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Apple Cider Donuts Recipe

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4 from 12 reviews

Delight in these warm, spiced Apple Cider Donuts, perfect for cozy autumn mornings or a sweet treat any time of the year. Baked to golden perfection and coated with a cinnamon sugar blend, these donuts combine the comforting flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a classic seasonal dessert.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/4 tsp baking powder
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp cinnamon, divided
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg

Wet Ingredients

  • 1 cup room-temperature butter (2 sticks or 16 tablespoons), divided
  • 3/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar (Just Panela Organic Unrefined Cane Sugar recommended)
  • 1/4 cup cider syrup (Carr’s Cider Syrup recommended)
  • 2 eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup apple cider

Topping

  • 1/2 cup organic white sugar
  • 1 tsp cinnamon (from the 2 tsp divided cinnamon)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter or spray two donut pans with nonstick spray to ensure easy donut removal after baking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until well combined.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a standing mixer, beat 10 tablespoons of the room-temperature butter with the brown sugar and cider syrup until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, followed by the pure vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition for a smooth batter.
  5. Combine Dry Ingredients: On low speed, slowly mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender.
  6. Add Apple Cider: Gradually add the apple cider while mixing on low until fully incorporated into the batter.
  7. Fill Donut Pans: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pans, filling each cavity evenly.
  8. Bake: Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, rotating the pans halfway through to ensure even baking. The donuts should be golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
  9. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar: While the donuts bake, whisk together the white sugar and the remaining 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a shallow dish.
  10. Melt Remaining Butter: Melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter for brushing after baking.
  11. Cool and Unmold: After baking, allow the donuts to cool in the pans for 5 minutes. Then carefully unmold them from the pans while still warm.
  12. Brush with Butter: Generously brush the warm donuts with the melted butter to help the cinnamon sugar stick.
  13. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Dredge each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture while still warm, ensuring an even coating.
  14. Serve: Enjoy the donuts immediately with your favorite cozy cup of coffee or tea for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • For best results, use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth mixing.
  • If you don’t have cider syrup, you can substitute with additional brown sugar or a simple syrup infused with apple cider spices.
  • Donuts are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil, though texture may vary.