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Classic Apple Cider Donuts

These Classic Apple Cider Donuts are baked to perfection, with a soft texture and warm apple flavor, making them a must-have fall treat.

These Classic Apple Cider Donuts capture the essence of fall with their tender crumb, warm spices, and a distinct apple cider flavor. Baked to perfection and coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, these donuts are ideal for cool autumn mornings, cozy gatherings, or any time you’re craving a seasonal treat. Made with reduced apple cider to concentrate its flavors, these donuts deliver that classic apple orchard taste in every bite. Enjoy them with a warm cup of coffee or hot apple cider for the perfect fall experience.


  • Rich Apple Flavor: The reduced apple cider provides a concentrated apple flavor that makes these donuts stand out.

  • Warm Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice bring the cozy taste of fall into every bite.

  • Baked, Not Fried: These donuts are baked for a lighter treat that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, these apple cider donuts are always a hit.

Tips & Trick:
  • Reduce the Cider for More Flavor: Don’t skip the step of reducing the apple cider, as it intensifies the flavor.

  • Use Buttermilk for a Tender Texture: If you don’t have buttermilk, make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

  • Coat While Warm: Dip the donuts in butter and cinnamon sugar while they’re still warm for the best coating.

1. Can I make these donuts without a donut pan?
Yes, you can pipe the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake as mini muffins. The baking time may need to be adjusted slightly.

2. Can I use store-bought apple cider?
Yes, but make sure it’s fresh apple cider, not apple juice, for the best flavor.

3. Can I freeze apple cider donuts?
Yes, let them cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

4. What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can substitute with a buttermilk alternative by mixing regular milk with vinegar or lemon juice.

This Classic Apple Cider Donuts Recipe is a must-try for fall, offering a delicious balance of warm spices and apple flavor. Baked to perfection and coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, these donuts capture the essence of the season. Try them this fall and enjoy a taste of apple orchard goodness right at home.

Classic Apple Cider Donuts

Classic Apple Cider Donuts
Ingredients:
  • 1 1/2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1/2 cup)

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

  • 1/2 cup buttermilk

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 cup melted butter (for dipping)


Instructions:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a donut pan with non-stick spray.

  2. Reduce the apple cider: In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and let it cook down until only 1/2 cup remains. This will take about 10-15 minutes. Set aside to cool.

  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt.

  4. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, brown sugar, eggs, melted butter, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced apple cider. Mix well until smooth.

  5. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

  6. Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.

  7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean.

  8. Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack.

  9. Prepare the cinnamon-sugar coating: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon.

  10. Dip each donut into the melted butter, then coat with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Serve warm or at room temperature.

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