1-Getting started with baked apple cider donuts: Getting started with baked apple cider donuts is straightforward and fun, taking about 1 hour from start to finish, including reducing the cider. Begin by reducing 1 and 1/2 cups of apple cider over low heat until about 1/2 cup remains, which takes around 20 minutes, then let it cool for 10 minutes. This step adds a rich apple flavor to your batter.

2-Whisk together the dry ingredients in a large bowl: 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 3/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon apple pie spice, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients: 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, 1 large room-temperature egg, 1/2 cup packed light or dark brown sugar, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup milk (or buttermilk, plain yogurt, or sour cream), 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract, and the cooled reduced apple cider until smooth and slightly thick.

3-Prepare your donut pans: Prepare your donut pans by spraying them with non-stick spray, then pipe the batter into the molds, filling each halfway. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 10-11 minutes until the donuts are lightly browned and springy. After baking, let them cool for 2 minutes in the pans before removing. If you have extra batter, grease the pans again and repeat the process.

4-Dip the donuts and coat them: Once cooled, dip the donuts in 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and coat them in a mixture of 1 cup granulated sugar, 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 3/4 teaspoon apple pie spice. For an internal link, check out our guide on easy no-cook recipes if you want more simple baking ideas. These donuts taste best right away, but you can store them for later as noted in other sections.