Spiced Apple Cider Donuts are a delightful fall treat that brings together the warm flavors of apple cider and spices. These baked donuts are soft, fluffy, and coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture, making them perfect for enjoying with a warm cup of coffee or cider. This easy recipe will have your kitchen smelling like autumn in no time!

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 1 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Coating:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Timing

Preparing Spiced Apple Cider Donuts takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of baking time. Total time is approximately 30 minutes.

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with cooking spray or butter.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

1. In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until reduced to about 1/2 cup (approximately 10-15 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Make the Donut Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
2. Stir in the reduced apple cider until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Bake the Donuts

1. Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about 2/3 full.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Coat the Donuts

1. In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
2. While the donuts are still warm, dip each one in the melted butter, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the Spiced Apple Cider Donuts warm or at room temperature. They are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Spiced Apple Cider Donuts (per donut, assuming 12 servings):

• Calories: 150
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 23g
• Fiber: 0g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

• Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
• Use unsweetened applesauce instead of butter for part of the fat.
• Reduce the sugar in the coating or use a sugar alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• A hot cup of apple cider or coffee.
• Whipped cream cheese or a light glaze for added sweetness.
• A side of fresh fruit, like apple slices or pears.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Reducing the Cider: Make sure to reduce the apple cider; this intensifies the flavor and ensures the right consistency.
2. Overfilling the Pan: Fill the donut pan only 2/3 full to allow room for rising.
3. Not Cooling Before Coating: Allow the donuts to cool slightly before coating to prevent the sugar from melting.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Spiced Apple Cider Donuts can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

In just about 30 minutes, you can create delicious Spiced Apple Cider Donuts that capture the essence of fall. These donuts are easy to make and are sure to become a favorite for family and friends!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly for this recipe.

Can I make these donuts gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What can I use instead of a donut pan?

If you don’t have a donut pan, you can use a muffin tin to make apple cider muffins instead.

How do I make a glaze for the donuts?

You can mix powdered sugar with a little milk and vanilla extract to create a simple glaze to drizzle over the cooled donuts.