Apple Cider Donuts (Print Version)

Ingredients:

01 - 1 cup apple cider.
02 - 2 cups all-purpose flour.
03 - 1 tsp baking powder.
04 - ½ tsp baking soda.
05 - 1 tsp ground cinnamon.
06 - ½ tsp ground nutmeg.
07 - ¼ tsp ground cloves.
08 - ¼ tsp salt.
09 - ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened.
10 - ½ cup sugar.
11 - 1 large egg.
12 - 1 tsp vanilla extract.
13 - ½ cup buttermilk.
14 - Cinnamon Sugar Coating: ½ cup sugar, 1 tbsp ground cinnamon.

Instructions:

01 - In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to ¼ cup, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside to cool.
02 - In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
03 - In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, then add the vanilla extract, buttermilk, and reduced apple cider. Mix until smooth.
04 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms. The dough will be sticky.
05 - Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to roll out.
06 - On a well-floured surface, roll out the dough to about ½-inch thickness. Use a donut cutter or two round cutters to cut the dough into donut shapes.
07 - Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the donuts in batches for 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
08 - While the donuts are still warm, toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat. Serve warm.

Notes:

01 - Tip: Use cold dough for easier shaping and better frying results.
02 - Serve the donuts warm for the best flavor and texture.