Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider : Pour 1 cup of apple cider into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until reduced to about ¼ cup (takes 10–15 minutes). Set aside to cool. This step intensifies the apple flavor beautifully.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare : Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients : In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Mix the Wet Ingredients : In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, egg, buttermilk, vanilla extract, and reduced apple cider until smooth.

Step 5: Combine : Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir gently until just combined — do not overmix, or the donuts may become dense.

Step 6: Fill the Donut Pan : Spoon the batter into a piping bag or ziplock bag and cut off the tip. Pipe batter evenly into each donut cavity, filling about ¾ full.

Step 7: Bake : Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into a donut comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes in the pan, then carefully transfer to a wire rack.

Step 8: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar :In a shallow bowl, mix together sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Brush each warm donut with melted butter, then roll generously in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Serve warm or at room temperature — both are heavenly.