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 a cozy night in, this cake offers a delightful blend of spices and sweetness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake can be whipped up in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: The warm spices and fresh apple cider create a comforting flavor reminiscent of classic apple cider donuts.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for fall celebrations, brunches, or even as an everyday treat with coffee or tea.
• Moist and Tender: The addition of sour cream keeps the cake moist, ensuring every bite is soft and flavorful.
• Make Ahead Option: This cake stays fresh for days, making it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch square baking dish: The right size ensures even baking and helps the cake rise properly.
• Large sauté pan: Perfect for boiling down the apple cider to concentrate its flavor without burning it.
• Whisk: Essential for blending the wet ingredients smoothly to avoid lumps in your batter.

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. 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, which takes about 5 minutes. Measure to ensure you have ¾ cup remaining. Add the diced butter to the hot cider and whisk until combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
* Eggs
* Granulated sugar
* Brown sugar
* Olive oil
* Sour cream
* Baking powder
* Baking soda
* Ground cinnamon
* Allspice
* Salt

Slowly add in the boiled cider mixture while whisking.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Stir in:
* All-purpose flour

Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake

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

Step 6: Cool and Top

Place the cake on a cooling rack for 5 minutes. While it’s still warm, place cool room temperature butter on top of the cake and brush it around as it melts.

Step 7: Add Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together:
* Granulated sugar
* Ground cinnamon

Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the melted butter on top of your cake.

Step 8: Final Touches

Remove the cake from the pan using the parchment sling and let it cool completely on a rack. Allow it to cool slightly before cutting it into squares.

Now you have an incredible Apple Cider Donut Cake that is sure to delight! Enjoy with family and friends or savor it all by yourself!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving Apple Cider Donut Cake can elevate your dessert experience. This cake is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

With Whipped Cream

• Serve a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for added creaminess that complements the spices in the cake.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A warm drizzle of caramel sauce adds a sweet touch, making it feel even more indulgent and festive.

Accompanied by Fresh Apples

• Slice fresh apples to serve alongside the cake. Their crispness provides a nice contrast to the soft texture of the cake.

With a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pairing with vanilla ice cream creates a delightful temperature contrast, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• A light dusting of powdered sugar on top gives a simple yet elegant finish, making it visually appealing for guests.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

Perfecting your Apple Cider Donut Cake is easy with a few helpful tips. These suggestions will ensure you achieve the best results every time.

• Use Fresh Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider enhances the overall flavor, making your cake taste more vibrant and seasonal.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid a dense cake. Too much flour can dry it out.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.

• Check for Doneness: Test with a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

• Cool Before Serving: Letting the cake cool slightly before slicing helps it set and makes cutting easier.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Donut Cake can create an enjoyable meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Crisp Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and light vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the cake.

2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as carrots and squash complement the warm spices in the cake while providing color and flavor.

3. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie, adds richness that pairs well with the spiced notes of the cake.

4. Spiced Hot Cider: Serve warm spiced cider as a comforting drink that echoes the flavors in your donut cake.

5. Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup serves as a savory starter that pairs beautifully with dessert flavors.

6. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and fruit for a light dessert that adds texture and creaminess without overpowering the cake’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Apple Cider Donut Cake can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to suboptimal results. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Incorrect Measurement: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much flour can make the cake dry. Use a kitchen scale for precision.

• Not Reducing the Cider: Skipping the step of boiling down the apple cider can result in a bland flavor. Ensure you reduce it by half to concentrate the taste.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing the batter too much can create a tough texture. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy cake.

• Skipping Parchment Paper: Not lining your baking dish can lead to sticking. Always use parchment paper for easy removal and clean-up.

• Underbaking the Cake: It’s crucial to bake until the cake is fully set. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean from the center.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, wrap slices in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it to retain moisture, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake, find answers below!

Can I use other types of cider?

Yes! While apple cider is traditional, feel free to experiment with pear or other fruit ciders for unique flavors.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it’s a one-to-one replacement for best results.

Can I add nuts or fruit?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or diced apples can add great texture and flavor. Just fold them into the batter gently before baking.

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

Serve it warm with a dusting of cinnamon sugar or alongside vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is an easy yet delightful dessert that captures all the cozy flavors of fall. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various additions like nuts or fruits, making it perfect for any occasion. Try it today and enjoy every bite!