Crispy Baked Apple Cider Donuts

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold, and the crisp autumn air sets in, there's nothing quite as comforting as indulging in a freshly baked apple cider donut. This beloved fall treat is a staple at local apple orchards and farmers' markets, drawing people in with its warm spices and sweet apple flavor. While traditional recipes often involve frying, this baked version not only offers a healthier alternative but also captures the essence of fall in each delightful bite.

Experience the flavors of fall with these crispy baked apple cider donuts! Perfectly spiced and bursting with the sweet taste of apples, this healthier alternative to fried donuts captures the essence of autumn in every bite. Ideal for cozy gatherings or a warm afternoon snack, these delightful treats are easy to make at home. The enticing aroma of cinnamon and apples will fill your kitchen, inviting everyone to indulge in this seasonal favorite.

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Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup apple cider

3/4 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Additional cinnamon sugar (1/4 cup granulated sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon, optional for coating)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a donut pan with non-stick cooking spray or butter.

Prepare the Cider Reduction: In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until it reduces to about 1/2 cup, approximately 15-20 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

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

Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and the apple cider reduction until smooth.

Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are fine.

Fill the Donut Pan: Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full. You can use a piping bag or a ziplock bag with the corner snipped off for easy filling.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a donut comes out clean.

Cool Donuts: Allow the donuts to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Dust or Coat: If you prefer a sugary coating, while the donuts are still warm, toss them in powdered sugar or the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.

Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, these crispy baked apple cider donuts are ready to be enjoyed! Pair with your favorite hot beverage for the perfect fall treat.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 12 donuts