Apple Cider Donuts

Recipe View Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Generously butter two 6-cup donut pans to ensure easy release. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View In a saucepan, gently simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to 1/2 cup, intensifying its flavor. Monitor closely to prevent over-reduction; add water if needed to reach the correct volume. (Cook time: 15-20 minutes)

Recipe View In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. This ensures even distribution of the spices for a consistent flavor. (Prep time: 3 minutes)

Recipe View In a separate bowl, whisk together the white sugar, brown sugar, milk, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, vanilla extract, and egg until well combined. Incorporate the reduced apple cider and then gradually add the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined into a smooth, slightly thick batter. Avoid overmixing to keep the donuts tender. (Prep time: 7 minutes)

Recipe View Carefully spoon or pipe the batter into the prepared donut pans, filling each cavity about 3/4 full. This allows room for the donuts to rise without overflowing. (Prep time: 5 minutes)

Recipe View Bake in the preheated oven until the tops are lightly golden brown and the donuts spring back gently when touched, approximately 10 to 12 minutes. Allow the donuts to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack lined with a silicone baking mat. (Bake time: 10-12 minutes, Cool time: 10 minutes)

Recipe View While the donuts are still slightly warm, lightly brush them with the remaining melted butter to help the cinnamon sugar adhere. (Prep time: 3 minutes)

Recipe View In a shallow dish, combine the white sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Toss the warm donuts in the mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Allow them to cool completely before serving to let the flavors meld. (Prep time: 5 minutes)