Apple Cider Doughnuts Festive (Printer-Friendly)

Warm apple cider doughnuts coated in cinnamon sugar, perfect for fall gatherings and festive moments.

# List of Ingredients:

→ 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

# Preparation Steps:

01 - Pour 2 cups apple cider into a saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce until approximately 1/2 cup remains, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Let cool completely to intensify flavor.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly mixed.
03 - In a large bowl, beat softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
04 - Add eggs one at a time to the creamed butter mixture, beating well after each addition, then blend in reduced apple cider, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
05 - Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, forming a soft and slightly sticky dough. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm the dough.
06 - Lightly flour a work surface and roll chilled dough to 1/2-inch thickness. Use a doughnut cutter or nested round cutters to cut doughnuts and holes. Reroll scraps as needed.
07 - In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 to 3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F. Fry doughnuts in small batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
08 - Combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
09 - While still warm, toss fried doughnuts and holes in the cinnamon sugar mixture until thoroughly coated.

# Additional Suggestions:

01 - Ensure oil temperature remains steady at 350°F to prevent greasy doughnuts and achieve even cooking.
02 - Chilling the dough before shaping improves handling and reduces oil absorption during frying.
03 - Freshly ground spices enhance aroma and flavor complexity.
04 - Serve doughnuts warm for optimal texture; reheat briefly in a low oven if prepared in advance.