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 or an afternoon treat, this cake captures the essence of fall in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the process, giving you a delicious cake without the hassle of frying donuts.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of fresh apple cider and spices creates a moist and flavorful dessert that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack throughout the day.
• Great for Gatherings: Serve it at parties, potlucks, or family get-togethers—this cake is sure to impress!
• Kid-Friendly: A delightful treat that kids will love, making it a fun baking project for family time.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes baking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need for this Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9” square baking dish: Ideal for even baking and easy removal of your cake.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and helps with cleanup by creating a sling for removal.
• Whisk: Essential for combining wet ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth batter.

Ingredients

To make your Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather these 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 your oven to 350°F. Butter or spray with oil a 9” square baking dish and 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, boil the apple cider until reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Measure to ensure it is 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:
* The eggs,
* Granulated sugar,
* Brown sugar,
* Olive oil,
* Sour cream,
* Baking powder,
* Baking soda,
* Ground cinnamon,
* Allspice,
* And salt.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Slowly whisk the boiled cider into the wet mixture until fully incorporated. Then stir in the flour until just combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

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

Step 6: Cool and Add Topping

After baking, place your cake on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes. Place butter on top of the warm cake; brush it around as it melts.

Step 7: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the buttered surface.

Step 8: Final Cooling

Remove the cake from the pan using the parchment sling. Let it cool on a rack before cutting into squares for serving. 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 several ways. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this cake’s warm flavors pair perfectly with various accompaniments.

With Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy a slice of Apple Cider Donut Cake alongside your morning coffee or afternoon tea for a cozy pick-me-up.

Ice Cream Topping

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

Fresh Fruit

• Pair the cake with sliced apples or mixed berries to add a refreshing contrast to the sweet flavors.

Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top makes for a light and airy complement to the dense cake.

Maple Syrup Drizzle

• Drizzle pure maple syrup over the cake for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor depth.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To elevate your Apple Cider Donut Cake, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that every bite is moist and flavorful.

• Use Fresh Cider: Opt for fresh apple cider rather than bottled juice; it enhances the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is calibrated correctly; an accurate temperature is crucial for even baking.
• Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its structure.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate if you prefer it chilled.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

When serving Apple Cider Donut Cake, pairing it with side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses pairs wonderfully with the sweet notes of the cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits for a balanced breakfast option.
3. Salad Greens: Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the cake’s sweetness.
4. Roasted Nuts: Serve seasoned nuts as a crunchy side that complements the soft texture of the cake.
5. Chia Seed Pudding: A light pudding made with almond milk offers a nutritious contrast to the richness of the cake.
6. Caramelized Bananas: Sweet bananas caramelized in butter provide an indulgent side that pairs well with apple flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Apple Cider Donut Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the cider reduction – Not reducing the apple cider can lead to a lack of concentrated flavor in your cake. Always boil the cider until it’s reduced by half for the best taste.

• Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can make the cake tough instead of tender. Mix just until all ingredients are combined for a fluffy texture.

• Not measuring accurately – Using incorrect measurements can ruin your cake’s texture and taste. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.

• Ignoring oven temperature – Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven properly to ensure consistent results.

• Cutting before cooling – Cutting into the cake too soon can lead to crumbling. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing for clean cuts.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The Apple Cider Donut Cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of oil?

Yes, you can substitute light olive oil with any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil without affecting the flavor significantly.

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

The cake is done when it is puffed, golden, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Can I add nuts or fruits to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can customize your Apple Cider Donut Cake by adding chopped nuts or diced apples for added texture and flavor.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

This cake is delicious on its own but can be served with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

How do I store leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days or freeze it for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only easy to make but also captures the comforting flavors of fall. This versatile dessert allows you to customize it with nuts or fruits as you desire. Give this delightful recipe a try and enjoy a slice of seasonal goodness!