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 afternoons, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee, this cake combines the comforting taste of apple cider with warm spices to create a delightful experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this cake in no time!
• Delicious Flavor: The rich flavors of apple cider and spices provide a warm, comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or as an afternoon snack — this cake fits any occasion.
• Perfectly Moist: Thanks to the apple cider and butter, each slice is incredibly moist and tender.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet treat, making it an ideal family recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more 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: Perfect for achieving that ideal cake shape and size.
• Large sauté pan: Used for boiling down the apple cider to concentrate its flavor.
• Whisk: Ensures that all ingredients are well combined for a smooth batter.

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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 a 9” square baking dish by greasing it with butter or cooking spray. Line it with parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides; this will help you lift the cake out later.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, bring the fresh apple cider to a boil. Let it reduce by half, which should take about 5 minutes. Measure out to ensure you have about ¾ cup remaining. Add diced butter into the hot cider and whisk until combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. 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

Once mixed well, slowly incorporate the boiled cider mixture into the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish evenly. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for about 22–25 minutes until puffed up and golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Finish

Allow the cake to cool on a rack for about five minutes after removing it from the oven. Place additional butter on top while it’s still warm so it melts evenly.

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar with ground cinnamon and sprinkle generously over the melted butter on top of your cake.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Carefully remove your cake from the pan using the parchment paper as handles. Let it cool slightly 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 various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon snack, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pairing this cake with a warm cup of coffee enhances its flavors and provides a comforting contrast.
• Tea: A soothing herbal or spiced tea complements the cinnamon notes of the cake beautifully.
• Hot Apple Cider: For an extra apple kick, serve with warm apple cider, especially on chilly days.

As a Breakfast Treat

• With Yogurt: Serve slices alongside Greek yogurt for a balanced breakfast that combines protein and sweetness.
• Topped with Fresh Fruit: Add seasonal fruits like berries or sliced apples to make for a refreshing morning meal.

For Dessert

• A La Mode: Top warm slices with vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert experience that melts in your mouth.
• Drizzled with Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel adds an indulgent twist, making each bite even more enjoyable.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

Making the perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake is simple if you follow these helpful tips. These tricks will ensure your cake turns out moist and flavorful every time.

• Use Fresh Cider: The fresher the apple cider, the more intense the flavor in your cake will be. Opt for local apple cider if possible.
• Measure Your Ingredients Accurately: Precise measurements are crucial for baking success; use kitchen scales for best results.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake; it should come out clean when done baking.
• Cool Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before cutting helps maintain its structure and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Donut Cake can enhance its already wonderful taste and provide variety to your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Granola Parfait: Layers of granola, yogurt, and fruit create a satisfying texture contrast.
3. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon or nutmeg offer crunch and warmth alongside your cake.
4. Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses provides savory notes that complement the sweet flavors of the cake.
5. Savory Scones: Cheese or herb scones add another layer of flavor that pairs well with sweet desserts.
6. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup brings comforting fall flavors that match perfectly with apple cider delights.
7. Chai Spiced Oatmeal: This warming dish echoes the spices in your cake, making it an ideal breakfast pairing.
8. Vegetable Quiche: A slice of quiche adds protein and veggies for a more substantial meal option alongside dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Cider Donut Cake can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Boldly measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups properly to ensure consistency in your cake.
• Ignoring the butter temperature: Using cold butter instead of room temperature can affect texture. Make sure your butter is cool but not hard when mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
• Not checking for doneness: Every oven is different. Use a toothpick to test for doneness; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
• Skipping the cooling: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before serving helps flavors develop and makes cutting easier. Don’t rush this step!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator 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 for about 10 minutes for best results.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Can I use other types of cider?

Yes! You can experiment with different fruit ciders, but apple cider gives the best flavor.

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

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

You can substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream for a vegan version.

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

Serve it warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for extra flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful twist on a classic favorite, perfect as a snack or dessert. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various spices or toppings based on your preference. Try it today and enjoy all the comforting flavors of fall!