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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, nothing quite signals the arrival of autumn like the delightful aroma of freshly baked apple cider donuts. These delectable treats are a seasonal favorite, often found at local orchards and fall festivals, but there's something special about making them at home. The warmth of the oven and the sweet, spicy scent wafting through your kitchen create a cozy atmosphere that embodies the essence of fall. Homemade apple cider donuts not only taste incredible, but they also bring a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminding us of family gatherings and crisp autumn days.

Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts Baked Not Fried Recipe

Fall in love with these irresistible Apple Cider Donuts! Perfectly spiced and oh-so-fluffy, these homemade treats are easy to make and wonderful for sharing. With a delightful reduced apple cider flavor and a cinnamon-sugar coating, they’re ideal for cozy mornings or afternoon snacks. Simply mix, bake, and enjoy warm with your favorite beverage. This recipe yields about 12 delicious donuts—perfect for a family gathering or a sweet indulgence!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups apple cider

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup buttermilk

1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions
 

Reduce the Apple Cider: In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until it reduces to about 1/2 cup, approximately 15-20 minutes. Allow it to cool.

    Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan with cooking spray or butter.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

        Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and cooled apple cider reduction until smooth.

          Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.

            Fill the Donut Pan: Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each donut cavity about 3/4 full with the batter. This will allow room for the donuts to rise while baking.

              Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The donuts should be lightly golden on top.

                Cool and Coat: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon for coating.

                  Coat the Donuts: While the donuts are still slightly warm, roll each donut in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until thoroughly coated.

                    Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy your fresh, warm apple cider donuts with a cup of coffee, hot cider, or your favorite beverage!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | Makes about 12 donuts.