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, fall celebrations, or simply a delightful afternoon snack, this cake captures the essence of autumn in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe allows you to whip up a delicious cake without fuss.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider and spices creates a rich taste that rivals traditional donuts.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with a cup of coffee, or serve it as a dessert at your next gathering.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or just a cozy night in, this cake fits right in.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its delightful aroma and sweet taste, everyone will be asking for seconds!

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Tools and Preparation

To create this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake, you’ll need some essential tools that will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

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: Ideal size for even baking and easy serving.
• Large sauté pan: Perfect for reducing the apple cider quickly and evenly.
• Whisk: Ensures all ingredients blend smoothly without lumps.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation for even cooling, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather 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 the 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 your oven to 350°F. Prepare your 9” square baking dish by buttering it or spraying it with oil. Line it with parchment paper that hangs over the sides to create a sling for easy removal.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, bring the fresh apple cider to a boil. Let it reduce until it’s about half its original volume, which should take around 5 minutes. Measure to ensure you have approximately ¾ cup. Add the diced butter into the hot cider and whisk until fully combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Two large 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 add the boiled cider mixture into your wet ingredients while whisking constantly to combine.

Step 5: Add Flour

Gently stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

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

Step 7: Cool and Top

Let the cake cool on a rack for about five minutes after removing it from the oven. Brush one tablespoon of cool room temperature butter on top while it’s still warm.

Step 8: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar with one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the buttered surface of your cake.

Step 9: Final Cooling

Remove the cake from the pan using the parchment sling. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before cutting it into squares for serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, these suggestions will enhance your experience.

With a Cup of Coffee

• Pairing your cake with a warm cup of coffee complements the flavors perfectly. The rich notes of coffee balance the sweetness of the cake.

Topped with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on top creates a delicious contrast. The cold ice cream melts into the warm cake for an indulgent dessert.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce elevates the sweetness and provides a lovely texture. This combination adds a touch of elegance to your serving.

Served with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream is a classic topping. It enhances the flavors without overwhelming them, making each bite heavenly.

Accompanied by Fresh Apples

• Slices of fresh apples on the side bring out the apple flavor in the cake. They add a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of the cake.

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: Fresh cider makes a significant difference in flavor. Look for local varieties to enhance the taste.

• Measure Accurately: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right texture. Use standard measuring cups and spoons for best results.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined for a tender crumb. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake that isn’t as enjoyable.

• Check Oven Temperature: An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate baking temperatures. This prevents under or over-baking your cake.

• Cool Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool slightly helps it set and makes it easier to cut into squares without crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Donut Cake can create a well-rounded meal or snack experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang, balancing out the sweetness of the cake.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses offers savory contrasts that enhance the overall flavor profile.
3. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and acidity, complementing the richness of the cake.
4. Chai Tea: The spices in chai tea harmonize beautifully with cinnamon flavors in the cake, creating a comforting pairing.
5. Spiced Nuts: A mix of spiced nuts provides crunch and depth, making each bite more interesting.
6. Hot Chocolate: For a cozy option, hot chocolate pairs well, especially during fall and winter months.
7. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A light drizzle adds sweetness while enhancing apple flavors; perfect for those who love maple!
8. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: These offer an added crunch and extra sweetness that complements your dessert delightfully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Cider Donut Cake can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using stale ingredients – Fresh ingredients ensure the best flavor and texture. Always check your baking powder and spices for freshness before starting.
• Not measuring accurately – Baking is a science, and precise measurements matter. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accurate results.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Combine the ingredients just until they are blended for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the cooling time – Allowing the cake to cool properly helps it set and makes cutting easier. Don’t rush this step!
• Ignoring oven temperature – Ovens can vary in temperature. Use an oven thermometer to ensure it’s at the right heat for baking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for 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.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, then warm slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delicious dessert that captures the flavor of traditional apple cider donuts but is made as an easy snack cake.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes, using store-bought apple cider works perfectly fine for making Apple Cider Donut Cake. Just ensure it’s fresh.

How do I customize my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

You can add nuts, raisins, or even caramel drizzle on top for added flavor and texture to your Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend to create a gluten-free version of Apple Cider Donut Cake.

What should I serve with my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only easy to make but also brings the cozy flavors of autumn right into your kitchen. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed alone or shared with friends, this delightful treat is sure to please everyone. Give it a try today!