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 any time you crave something sweet, this cake stands out with its moist texture and delightful cinnamon flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this cake in no time.
• Delicious Flavor: Infused with fresh apple cider and warm spices, it captures the essence of fall in every bite.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with a drizzle of glaze or enjoy it plain as a delightful snack any time of day.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into squares for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings; everyone will love it!
• No Complicated Techniques: Skip the frying and mess; this cake offers all the goodness without the hassle.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into our delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

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: This size is perfect for even baking and easy slicing into squares.
• Large sauté pan: Ideal for reducing apple cider quickly while maintaining flavor intensity.
• Whisk: Ensures thorough mixing of wet ingredients for a smooth batter.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the cake so it cools evenly without getting soggy.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake, you’ll need the following 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 the 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 and line it with parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides to create a sling.

Step 2: Reduce the 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 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

Slowly whisk in the boiled cider mixture until fully blended.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Stir in flour until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake in your preheated oven until puffed and golden brown—about 22-25 minutes.

Step 6: Cool and Add Topping

Once baked:
1. Place on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes.
2. Brush cool room temperature butter on top of the warm cake as it melts.
3. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon; sprinkle generously over the buttered surface.

Step 7: Final Touches

Remove from pan and let cool on a rack for easier cutting. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various delightful ways to enhance its flavors and make your dessert experience even better.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm, spiced cake, creating a comforting contrast in temperature and flavor.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A rich caramel sauce adds sweetness and complements the cinnamon notes in the cake perfectly.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream enhances the cake’s moist texture while adding a touch of elegance to your serving.

As a Breakfast Treat

• Enjoy slices of this cake alongside your morning coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast option.

With Fresh Fruit

• Slices of apple or pear can add a refreshing crunch to your dessert table, balancing the sweetness of the cake.

Dusted with Powdered Sugar

• A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a beautiful finish and extra sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake turns out perfect every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh apple cider: The flavor shines through better when you use high-quality, fresh apple cider instead of bottled alternatives.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Use precise measurements for all ingredients to maintain the right balance of flavors and textures in your cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture rather than a light, fluffy cake.

• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs for perfect doneness.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the cake to cool slightly helps maintain its structure and makes cutting easier without crumbling.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

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

1. Spiced Apples: Warmed spiced apples cooked in cinnamon and sugar offer a complementary sweet-tart flavor that balances the richness of the cake.

2. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A drizzle of pure maple syrup adds an earthy sweetness that enhances the cake’s flavors beautifully.

3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fresh fruit for a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the sweet cake.

4. Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses can provide a savory counterpart to the sweetness of the donut cake, making for an interesting flavor combination.

5. Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai tea resonate well with those in the cake, creating a cozy pairing perfect for chilly days.

6. Nut Mix: Serve a bowl of lightly salted mixed nuts alongside for added texture and saltiness that complements the sweetness of the dessert.

7. Cinnamon Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of cinnamon-infused hot chocolate will create an indulgent treat alongside your dessert.

8. Fruit Salad: A bright fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides freshness and acidity that balances out the richness of each slice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home bakers encounter pitfalls when making Apple Cider Donut Cake. Here are some mistakes to watch for and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the cider reduction: Not reducing the apple cider can lead to a cake that lacks depth in flavor. Always reduce it by half for maximum taste.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense and tough. Mix just until combined for a light, airy texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin your cake’s structure. Always use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different, and not checking the cake periodically may result in an over or undercooked dessert. Use a toothpick to test for doneness.
• Cutting too soon: Cutting the cake while it’s still hot can cause it to crumble. Let it cool slightly before slicing into squares.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the cake at room temperature if you plan on consuming it within a day.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, and warm slices for about 10 minutes to maintain moisture.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Donut Cake, along with their answers.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes, using store-bought apple cider works perfectly fine! Just ensure it’s fresh for the best flavor.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to keep the texture similar.

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

This cake is delicious served warm with a dusting of cinnamon sugar or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How long does Apple Cider Donut Cake last?

When stored properly, this cake lasts up to 3 days at room temperature or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful twist on classic donuts, perfect for any occasion. With its easy preparation and rich flavors, it’s sure to impress family and friends. Feel free to customize it with nuts or different spices according to your taste preferences!