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 simply indulging in a sweet moment, this cake brings the delightful taste of apple cider donuts into a convenient and shareable form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Apple Cider Donut Cake comes together in no time with minimal fuss.
• Delicious Flavor: Infused with fresh apple cider and warm spices, each bite is packed with seasonal goodness.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a breakfast option, an afternoon snack, or a dessert at any gathering.
• No Frying Required: Skip the mess of frying donuts; this cake bakes perfectly in the oven.
• Shareable Delight: Slice it up for parties or family gatherings—everyone will love it!

Tools and Preparation

To make this Apple Cider Donut Cake, having the right tools on hand will help streamline your baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch square baking dish: The perfect size for even baking and easy slicing of your cake.
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without lumps, ensuring a light texture.
• Cooling rack: Helps cool the cake evenly, preventing sogginess on the bottom.

Ingredients

To prepare this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather the following 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. Prepare a 9-inch square baking dish by buttering it or spraying with oil. 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 ¾ cup. Add the diced butter to the hot cider and whisk until fully combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium 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 whisk the boiled cider mixture into your wet ingredients until well incorporated.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients

Stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 6: Pour Batter into Baking Dish

Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish evenly.

Step 7: Bake in Preheated Oven

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

Step 8: Cool Slightly

Let the cake cool on a cooling rack for 5 minutes before proceeding.

Step 9: Add Butter Topping

Place cool room temperature butter on top of the warm cake and brush it around as it melts across the surface.

Step 10: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. ¼ cup granulated sugar
2. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the buttered surface for extra sweetness.

Step 11: Remove from Pan

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

Step 12: Slice and Serve

Allow to cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving to your guests—or enjoy one yourself!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving Apple Cider Donut Cake can elevate any gathering or simply make your evening more enjoyable. Here are some delightful ways to serve this scrumptious cake.

With Whipped Cream

• For a rich touch, top each slice with freshly whipped cream. This adds a light and airy contrast to the dense cake.

Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pairing a warm slice of the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delicious combination of flavors and textures.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar can enhance the visual appeal while adding a sweet finish that complements the spices in the cake.

Served with Fresh Apples

• Slice up some fresh apples on the side for a refreshing crunch. This works particularly well with tart varieties like Granny Smith.

Alongside Hot Apple Cider

• For an immersive experience, serve your cake with a warm mug of apple cider. The flavors will harmonize beautifully, creating a cozy atmosphere.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

Making the perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake involves attention to detail and following some simple tips to ensure success.

• Use Fresh Apple Cider: The flavor of your cake greatly depends on the quality of the cider. Fresh, unfiltered cider provides the best taste.
• Measure Ingredients Precisely: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor balance in your cake.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when baked properly.
• Let It Cool: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before slicing helps maintain its shape and enhances its flavor as it settles.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

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

1. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai complement the cinnamon and apple flavors beautifully.
2. Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup offers a comforting contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can provide a savory balance alongside sweet slices of cake.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness and acidity, making it an excellent companion to rich desserts.
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice adds decadence that pairs wonderfully with apple flavors.
6. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer crunch and complexity that enhance every bite of cake.
7. Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of hot chocolate makes for a cozy beverage choice that pairs well during cooler months.
8. Herbal Tea: Light herbal teas can cleanse the palate and offer a soothing finish after enjoying your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Apple Cider Donut Cake, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure the best results.

• Using too much flour: Adding more flour than necessary can make the cake dense. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy or spoon and level the flour.
• Not measuring the apple cider correctly: If you don’t reduce the apple cider properly, it can affect the flavor and moisture levels. Always measure after boiling down.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the cake while it’s still hot can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a tough texture. Mix just until combined for a lighter cake.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a pan over low heat, covering with a lid, and heat gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Apple Cider Donut Cake that might help you as you prepare this delicious treat.

Can I use other types of apple juice instead of cider?

Yes, you can substitute apple juice, but cider provides a richer flavor profile.

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

The cake is done when it’s puffed and golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

What is the best way to serve Apple Cider Donut Cake?

This cake is great on its own or served with whipped cream or ice cream for added indulgence.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only simple to make but also captures the essence of fall flavors in every bite. With its delightful sweetness and moist texture, it’s perfect for gatherings or as an afternoon treat. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or drizzling caramel sauce on top!