Homemade Apple Cider Donuts

Ingredients

• Apple cider (2 cups)
• Sugar (3/4 cup)
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted)
• Eggs (2)
• All-purpose flour (3 1/2 cups)
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons)
• Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon)
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
• Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon)
• Buttermilk (1/2 cup)
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Cinnamon sugar (1 cup (to roll donuts))

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to about 1/4 cup. Set it aside to cool.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, melted butter, and eggs until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and the cooled, reduced apple cider. Stir until just combined.
5. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
6. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F (190°C).
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/2 inch thick. Use a donut cutter or a round cookie cutter to cut out donuts.
8. Fry the donuts in the hot oil until they're golden brown, approximately 2 minutes per side.
9. Drain the fried donuts on paper towels to remove excess oil, then roll them in cinnamon sugar while they're still warm. Ensure the donuts are fully coated for the best flavor.