And if you grew up on the East Coast, you've probably indulged in your fair share of apple cider doughnuts. Apple cider doughnuts are synonymous with fall, particularly in New England, where apple orchards from Maine to New York use their own cider to flavor the fluffy, golden rings. Both sweet and savory, and often dusted in finger-licking cinnamon sugar, apple cider doughnuts may seem like a quaint tradition inherited from colonial times—but the tasty treats have a more modern history that may surprise you. | Vrinda Mahesh/500px/Getty ImagesThe cider doughnut recipe gives a fall spin to the basic buttermilk doughnut by adding apple cider to the batter, with cinnamon and nutmeg boosting the autumnal flavor. Each orchard typically has its own family recipe and usually serves them paired with mulled apple cider.