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Delicious baked apple cider donuts coated with cinnamon sugar.

Apple Cider Donuts

Deliciously spiced apple cider donuts that are easy to make and perfect for cozy fall days.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Fall
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the donut batter
  • 2 cups apple cider Reduce it to concentrate the flavor.
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted Adds richness and keeps the texture tender.
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar Provides a warm, slightly caramel vibe.
  • 2 eggs Provides structure and cake donut feel.
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Basic flour for the batter.
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder Helps the donuts puff without yeast.
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon For flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg Classic donut spice.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances sweetness.
For the cinnamon sugar coating
  • 1/2 cup cinnamon sugar For coating the donuts after cooking.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pour about 2 cups of apple cider into a small pot and simmer on medium until it reduces to about 1 cup. Let it cool.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and a splash of vanilla.
  4. Add the cooled reduced cider to the wet ingredients and mix.
  5. Stir in the dry ingredients until combined. Do not overmix.
Cooking
  1. If frying: Lightly flour your surface, pat the dough out, and cut donut shapes. Heat oil to about 350 F and fry until golden, about 1 to 2 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
  2. If baking: Use a donut pan, grease it well, and pipe or spoon in the batter. Bake at 350 F until they spring back when touched, usually 10 to 14 minutes.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
  1. While the donuts are still warm, brush lightly with melted butter and roll in cinnamon sugar.

Notes

For a stronger apple flavor, reduce the cider a little more rather than adding more spices. Store cooled donuts in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze uncoated donuts.