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Apple Cider Donuts

A close-up of a bowl filled with freshly made apple cider donuts, generously coated in cinnamon sugar.

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Make tender, spiced apple cider donuts at home with this easy recipe. These donuts feature a rich apple cider flavor and are coated in a warm cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup apple cider
  • 1/4 cup buttermilk
  • Vegetable oil, for frying
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider and buttermilk.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the apple cider mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).
  7. While the oil heats, prepare the cinnamon-sugar coating. In a shallow dish, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
  8. In a separate shallow dish, melt the 1/2 cup of butter.
  9. Working in batches, carefully drop rounded tablespoons of dough into the hot oil. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  10. Remove the donuts with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  11. While the donuts are still warm, dip each one first into the melted butter, then into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, coating evenly.

Notes

  • For a stronger apple flavor, you can reduce the apple cider by simmering it gently on the stovetop until it has reduced by about half. Let it cool before using.
  • If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to the 1/4 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
  • Ensure your oil temperature remains consistent for evenly cooked donuts.
  • These donuts are best enjoyed fresh, the day they are made.

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