Sugar and Spice Doughnuts

1. 1

   Whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, 1 cup of the sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of the apple pie spice in a medium bowl until well mixed.

2. 2

   Stir the remaining 1/2 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon apple pie spice together in a shallow dish.

3. 3

   Set aside.

4. 4

   Whisk together the eggs, melted shortening, lemon zest and 1/2 cup seltzer water in a large bowl until smooth.

5. 5

   Stir in the flour mixture.

6. 6

   Add the remaining seltzer water, a teaspoon at a time, just until the dough comes together in a soft and shaggy ball.

7. 7

   Turn the dough out onto a generously-floured cutting board (it will be a bit sticky).

8. 8

   Sprinkle the top with flour and pat out until it is about 3/8-inch thick.

9. 9

   Cut out as many circles as possible using a 3-inch round cookie or biscuit cutter, then cut out doughtnut holes from the center of each with a 1-inch round cutter.

10. 10

    Reserve the doughnuts and holes.

11. 11

    Gather the scraps together and pat them out again to 3/8-inch thickness.

12. 12

    Continue to cut doughnuts and doughnut holes, reworking the scraps, until all the dough is used.

13. 13

    Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until a deep frying thermometer inserted in the oil reaches 375 degrees F. Working in batches, fry the doughnuts and holes until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally.

14. 14

    Transfer to a paper towel-lined baking sheet to drain and cool slightly.

15. 15

    While still warm, roll in the spiced sugar until well coated.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.