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As the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, and the air takes on a crisp chill, nothing signals the arrival of fall quite like the delightful aroma of freshly baked apple cider donuts. These treats are not just a seasonal indulgence; they are a comforting reminder of cozy autumn days spent at orchards, cider mills, and fall festivals. The combination of warm spices, sweet apple flavor, and the soft, cake-like texture makes these donuts simply irresistible. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of cider or served at a festive gathering, apple cider donuts have a unique way of capturing the essence of the season.

Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts Baked Not Fried Recipe

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with these irresistible apple cider donuts! Made with reduced apple cider for that authentic sweetness, these soft and fluffy donuts are spiced just right with cinnamon and nutmeg. The perfect treat for any occasion, they're easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Roll them in a sugary cinnamon coating and serve warm with coffee for a cozy morning snack. Trust us, these donuts will become a favorite!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups apple cider

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 large egg

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 cup vegetable oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup powdered sugar (for coating)

Extra ground cinnamon and sugar (for coating)

Instructions
 

Reduce the Cider: In a saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until it's reduced to about 1/2 cup (approximately 10-15 minutes). Allow it to cool slightly.

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

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

        Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the reduced apple cider, egg, applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

          Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

            Fill the Pan: Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.

              Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean.

                Cool and Coat: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, in a shallow dish, mix powdered sugar with a teaspoon of cinnamon and additional granulated sugar. Roll each donut in the mixture until coated.

                  Serve: Enjoy your irresistible apple cider donuts warm or at room temperature. They pair perfectly with coffee or a cup of hot cider!

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 12 donuts