Whisk together the cinnamon sugar mixture in a small mixing bowl and set aside.
Add the apple cider to a pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Turn the heat to low and let this cook for 30-35 minutes, or until there is ½ cup left.
Immediately transfer this to a large mixing bowl, along with the butter. Whisk it together (the hot apple cider will melt the butter) Then, whisk in the brown sugar, applesauce, buttermilk, and eggs. Mix in the flour, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and baking powder using a spatula.
Transfer the dough to a floured surface. Sprinkle the dough with 1 tbsp of flour and roll it out until it’s ¼ inch thick. Using a donut cutter (or cup & vanilla extract cap🤪) cut out the donuts and place them on a parchment paper lined baking sheet.
In a dutch oven or heavy duty pot, add about 3 inches of oil or tallow. Heat to 375F and then fry the donuts—1 minute on each side or until golden brown. Coat each donut immediately into the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Enjoy fresh or store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
