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, casual brunches, or an indulgent afternoon snack, this cake captures the essence of fall in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake comes together quickly.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich taste of apple cider and warm spices delivers a comforting flavor reminiscent of traditional donuts.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it plain, topped with cinnamon sugar, or paired with your favorite hot beverage.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in, this cake fits right in.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love this sweet treat that’s easy to cut into squares for sharing.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather your tools and ensure you’re prepared. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy 9” square baking dish ensures even cooking and makes it easy to remove the cake after baking.
• Whisk: A whisk helps combine the ingredients smoothly, ensuring a light and fluffy texture in your cake.
• Cooling rack: Allowing the cake to cool on a rack prevents sogginess and helps maintain its texture.

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 the oven to 350°F. Butter (or spray with oil) a 9” square baking dish line it with a piece of parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides to create a sling.

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 ¾ cup. Add the butter to the hot cider, and whisk to combine.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, sour cream, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, and salt.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Slowly whisk the boiled cider into the wet mixture. Stir in the flour until combined.

Step 5: Prepare for Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven until the cake is puffed, golden brown and baked through in the middle—about 22–25 minutes.

Step 6: Cool and Add Toppings

Place the cake on a cooling rack for about five minutes. Place butter on top of the cake and brush it around as it melts. In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the buttered surface.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the cake from the pan and let it cool on a rack. Allow it to cool slightly before cutting into squares for serving. Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving Apple Cider Donut Cake can enhance its delightful flavors and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ideas for serving this delicious treat.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that adds creaminess and balances the cake’s warmth.
• Cinnamon Ice Cream – Elevate the autumn flavors with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for an extra spice kick.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Homemade Caramel – Warm caramel sauce adds a sweet, buttery richness that complements the apple cider flavor.
• Store-bought Caramel – For convenience, drizzle ready-made caramel sauce over the cake before serving.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Apples – Fresh apple slices bring a crunchy texture and tartness that contrasts nicely with the cake.
• Berries – Mixed berries add color and a burst of freshness alongside the rich flavors of the cake.

With Whipped Cream

• Sweetened Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy, whipped cream makes a lovely topping for each slice of cake.
• Cinnamon Whipped Cream – Infuse your whipped cream with cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor that matches the cake.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh apple cider – Fresh cider enhances the flavor significantly compared to store-bought alternatives.
• Don’t overmix – Mix until just combined to avoid a dense texture; this keeps the cake light and fluffy.
• Check doneness – Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
• Cool properly – Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes helps it set before transferring it to a cooling rack.
• Store correctly – Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Donut Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Spiced Chai Latte – The warm spices in chai complement the cinnamon notes of the cake beautifully.
2. Hot Chocolate – A rich hot chocolate is perfect for dipping and adds a cozy touch during colder months.
3. Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup provides a savory contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake.
4. Cheese Platter – Include sharp cheeses like aged cheddar to contrast with the sweet notes of the cake.
5. Carrot Sticks and Hummus – A refreshing crunch from carrot sticks dipped in hummus offers a healthy balance to your dessert spread.
6. Cranberry Salad – Tart cranberry salad adds brightness and acidity, enhancing the overall flavors of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Apple Cider Donut Cake, certain missteps can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the apple cider reduction: Not reducing the apple cider can lead to a cake that lacks depth in flavor. Take the time to boil it down to concentrate those delicious apple notes.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much after adding flour can result in a dense cake. Stir gently until just combined for a light, fluffy texture.

• Ignoring temperature: Using cold ingredients straight from the fridge might cause the butter not to blend well. Let your ingredients come to room temperature for better mixing.

• Incorrect baking times: Every oven is different, and not checking the cake at 22 minutes can lead to overbaking. Use a toothpick test to ensure it’s just right.

• Not allowing cooling time: Cutting into the cake while it’s still hot can result in crumbling. Allow it to cool slightly for cleaner slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat until warmed through, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying your Apple Cider Donut Cake:

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes, store-bought apple cider works perfectly! Just ensure it’s fresh and flavorful.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I add nuts or fruits?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or diced apples can be added for extra texture and flavor.

What pairs well with Apple Cider Donut Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, enhancing your snack experience!

Final Thoughts

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful treat that encapsulates the essence of fall flavors in a simple snack form. Its versatility allows you to customize it with nuts or additional spices. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy its comforting taste!