assemble the Sandwiches: Take one donut and place a generous scoop of softened vanilla ice cream on its underside. Top with a second donut to create a sandwich and gently press down to secure the ice cream.

                Freeze and Serve: Arrange the ice cream sandwiches on a plate and place them in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up and hold their shape. Once set, serve chilled for a refreshing and indulgent dessert!

                  - Prep Time: 10 min | Total Time: 1 hr 10 min | Servings: 6 sandwiches

                    - Presentation Tips: Serve the sandwiches on a decorative platter, optionally dusted with a sprinkle of cinnamon or accompanied by a drizzle of caramel sauce for an enticing presentation!