Masuk Free Press

Apple cider donuts are something of a passion in small-town Connecticut culture. Students of Masuk especially cannot get enough of these delectable seasonal treats. And with this passion comes a heated controversy. Where are the best apple cider donuts of the region to be found?

Having never had an apple cider donut in my life, I made it my mission to settle the debate. After lengthy research, investigation and eating, I have compiled a ranked list of the best apple cider donut spots near us.

4. Silverman’s Farm

I am sorry to those whom I will offend with my harsh words. Both literally and metaphorically, Silverman’s apple cider donuts were difficult to swallow. After a long wait both outside the farm and inside the store, I was expecting a breathtaking culinary experience from these “famous donuts” (as alleged by the boisterous packaging). My problem with them stems from their unique texture. After taking a bite and chewing, the consistency of the donut rapidly degraded into a thick mush that made the donut a challenge to eat and finish. In addition, the flavor of the donut itself was lackluster, all in all creating a disappointing experience.

3. Big Y
I would be remiss if I did not mention Big Y’s store brand apple cider donuts. These tasted exactly like you would expect. Generic, mass produced, kind of stale, all around an average store bought food item. Not offensive, but nothing extraordinary. They are a good choice if you want a cheap and convenient option for your donuts. But they pale in comparison to the higher quality alternatives.

2. Beardsley’s Cider Mill and Orchard

Contrary to popular opinion amongst Masuk, Beardsley did not fall in the number one spot on my ranking. Beardsley’s offered a very strong donut. They especially shone when it came to the apple flavoring. But once again, consistency is where my issues lie. Very thick and chewy, this factor detracts from the quality of the sweetness and taste. This imbalance creates an emphasis on the cake of the donut itself instead of the apple cider flavor. Regardless, Beardsley’s offerings are nothing to scoff at. They are leagues above any of the previous options, with only one donut location able to supersede the widely paraded and fabled Beardlsey donuts.

1. Plasko’s Farm Creamery & Cafe
Unlike the prior entries, Plasko’s more than lived up to the hype. Though a smaller establishment than an option like Silverman’s, taste wise, the victor is immediately clear. When you bite into a Plasko’s apple cider donut, the distinct texture makes it clear that the donuts are on another level. After eating these, I began to understand exactly why others were so crazy about apple cider donuts. I could ramble on about the different facets that these baked goods excel in. Particularly, Plasko shows up the competition in the “mouth-feel” department. These donuts are smaller in size than the others, but this works in Plasko’s favor. The size helps in creating a softer donut overall, which becomes all the more satisfying when juxtaposed with the crunch of crystallized sugar. Plasko’s set the bar high for apple cider donuts. None of the competitors could reach this height.

Having been an apple cider donut virgin for 16 years of my life, this journey enlightened both my mind and my tastebuds. Although almost all of these farms and markets offered something positive and unique with their apple cider donuts, only one could have been selected for the top. I personally can guarantee that I will be returning to Plasko’s Farm Creamery & Café for their donuts very soon. And if you are nearby and decide to give them a chance, you will undoubtedly understand exactly how irresistible they are.