Apple Cider Doughnuts

Directions

1. 1
   Combine apples and 3/4 cup apple cider in medium saucepan; cover. Cook over medium heat 8 minutes or until softened. Uncover and continue cooking 5 minutes or until apples are tender and cider is almost completely reduced. Puree mixture with an immersion blender or in food processor until smooth. Measure the sauce; you should have 1/2 cup. If you have more, return to saucepan and continue cooking until reduced to 1/2 cup. Let cool slightly.
2. 2
   Preheat oven to 350°F.Combine flour, baking powder, salt, spices and baking soda in medium bowl; set aside.
3. 3
   Add granulated sugar and shortening to bowl of KitchenAid(R) Artisan Mini Stand Mixer. Attach bowl and Flat Beaterto mixer. Turn to Speed 4 and beat until mixture is light and fluffy. Turn to Speed 1 and gradually add egg and apple mixture.Continuing on Speed 1, add half the flour mixture, buttermilk and vanilla. After the liquid is fully incorporated, add remaining flour mixture. Mix 1 minute. The mixture will be sticky.
4. 4
   Spray two 6-cavity full-sized doughnut baking pans generously with vegetable pan spray. Spoon 1/4 cup batter into each cavity. Recipe will yield 9 doughnuts.Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until toothpick inserted in doughnuts comes out clean. Reserve in pan.
5. 5
   Add remaining 1/4 cup apple cider to small saucepan and bring to a simmer on medium heat. Transfer to medium bowl and whisk in powdered sugar until smooth.Dip each warm donut in the glaze, turning it with a fork. Transfer to cooling rack set on top of a baking sheet and let stand until glaze has set.