Apple Cider Donuts with Maple Glaze and Pecans

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup apple cider
• Confectioners' sugar for dusting
• Maple syrup for glaze
• Chopped pecans for topping

Instructions:

Make the Donuts

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Stir to dissolve the yeast, then let sit for 5 minutes.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking well after each addition.
4. Whisk in the melted butter, apple cider, and yeast mixture.
5. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
6. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Fry the Donuts

1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. Once the oil is hot, use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop the dough into the oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
3. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove the donuts from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Make the Maple Glaze

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the maple syrup and confectioners' sugar until smooth.
2. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled donuts.

Top with Pecans

1. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of the glazed donuts.

Notes:

• To make the apple cider donuts more authentic, use a mix of all-purpose flour and cornstarch to create a crispy exterior.
• If you can't find apple cider, substitute it with a combination of equal parts water and apple juice.