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 fall gatherings, cozy brunches, or a sweet afternoon treat, this cake captures the essence of apple cider donuts in a hassle-free form. With its moist texture and warm spices, it’s sure to become a new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 12 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious cake in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: Infused with fresh apple cider and warming spices, every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or a mid-day snack—this cake fits any occasion.
• Easy to Make: No special baking skills are required; anyone can whip this up successfully.
• Family-Friendly: A delightful treat that both kids and adults will enjoy.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Apple Cider Donut Cake, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and enhances your baking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• 9” square baking dish: Perfect size for even baking and easy serving.
• Large sauté pan: Ideal for reducing the apple cider quickly without spills.
• Medium mixing bowl: Provides ample space for combining wet ingredients easily.
• Whisk: Ensures that your ingredients are well blended for 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) cup 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. Prepare your 9” square baking dish by buttering it or spraying it with oil. Line it with parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides; this will help you lift the cake out later.

Step 2: Reduce Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, bring the fresh apple cider to a boil. Allow it to reduce by half for about 5 minutes. After reducing, measure out ¾ cup of cider. Add the diced butter into the hot cider and whisk until melted and combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. The 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 the wet ingredients while whisking continuously until well combined.

Step 5: Add Flour

Gently stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to a dense cake.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

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

Step 7: Cool and Finish

After baking, place the cake on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes before finishing it off with butter and cinnamon sugar:
1. Place butter on top of the warm cake and let it melt.
2. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon.
3. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the melted butter on top of the cake.

Step 8: Serve It Up

Carefully remove the cake from the pan using the parchment paper sling and let it cool completely on a wire rack before cutting it into squares and serving.

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

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to serve it at a gathering or enjoy it as a cozy snack, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Coffee

• A warm slice of Apple Cider Donut Cake pairs perfectly with a cup of freshly brewed coffee, enhancing the flavors of both.

Afternoon Tea

• Serve the cake alongside your favorite tea for an afternoon pick-me-up. The spices in the cake complement herbal teas beautifully.

À La Mode

• Top a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts into the warm cake, creating a delicious contrast.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an extra touch of sweetness. This combination brings out the rich flavors in the cake.

With Fresh Fruit

• Serve slices alongside fresh apple slices or berries for a refreshing contrast. The fruit adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

As Dessert After Dinner

• This cake is an excellent way to end any meal. Its comforting flavors make it a perfect dessert choice for family gatherings or special occasions.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips that guarantee moistness and flavor.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh apple cider and eggs for the best flavor and texture in your cake.
• Measure Accurately: Precision in measuring ingredients, especially flour and sugars, can significantly affect the final outcome.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light one.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready; if not, bake for additional minutes.
• Allow Cooling Time: Letting the cake cool slightly before cutting helps maintain its structure and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Donut Cake can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds richness and balances the spices in the cake.
2. Maple Syrup: A drizzle of maple syrup provides natural sweetness that complements the apple cider flavor beautifully.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy addition that contrasts nicely with the sweet cake.
4. Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or cheddar, can add savory notes that balance out the sweetness.
5. Chai Tea: This spiced tea enhances the warm flavors of the cake and makes for a comforting pairing.
6. Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted nuts provides crunch and saltiness, contrasting well with the soft texture of the cake.
7. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad adds freshness and acidity that brightens up each bite of cake.
8. Hot Chocolate: For colder days, hot chocolate offers warmth and indulgence alongside your slice of Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Apple Cider Donut Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the perfect cake.

• Bold mismeasuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the correct amounts.
• Bold skipping the apple cider reduction: Reducing the apple cider intensifies the flavor. Don’t skip this step; it’s essential for achieving that rich taste.
• Bold overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Bold neglecting to cool properly: Letting your cake cool in the pan can lead to sogginess. Always transfer it to a cooling rack as soon as it’s safe to do so.
• Bold forgetting cinnamon sugar topping: The cinnamon sugar adds a delightful finish. Don’t forget this step; sprinkle generously over the melted butter for maximum flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and 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, cover, and warm for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Apple Cider Donut Cake more flavorful?

You can enhance flavor by adding extra spices like nutmeg or using fresh grated ginger along with cinnamon.

Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. Just keep in mind that this may affect texture.

How long does Apple Cider Donut Cake last?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer.

Is it possible to customize this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips for added texture and flavor variations.

What’s the best way to serve Apple Cider Donut Cake?

This cake is delightful served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.

Conclusion

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only simple but also captures all the cozy flavors of fall in every bite. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite add-ins or toppings. Try making it today and enjoy its delightful taste!

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