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Introduction

Baked Apple Cider Donuts are a fall favorite, bursting with warm spices and sweet apple flavor. Unlike traditional fried donuts, these baked treats are healthier while still offering a soft, fluffy texture with a crispy cinnamon-sugar coating. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or served at a festive gathering, these donuts bring the essence of autumn to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Packed with comforting apple cider and cinnamon flavors.
• Baked instead of fried, making them a lighter option.
• Easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients.
• Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or fall celebrations.

Origin of the Dish

Apple cider donuts are believed to have originated in the Northeastern United States, where apple orchards are abundant. These donuts became a staple treat at cider mills and fall festivals, offering a delicious way to enjoy the season’s apple harvest. Today, they remain a beloved fall dessert across the country, enjoyed in bakeries, farms, and homemade versions.

Ingredients

For the Donuts:

• 1 1/2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1/2 cup)
• 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
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons melted butter

How to Make Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

1. Pour apple cider into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced to 1/2 cup.
2. Set aside to cool before using in the batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In another bowl, whisk melted butter and brown sugar until combined.
2. Add eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and cooled apple cider reduction.
3. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.

Step 4: Bake the Donuts

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a donut pan and fill each mold about 3/4 full with batter.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Allow donuts to cool for a few minutes before removing from the pan.

Step 5: Coat the Donuts

1. In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon.
2. Brush each donut with melted butter and coat with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Cooking Tips

• Reduce the cider properly – This concentrates the apple flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing can make the donuts dense.
• Use a piping bag – It makes filling the donut molds easier and neater.
• Coat while warm – Helps the cinnamon-sugar stick better.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping cider reduction – The flavor won’t be as rich and intense.
• Overbaking – This can dry out the donuts, so check for doneness early.
• Using too much flour – Spoon and level the flour instead of scooping.
• Not greasing the pan well – This can cause donuts to stick.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with hot apple cider or coffee for a cozy fall treat.
• Drizzle with caramel or glaze for extra sweetness.
• Serve as a dessert with vanilla ice cream.
• Pack them for picnics or road trips as a delicious snack.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

• Apples – Rich in antioxidants and fiber, supporting digestion.
• Cinnamon – Helps regulate blood sugar and has anti-inflammatory properties.
• Nutmeg – A natural brain booster and digestion aid.
• Buttermilk – Contains probiotics that promote gut health.
• Baking instead of frying – Reduces excess oil and calories.

Interesting Facts About Apple Cider Donuts

• The first apple cider donuts were likely made by early American settlers.
• They became a fall tradition at cider mills in the early 20th century.
• Apple cider itself dates back to 55 B.C., introduced by the Romans.
• In some U.S. states, apple cider donuts are a staple at state fairs and pumpkin patches.

Summarized Recipe

Ingredients:

• Apple cider (reduced), flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, buttermilk.
• For coating: Sugar, cinnamon, melted butter.

Method:

1. Reduce apple cider to intensify flavor.
2. Mix dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine.
3. Fill donut pan and bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes.
4. Coat with cinnamon-sugar after brushing with butter.
5. Enjoy warm!

Baked Apple Cider Donuts are the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and soft, making them a must-try for fall. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, they bring the warm flavors of autumn to every bite!

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