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At the heart of this recipe is apple cider, the ingredient that brings both flavor and moisture to the donuts. Using real apple cider, rather than apple juice, elevates the flavor profile significantly, providing a deep, rich taste that’s quintessentially autumn. When selecting your apple cider, aim for high-quality, unsweetened options that are made from fresh apples. Look for products that list apples as the primary ingredient and avoid those with added sugars or preservatives.

Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Embrace the essence of fall with these delicious Baked Apple Cider Donuts! These guilt-free treats are filled with the rich flavors of apple cider and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Perfect for cozy gatherings or a sweet afternoon snack, these donuts are baked to golden perfection, offering a fluffy texture without the added grease of frying. Discover the ingredients, preparation tips, and creative serving ideas that will make your baking experience delightful and rewarding! Enjoy the comforting aroma and irresistible taste of autumn with every bite.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup apple cider

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground allspice

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon salt

½ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup light brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

½ cup unsweetened applesauce

¼ cup vegetable oil

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup granulated sugar (for coating)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with non-stick spray or lightly coat it with oil.

    Reduce Apple Cider: In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and let it simmer until it reduces to about ½ cup, which should take 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

        Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until well combined. Stir in the unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and the reduced apple cider. Mix until smooth.

          Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

            Fill the Pan: Using a piping bag or a spoon, fill each donut cavity in the pan about ¾ full with batter.

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

                Cool: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                  Prepare Coating: In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon together for the coating.

                    Coat the Donuts: Once the donuts have cooled, lightly brush each donut with melted butter, then roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

                      Serve: Enjoy warm or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

                        Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 12 donuts