Apple Cider Donuts Cinnamon (Print Version)

Tender, baked donuts featuring apple cider and a cinnamon sugar finish—an inviting fall treat.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Donut Batter

01 - 1 cup apple cider
02 - 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
03 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
04 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
05 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
06 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
08 - 2/3 cup granulated sugar
09 - 2 tablespoons brown sugar
10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
12 - 1/4 cup vegetable oil
13 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

→ Cinnamon Sugar Coating

14 - 1/2 cup granulated sugar
15 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
16 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

# How to Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease two standard donut pans.
02 - In a small saucepan over medium heat, simmer apple cider until reduced to 1/2 cup. Allow to cool slightly.
03 - In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
04 - In a separate bowl, whisk together reduced apple cider, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
05 - Add wet ingredients to dry ingredients and mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.
06 - Spoon or pipe the batter into prepared donut pans, filling each cavity about three-quarters full.
07 - Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into a donut emerges clean.
08 - Allow donuts to cool in the pans for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
09 - In a shallow bowl, mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Brush each warm donut with melted butter, then dip in cinnamon sugar to coat thoroughly.

# Additional Tips::

01 -
  • Uses simple pantry and fridge staples so you are likely already stocked up
  • No frying mess or fuss since these bake up soft and golden in the oven
  • Big on real apple flavor from reduced apple cider
  • Kid friendly and fun for a weekend baking project
  • Dough is quick to mix with just two bowls and a whisk
  • Light texture due to applesauce and just the right oil
02 -
  • Baked not fried so lighter than classic cider donuts
  • Best flavors when eaten the same day
  • Perfect with morning coffee or packed in a fall picnic
03 -
  • Measure flour by spooning it into the cup and leveling off to avoid dense donuts
  • Simmer that cider ahead if you want to save time on busy mornings
  • If you like a thicker sugar crust double dip your donuts while still warm
  • Let kids help with coating because it is fun and gets everyone excited to eat

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