Add apples, orange, spices, and water to a large pot.
Simmer at least 2 hrs until fruit is soft.
Mash fruit against the pot with a wooden spoon.
Simmer 15 more min, then taste. Add water or sweetener if desired.
Strain and serve warm, or cool to use in the donuts.
Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray donut pan or muffin tin.
In a large bowl, whisk 5 tbsp (70 g) butter with brown sugar + 2 tbsp (25 g) sugar until light and fluffy.
Whisk in egg and vanilla.
Add flour, baking powder, salt, and ½ tsp cinnamon. Mix until combined.
Stir in apple cider until smooth.
Fill molds ½–⅔ full (since they'll rise significantly in the oven).
Bake 10–15 min (longer if muffins) until a toothpick comes out clean.
Mix ¼ cup (50 g) sugar + ½ tsp cinnamon in a bowl.
Brush or dip donuts with melted butter, then roll tops in cinnamon sugar.
