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Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Delicious, spiced treats made with fresh apple cider and warm spices, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 16 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Course: Breakfast, Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Fall
Calories: 150
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dry Ingredients
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour Provides structure and texture.
  • 1 cup brown sugar Adds moisture and a rich, caramel flavor.
  • 1 tbsp baking powder Helps the donuts rise for a light texture.
  • 1 tsp baking soda Aids in achieving the perfect rise and soft interior.
  • 1 tsp salt Enhances flavor and balances sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon Infuses warmth and spice.
  • 1 tsp ground ginger Adds a zesty and aromatic kick.
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg Contributes a warm, nutty flavor.
  • 1/4 tsp ground cardamom Provides a distinctive, aromatic touch.
Wet Ingredients
  • 1 cup apple cider The star ingredient, imparting a fresh apple flavor.
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce Keeps the donuts moist without extra fat.
  • 1/2 cup melted vegan butter Adds richness and moistness to the donuts.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract Boosts the overall flavor profile.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cinnamon sugar coating.
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon For rolling the donuts after baking.
  • 1/4 cup melted vegan butter To brush on warm donuts before coating with sugar.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a donut pan with oil or non-stick spray.
  2. In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to about 3/4 cup. Let it cool slightly.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cardamom until well combined.
  4. In another bowl, whisk the reduced apple cider, applesauce, melted vegan butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  5. Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold until just combined; do not overmix.
  6. Spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full.
Baking
  1. Bake for 14-16 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  2. Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Coating
  1. In a small bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon.
  2. Brush each warm donut with melted vegan butter, then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture until well coated.

Notes

Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor. Store in an airtight container to retain moisture. Freezing individual donuts wrapped tightly for up to 2 months is an option.