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 gatherings, cozy evenings, or an afternoon pick-me-up, this cake captures the essence of fall in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up this cake in just over half an hour.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apple cider and warm spices creates a comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-day snack. Serve it at parties or enjoy it with your coffee!
• No Special Equipment Needed: You can make this cake using basic kitchen tools you already have on hand.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe yields 12 slices, making it ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking dish (9” square)
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Ensures that your batter is smooth and well-mixed.
• Baking dish: A good quality dish helps in even baking of your cake.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the cake, preventing sogginess.

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Ingredients

To make this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 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

For Topping

• 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 a 9” square baking dish and line it with parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides to create a sling.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

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

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Eggs
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar
4. Olive oil
5. Sour cream
6. Baking powder
7. Baking soda
8. Ground cinnamon
9. Allspice
10. Salt

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Slowly whisk the boiled cider mixture into the wet ingredients until well combined.

Step 5: Add Flour

Stir in the flour until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven until puffed, golden brown, and baked through in the middle—about 22–25 minutes.

Step 7: Cool

Place the cake on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes before topping it with butter.

Step 8: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the buttered surface of your warm cake.

Step 9: Final Touches

Remove from pan and let cool on a rack before slicing into squares.

With these simple steps, you’ll have a delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, this cake serves as a versatile dessert that pairs well with many accompaniments.

With Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a light and airy contrast to the dense cake.

With Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices alongside vanilla or caramel ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pair with sliced apples or pears to enhance the flavors and add a refreshing crunch to each bite.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy slices with your favorite hot beverage for a cozy afternoon snack.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for an elegant presentation and added sweetness.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

For an exceptional Apple Cider Donut Cake, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance your baking experience and improve the final product.

• Use Fresh Apple Cider: Fresh cider provides the best flavor. Look for locally pressed options if available.
• Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements ensure the right texture. Use dry measuring cups for flour and liquid measuring cups for cider.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined to avoid a tough cake. A few lumps are okay!
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick in the center of the cake; it should come out clean when baked through.
• Cool Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool enhances its flavors and makes it easier to slice.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pair your Apple Cider Donut Cake with complementary side dishes that elevate this sweet treat. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Spiced Nuts: A mix of roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon adds crunch and warmth.
2. Cinnamon Applesauce: Serve warm applesauce spiced with cinnamon for a comforting match.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over slices for added sweetness.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt and granola in glasses alongside cake slices for a balanced meal.
5. Cheese Platter: Offer sharp cheddar or brie cheese to provide savory contrast to the sweet cake.
6. Salad with Vinaigrette: A light mixed green salad dressed with apple cider vinaigrette refreshes your palate after dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Apple Cider Donut Cake can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final outcome. Here are some tips to help you avoid them:

• Bold measurement errors: Always double-check your measurements. Using too much or too little of an ingredient can alter the texture and taste of your cake.
• Bold ignoring the butter temperature: Ensure your butter is cold when adding it to the apple cider. This helps create a moist cake and prevents it from becoming greasy.
• Bold not whisking enough: When combining wet ingredients, make sure they are well-mixed. Inadequate whisking can lead to uneven baking and inconsistent flavor.
• Bold improper baking time: Keep an eye on the baking time. Every oven is different; start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking.
• Bold skipping parchment paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment paper is crucial. It makes removing the cake easier and prevents sticking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• For best quality, freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the cake on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about making an Apple Cider Donut Cake? Here are some answers!

Can I use other types of cider?

Yes, you can experiment with different fruit juices or flavored ciders for unique variations!

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well for baking.

What should I serve with Apple Cider Donut Cake?

This delightful cake pairs well with coffee or tea, making it perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

You can add nuts or dried fruits to the batter for added texture and flavor depth.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only easy to make but also deliciously captures the essence of fall. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it with various toppings or mix-ins like nuts or spices. Give it a try and delight in this seasonal treat!