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Homemade donuts hold a special charm that is hard to resist. The warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake creates a cozy atmosphere that beckons family and friends to gather around. Among the myriad of flavors that donuts can embody, none capture the essence of fall quite like fluffy apple cider donuts. These delightful treats not only showcase the rich, seasonal taste of apple cider but also provide a soft, pillowy texture that makes every bite a comforting experience.

Fluffy Apple Cider Donuts

Indulge in the delightful charm of homemade fluffy apple cider donuts with this easy recipe! Perfect for fall gatherings, these treats blend the rich flavors of apple cider with warm spices, creating a soft and airy texture that melts in your mouth. Learn the key ingredients and step-by-step instructions to craft these nostalgic delights. With a scrumptious cinnamon sugar coating, they’re ideal for cozy mornings or festive occasions. Gather your loved ones and savor the flavors of the season!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups apple cider

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 large eggs

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cinnamon sugar for coating (1/2 cup granulated sugar mixed with 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon)

Instructions
 

Reduce the Cider: In a medium saucepan, pour in the apple cider and bring it to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Stir occasionally, allowing it to reduce until it measures 1 cup, which should take about 20-25 minutes. After reducing, remove the saucepan from heat and let the cider cool slightly.

    Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, use a whisk to combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until all dry ingredients are fully blended and no lumps remain.

      Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, slightly cooled melted butter, buttermilk, the reduced apple cider, and vanilla extract. Whisk these ingredients until the mixture is smooth and homogenous.

        Combine Mixtures: Gently pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, fold the mixtures together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; leaving a few small lumps is perfectly fine.

          Preheat the Oven: Adjust your oven rack to the middle position and preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan generously with non-stick spray or melted butter to prevent sticking.

            Fill the Pan: To fill the donut cavities, transfer the batter into a piping bag or a zip-top bag with one corner snipped off. Fill each cavity about two-thirds full with the batter, ensuring even distribution.

              Bake the Donuts: Place the filled donut pan in the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a donut; it should come out clean. Once baked, let the donuts cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

                Coat in Cinnamon Sugar: While the donuts are still slightly warm, roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until they are fully coated, adding a delightful sweetness and fragrance.

                  Serve and Enjoy: Your fluffy apple cider donuts are best enjoyed warm or at room temperature. They make a perfect pairing with coffee or your favorite hot beverage.

                    Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 12 delicious donuts

                      Presentation Tips: Arrange the donuts on a tiered stand or a pretty plate, dusting extra cinnamon sugar on top for an enticing look. Consider garnishing with thin apple slices for a fresh, decorative touch.