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 or cozy evenings at home, this delightful dessert captures the essence of fall with its warm spices and sweet apple cider.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe simplifies the donut-making process into a quick cake that anyone can whip up.
• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the classic taste of apple cider donuts in every bite, enhanced by warm spices like cinnamon and allspice.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even a snack with coffee—this cake fits any occasion.
• Minimal Cleanup: One bowl and one pan mean less mess and more time enjoying your treat.
• Shareable Portions: With 12 slices, it’s great for sharing at parties or potlucks!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into creating your Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9” square baking dish: Ideal size for baking a perfectly fluffy cake that holds its shape well.
• Large sauté pan: Essential for reducing the apple cider efficiently without splattering.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing wet ingredients together smoothly.
• Whisk: Ensures a well-blended mixture for an airy texture in the cake.

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. Grease a 9” square baking dish with butter or spray it with oil. Line it with parchment paper long enough to create a sling that hangs over the sides.

Step 2: Reduce Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, boil the apple cider until reduced by half, about 5 minutes. Measure to ensure it is 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. 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 Cider Mixture

Slowly whisk the boiled cider into the wet mixture from Step 3 until well combined.

Step 5: Add Flour

Gently stir in the flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

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

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Place in the preheated oven and bake until puffed and golden brown, about 22–25 minutes.

Step 8: Cool Slightly

Remove from oven and let it cool on a rack for about five minutes.

Step 9: Butter Topping

Spread a tablespoon of butter over the warm cake as it melts.

Step 10: Cinnamon Sugar Sprinkle

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

Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the melted buttered surface of the cake.

Step 11: Remove from Pan

Carefully remove the cake from the pan using the parchment sling and place it back on the cooling rack.

Step 12: Cut into Squares

Allow it to cool slightly before cutting it into squares for serving. Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving Apple Cider Donut Cake can elevate any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. There are many ways to enjoy this delightful treat, making it a versatile choice for dessert lovers.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoy a slice of Apple Cider Donut Cake with your morning coffee. The warm flavors of cinnamon and apple complement the rich taste of coffee beautifully.

Ice Cream Delight

• Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on top. The melting ice cream creates a deliciously creamy contrast to the cake.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Top each slice with fresh whipped cream for added sweetness and texture. A sprinkle of cinnamon on the whipped cream can enhance the flavor even more.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Slice the cake into small squares and arrange them on a platter alongside other seasonal treats like pumpkin pie or pecan bars for an inviting dessert spread.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce over each slice. This adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spiced flavors of the cake.

Serve with Spiced Tea

• Pair this cake with a cup of spiced tea, such as chai or apple cinnamon tea, for a cozy afternoon snack. It’s perfect for chilly days.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips during preparation and baking.

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh cider enhances the flavor significantly compared to store-bought varieties. Look for locally sourced options when possible.
• Measure accurately: Proper measurement of ingredients is crucial. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups to get precise amounts for best results.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour to avoid a tough texture. Overmixing can lead to dense cake.
• Check doneness early: Ovens can vary in temperature; check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time using a toothpick inserted in the center.
• Cool properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring it to a rack. This helps maintain moisture and prevents breakage.
• Store correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake pairs well with various side dishes, enhancing its flavors and creating a satisfying meal experience.

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or brie, complements the sweet flavors of the cake beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring apples, pears, and berries adds freshness and balances out the richness of the cake.
3. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup offers a hearty contrast that pairs nicely with dessert.
4. Roasted Nuts: Serve spiced roasted nuts on the side for added crunch and flavor; they make great finger food too!
5. Chili: For something savory, pair it with chili; its warmth contrasts nicely with the sweet notes of the cake.
6. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: These crispy chips are perfect for dipping into any leftover whipped cream or ice cream served alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Apple Cider Donut Cake, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using warm butter: Melted butter can change the texture of your cake. Always use cold, diced butter for a fluffy result.
• Not reducing the cider enough: Ensure your apple cider is reduced by half before measuring. This intensifies the flavor of the cake.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment prevents sticking. Don’t skip this step for easy removal.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Combine ingredients just until they are blended.
• Ignoring cooling time: Letting the cake cool for a few minutes allows it to set properly. Cutting too soon can make it crumbly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• • Container: Use a glass or plastic container with a tight seal to keep moisture in.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Container: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat slices for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use medium power to heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a moist, flavorful cake inspired by traditional apple cider donuts. It captures that seasonal taste in an easy-to-make snack cake.

Can I customize my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Yes! You can add nuts, raisins, or even different spices like nutmeg or ginger for added flavor.

How do I make my cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it’s suitable for baking to ensure proper texture.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works well if you don’t have fresh cider on hand.

How should I serve this cake?

This cake is perfect as a snack or dessert. Dust with powdered sugar or serve with whipped cream for extra indulgence!

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. Its flavors remind us of fall while being simple enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins or toppings! Enjoy baking this delightful treat and share it with friends and family.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Apple Cider Donut Cake

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with this enticing Apple Cider Donut Cake. This delightful treat captures the essence of classic apple cider donuts, transforming them into a simple yet delicious cake that’s perfect for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive potlucks. With its moist texture and aromatic spices like cinnamon and allspice, every bite is a celebration of autumn. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires minimal cleanup, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or alongside your favorite cup of coffee for an irresistible treat that’s sure to impress.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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
• 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

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a 9” square baking dish with butter and parchment paper.
2. In a large sauté pan, boil apple cider until reduced by half (about 5 minutes). Whisk in diced butter until melted.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugars, oil, sour cream, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
4. Slowly add the reduced cider mixture to the wet ingredients; mix well.
5. Gently fold in the flour until just combined.
6. Pour batter into the prepared dish and bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown.
7. Cool slightly before adding melted butter and sprinkling with cinnamon sugar.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 120mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 50mg