Apple Cider Doughnuts Easy (Printer-Friendly Version)

Warm, spiced doughnuts coated in cinnamon sugar capture the flavors of crisp autumn days.

# What You'll Need:

→ Doughnut Batter

01 - 2 cups apple cider
02 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
03 - 2 teaspoons baking powder
04 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
05 - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
08 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
09 - 1 cup granulated sugar
10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 1/2 cup buttermilk
12 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
13 - Vegetable oil for frying

→ Cinnamon Sugar Coating

14 - 1 cup granulated sugar
15 - 1 1/2 tablespoons ground cinnamon

# Steps to Follow:

01 - Simmer 2 cups apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until reduced to about 1/2 cup, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Let cool completely before use.
02 - Combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl; whisk to blend evenly.
03 - In a large bowl, beat softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
04 - Add eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the cooled reduced apple cider, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until combined.
05 - Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined into a soft, slightly sticky dough. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm.
06 - Lightly flour a work surface and roll chilled dough to approximately 1/2-inch thickness. Cut out doughnuts and centers using a doughnut cutter or rings, reroll scraps as needed.
07 - Heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy pot to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer to maintain temperature.
08 - Fry doughnuts in batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the oil. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
09 - Mix granulated sugar with ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
10 - Toss warm doughnuts and doughnut holes in the cinnamon sugar mixture until thoroughly coated.

# Additional Tips:

01 - Ensure the oil temperature remains steady at 350°F to prevent greasy doughnuts. Chilling the dough improves handling and final texture.
02 - Freshly ground spices enhance the aromatic profile significantly.