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 cozy gatherings, brunches, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, this cake captures the essence of fall in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No frying required! This cake combines all the flavors of apple cider donuts without the hassle.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich apple cider and warm spices create a delightful taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it plain for a quick snack any time of day.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 generous slices, this cake is ideal for gatherings and celebrations.
• Seasonal Favorite: Embrace the flavors of autumn with every slice of this tasty dessert.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Apple Cider Donut Cake, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving the perfect texture and flavor.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A square dish ensures even baking and makes it easy to cut perfect squares.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly, ensuring no lumps remain in your batter.
• Cooling Rack: Allows air circulation around the cake, preventing sogginess as it cools.

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 your oven to 350°F. Butter or spray with oil a 9” square baking dish. 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 you have about ¾ cup. Add the diced 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. Coarse kosher salt

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Slowly whisk in the boiled cider into the wet mixture until fully combined.

Step 5: Add Flour

Stir in the flour gently until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven until puffed and golden brown, about 22–25 minutes.

Step 8: Cool Slightly

Place the cake on a cooling rack for about five minutes after removing from the oven.

Step 9: Add Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

Place butter on top of the warm cake and brush it around as it melts. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon, then sprinkle it liberally over the melted butter.

Step 10: Remove from Pan

Carefully remove the cake from the pan using parchment paper and let it cool on a rack.

Step 11: Slice and Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting it into squares for serving!

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving your Apple Cider Donut Cake can elevate its deliciousness and make it a delightful treat for any occasion. Here are some creative suggestions to enhance your serving experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm flavors of the cake, creating a comforting dessert.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and a rich flavor that complements the apple cider.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Fresh whipped cream provides a light and airy contrast to the dense cake, balancing the flavors beautifully.

Served with Fresh Apples

• Slices of fresh apple can add a crunchy texture and enhance the apple flavor in the cake.

Accompanied by Hot Beverages

• Pair this cake with a hot drink like coffee or spiced cider for a cozy treat during chilly days.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

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

• Use fresh apple cider: The fresher the cider, the better the flavor. Look for local or freshly pressed options for maximum taste.

• Measure accurately: Precision in measuring your ingredients ensures consistent results. Using kitchen scales can help achieve this.

• Don’t overmix: Gently combine your ingredients to retain the cake’s light texture. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing the cake to cool thoroughly helps it set properly and makes slicing easier without crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Adding side dishes can create a complete meal experience alongside your Apple Cider Donut Cake. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie, pairs well with the sweet notes of the cake.

2. Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette balances out the sweetness and adds freshness to your meal.

3. Pumpkin Soup: This warm soup complements fall flavors perfectly and makes for a hearty side dish.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a savory contrast that enhances every bite of sweet cake.

5. Yogurt Parfait: Layers of yogurt and granola add texture and creaminess, making it an excellent brunch option.

6. Spiced Nut Mix: A simple mix of spiced nuts offers crunch and savory notes that pair nicely with dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using fresh apple cider: Not using fresh apple cider can lead to a lack of flavor. Always opt for fresh cider for the best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your cake dense and tough. Mix until just combined to maintain a light texture.
• Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the cake’s rise and texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can result in a crumbly mess. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing for cleaner pieces.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Inaccurate measurements can throw off the recipe. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

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

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap the cake in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• 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, flipping occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes, you can use store-bought apple cider if fresh isn’t available. Just ensure it’s not too sweet.

How do I make my Apple Cider Donut Cake gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I add nuts or other ingredients to my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a delightful crunch. You could also mix in raisins or dried cranberries for added flavor.

What should I serve with my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is also a delicious addition!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only easy to prepare, but it also captures all the cozy flavors of fall in every bite. With its warm spices and sweet glaze, it’s sure to satisfy any craving! Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins like nuts or fruits for an extra twist. Enjoy this delightful treat any time of day!