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As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, few treats evoke the spirit of autumn quite like apple cider donuts. These delightful confections, with their warm, spiced flavors and soft, cake-like texture, have become a staple at fall festivals, farmers' markets, and cozy family gatherings. For many, they serve as a nostalgic reminder of childhood trips to apple orchards, where the intoxicating aroma of freshly fried donuts mingles with the sweet scent of ripe apples.

Irresistible Apple Cider Donuts Baked Not Fried Recipe

Get ready to indulge in the flavors of fall with these irresistible apple cider donuts! Made with a delightful blend of spices and a hint of sweetness, these baked treats are soft and fluffy, perfect for any occasion. The recipe combines reduced apple cider with applesauce for a delicious twist, then they're coated in cinnamon sugar for extra sweetness. Simple to make and oh-so-tasty, these donuts are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven or store them for a snack later!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups apple cider

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 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

1/4 cup cinnamon-sugar mixture (for coating)

Instructions
 

Reduce the Apple Cider: In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until it reduces to about 1 cup. Let it cool slightly.

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

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

        Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the reduced apple cider, egg, applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.

          Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Do not over-mix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

            Fill the Donut Pan: Using a piping bag or a zip-top bag with one corner cut off, fill each cavity of the donut pan about 2/3 full with the batter.

              Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean. Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

                Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: While the donuts are still warm, dip each one in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat.

                  Serve: Enjoy your baked apple cider donuts warm, or store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

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