SULLIVAN, Ill. (WAND) - In Sullivan, fall means one thing at Okaw Valley Orchard—fresh, warm apple cider donuts.

Co-owner Jennifer Mitchell says this is the orchard’s busiest time of year, welcoming school tours and families who return annually for their favorite fall treat.

“We make apple cider every week,” she explained. “And we use that cider right in our apple donuts.”

That cider is the star ingredient in a recipe dating back to the 1990s. Roughly 30 donuts roll out of the fryer every hour, coated in glaze or cinnamon sugar. Getting them just right is an art—everything from the oil level to the sugar coating matters.

But for Jennifer and her husband Mike, the donuts are more than just a recipe.

“We are very honored that people choose to come out and make this part of their traditi

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