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Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar

These Brown Butter Apple Cider Donuts with Cinnamon Sugar blend the flavors of crisp autumn apples and nutty brown butter, creating an indulgent treat perfect for brunch or desserts.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 12 donuts
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 180
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Donuts
  • 1 cup apple cider To be reduced to intensify flavor
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter For browning, providing a nutty flavor
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour The base of your donuts
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda To help them rise
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder For extra fluffiness
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon To spice up the mix
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg For warmth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt To balance the sweetness
  • 2 large eggs For richness
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar For caramel-like sweetness
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar For a touch of lightness
  • 1/2 cup whole milk For moisture
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract For depth of flavor
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar For coating
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon To roll them in after baking
  • 1/4 cup melted butter For brushing
Optional Toppings
  • 1/2 cup caramel sauce Store-bought or homemade
  • pinch flaky sea salt For that touch of sophisticated flavor
  • 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream To thin, if needed
  • vanilla ice cream An indulgent optional topping

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by pouring 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
  2. Reduce the cider until it reaches about 1/3 cup, approximately 15-20 minutes.
Brown the Butter
  1. In a separate pan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat until it becomes golden brown, around 5 minutes.
Make the Batter
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your donut pan.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, combine eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, brown butter, milk, vanilla extract, and reduced apple cider, then mix well.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Bake the Donuts
  1. Spoon the batter into the donut pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
  2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  3. Brush the warm donuts with melted butter and roll them in a mixture of granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.

Notes

Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for about 2 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Opt for whole wheat flour or a low-calorie sweetener for a healthier alternative.