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Close-up of a ring-shaped Spiced Apple Cider Donut coated in granulated sugar, with a piece cut out.

Spiced Apple Cider Donuts

These spiced apple cider donuts are a delightful treat, perfect for autumn or any time you crave a warm, cinnamon-spiced flavor. They are baked, not fried, making them a slightly healthier option.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Course: Breakfast, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Donuts
  • 1.5 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 0.5 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 0.25 tsp ground cloves
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 0.5 cup apple cider reduced by simmering for 5 minutes
  • 0.25 cup milk
For the Topping
  • 0.25 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Equipment

  • Donut pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Spatula
  • Wire rack

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a donut pan, or use baking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
  3. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, reduced apple cider, and milk.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  5. Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about two-thirds full.
  6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Let the donuts cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. While the donuts are cooling, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, and cinnamon. Mix well.
  9. Once the donuts are cool, dip the tops into the cinnamon-sugar mixture, or brush it on.

Notes

For a stronger apple flavor, you can simmer the apple cider for 10-15 minutes to reduce it further before measuring. Ensure the cider is reduced before adding it to the batter.