Apple Cider Donut Cake

Love Apple Cider Donuts but don’t want to go through the steps to make them? This Apple Cider Donut Cake is the answer! It has all the flavor of our favorite seasonal treat, but made as a super easy snack cake. Perfect for family gatherings, fall celebrations, or just a cozy afternoon at home, this cake stands out with its moist texture and delightful spices.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: You can whip up this Apple Cider Donut Cake in no time, making it perfect for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy all the warm spices and apple cider goodness in every bite, just like traditional apple cider donuts.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack – it fits any occasion beautifully.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: With 12 servings, it’s great for sharing with friends and family!
• Easily Customizable: Add nuts or a glaze to make it your own, or serve with ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9” square baking dish
• Large sauté pan
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cooling rack
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• 9” square baking dish: This is perfect for even baking and easy slicing of your cake.
• Large sauté pan: Essential for reducing the apple cider to intensify its flavor before combining it with other ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps combine your ingredients smoothly without lumps, crucial for achieving a light cake texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1-½ cups fresh apple cider
– 4 tablespoons (66 grams) cold unsalted butter, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/3 cup (70 grams) granulated sugar
– ½ cup (110 grams) lightly packed brown sugar
– 1/3 cup (70 grams) light olive oil (or other neutral oil)
– ¼ cup (66 grams) sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
– 1-½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 1-½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
– Pinch allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt (if using fine sea salt use half by volume)
– 1-¾ cups (210 grams) all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon butter, at cool room temperature
– ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Butter (or spray with oil) a 9” square baking dish. Line it with a piece of parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides to create a sling.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, bring the apple cider to a boil until reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Measure to ensure you have ¾ cup. Add the diced butter to the hot cider and whisk until combined.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
2 large eggs
1/3 cup (70 grams) granulated sugar
½ cup (110 grams) lightly packed brown sugar
1/3 cup (70 grams) light olive oil
¼ cup (66 grams) sour cream
1-½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1-½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
Pinch allspice
1/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt

Slowly whisk in the boiled cider mixture until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Stir in:
1-¾ cups (210 grams) all-purpose flour

Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven until puffed and golden brown, about 22–25 minutes.

Step 6: Cool and Finish

Once baked, place the cake on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes.
Place an additional tablespoon of butter on top of the warm cake and brush it around as it melts.

In a small bowl, mix together:
¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the melted butter on the cake. Remove from pan and let cool completely before cutting into squares.

Now enjoy your amazing homemade Apple Cider Donut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving your Apple Cider Donut Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this seasonal treat.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture complements the warm cake perfectly.
• Cinnamon ice cream: Adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the apple cider notes.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Warm caramel sauce: Pour it generously over each slice for a rich, sweet touch.
• Homemade caramel: Try making your own for an artisanal flair.

Paired with Fresh Apples

• Sliced apples: Serve alongside fresh apple slices for a refreshing crunch.
• Baked apple slices: Warm baked apples with cinnamon will enhance the cake’s flavors.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Sweetened whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds lightness and sweetness.
• Cinnamon-spiced whipped cream: Mix in some cinnamon for a themed twist.

Enjoyed with Hot Beverages

• Apple cider: Pair your cake with a warm cup of apple cider for a cozy experience.
• Coffee or tea: A hot drink balances the sweetness and complements the flavors.

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How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake turns out delicious every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh cider enhances the flavor, making it more robust and aromatic.
• Measure accurately: Precise measurements ensure the right texture and taste in your cake.
• Don’t overmix: Stir just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done baking.
• Let it cool properly: Cooling on a rack allows steam to escape, keeping the cake from becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Donut Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie pairs beautifully.
2. Candied Nuts: Sweet and crunchy nuts add texture and contrast to the soft cake.
3. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad balances the richness of the cake while adding freshness.
4. Pumpkin Spice Cookies: These seasonal cookies complement the flavors of apple and spice in the cake.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cake into warm chocolate for an indulgent treat.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and sweet, these chips are perfect for dipping into frosting or cream.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Apple Cider Donut Cake can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls that can affect your final product. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the cider reduction: Not reducing the apple cider can lead to a cake that’s too wet and lacks flavor. Always boil it down to concentrate the taste.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Stir just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Incorrect baking time: Baking for too long or not long enough can result in a dry or undercooked cake. Use a toothpick test to check for doneness.
• Neglecting to prepare the pan: Failing to butter or line your baking dish may cause the cake to stick. Always use parchment paper or grease the pan well.
• Not cooling properly: Cutting into the cake while it’s too hot can lead to crumbling. Let it cool on a rack before slicing.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Place wax paper between layers if stacking pieces to prevent sticking.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Apple Cider Donut Cake:

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes, store-bought apple cider works well! Just ensure it’s fresh and not overly sweetened.

How can I make this Apple Cider Donut Cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Adjust as necessary based on your blend’s instructions.

What spices can I add to enhance the flavor?

Consider adding nutmeg or cloves alongside cinnamon for an extra kick of flavor.

How do I know when my Apple Cider Donut Cake is done?

The cake is done when it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake captures all the flavors of traditional apple cider donuts in an easy-to-make snack. Perfectly spiced and incredibly moist, it’s versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or drizzling with icing. Give this delightful recipe a try—you won’t regret it!