Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider : Pour 1½ cups apple cider into a small saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until reduced to about ½ cup (15–20 minutes). Cool completely before adding to the batter. This intensifies the apple flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients : In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice (if using), and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients : In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, buttermilk, vanilla, and reduced apple cider until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Make the Batter : Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined — don’t overmix, or the donuts can turn dense.

Step 5: Bake or Fry: For Baked Donuts: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a donut pan with nonstick spray. Spoon or pipe the batter into the pan, filling each cavity about ¾ full. Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until the donuts spring back when lightly touched. Let cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

For Fried Donuts: Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough to ½-inch thickness and cut with a donut cutter. Fry 2–3 donuts at a time for 1 minute per side, until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Step 6: Coat in Cinnamon Sugar : Mix granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl. Brush warm donuts with melted butter. Roll each donut generously in cinnamon sugar until fully coated. Serve warm!