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 captures all the flavor of our favorite seasonal treat, making it a super easy snack cake perfect for gatherings, cozy nights in, or as an afternoon delight. Its moist texture and delightful cinnamon-sugar topping make it a standout dessert that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With minimal steps and simple ingredients, this cake comes together quickly, giving you more time to enjoy it.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich taste of apple cider combined with warm spices creates a comforting flavor that’s perfect for fall.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this cake fits any occasion.
• Perfect for Sharing: Cut into generous slices, it’s ideal for serving at gatherings or family events.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You can whip this up with basic kitchen tools you probably already own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools for a smooth baking experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• 9” square baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Why These Tools Matter

• 9” square baking dish: This specific size ensures even cooking and perfect portions.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for organized mixing of wet and dry ingredients separately.
• Whisk: A good whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, making the cake light and fluffy.
• Cooling rack: Ensures your cake cools evenly and prevents sogginess on the bottom.

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 your 9” square baking dish with butter or spray it with oil. Line it with parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides. This will create a sling for easy removal later.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, bring the fresh apple cider to a boil over medium heat. Allow it to reduce by half; this should take about 5 minutes. Measure out ¾ cup after reducing. Add the diced butter to the hot cider and whisk until melted and combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the following ingredients until smooth:
1. Eggs
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar
4. Light olive oil
5. Sour cream
6. Baking powder
7. Baking soda
8. Ground cinnamon
9. Allspice
10. Coarse kosher salt

Step 4: Combine Cider with Wet Mixture

Slowly whisk in the boiled apple cider mixture into your wet ingredients until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Add Flour

Stir in the all-purpose flour gently until just combined; avoid over-mixing as this can result in a dense cake.

Step 6: Pour Batter into Dish

Carefully pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly using a spatula.

Step 7: Bake

Place in your preheated oven and bake for about 22–25 minutes or until the cake is puffed up, golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool Slightly

Once baked, remove from oven and place on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes.

Step 9: Butter Topping

While still warm, place one tablespoon of butter on top of the cake so it melts evenly across the surface.

Step 10: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar with one teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the melted butter on top of the cake.

Step 11: Remove from Pan

Using the parchment sling, carefully lift the cake out of the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 12: Slice and Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting it into squares for serving.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake! It’s sure to be a hit at any occasion!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving Apple Cider Donut Cake is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. You can enjoy this delightful cake in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee – Pairing with a freshly brewed cup of coffee brings out the cake’s spices.
• Tea – A soothing herbal tea complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
• Apple Cider – Warm apple cider elevates the fall flavors and keeps things cozy.

A La Mode

• Vanilla Ice Cream – The creaminess of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cake.
• Caramel Sauce – Drizzling caramel sauce adds an extra layer of decadence.
• Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy whipped cream makes for a delightful topping.

For Breakfast or Brunch

• Fresh Fruit – Sliced apples or berries add a fresh, vibrant touch to your plate.
• Yogurt Parfait – Layering cake pieces with yogurt and fruit creates a delicious parfait.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To achieve the perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake, follow these simple tips that will enhance your baking process.

• Boldly reduce the cider – Ensure you boil the apple cider down to concentrate its flavor before adding it to the batter.
• Evenly mix wet ingredients – Whisk the wet ingredients thoroughly for an even texture in your cake.
• Use room temperature ingredients – Allow butter, eggs, and sour cream to reach room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.
• Avoid overmixing – Gently stir in the flour until just combined to prevent a dense texture.
• Monitor baking time closely – Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean when ready.
• Cool properly before serving – Letting the cake cool slightly helps it set, making it easier to cut into perfect squares.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some options you might consider.

1. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses adds savory notes that balance the sweetness of the cake.
2. Roasted Nuts – Almonds or walnuts provide a crunchy contrast and nutty flavor.
3. Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup makes an excellent companion on chilly days.
4. Cinnamon Applesauce – Homemade applesauce spiced with cinnamon enhances the apple flavors in the cake.
5. Salad with Fall Greens – A salad featuring arugula, cranberries, and goat cheese offers freshness alongside richness.
6. Oven-Baked Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes bring another layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with this dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cider Donut Cake, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not reducing the apple cider properly: Ensure you boil the cider until it reduces by half for the best flavor. This step is crucial for enhancing the cake’s taste.
• Using warm ingredients: Always use cold butter and room temperature eggs. Warm ingredients can affect the texture of your cake, making it dense instead of fluffy.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment paper makes it easier to remove the cake after baking. Don’t skip this step for a hassle-free release.
• Overmixing the batter: Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so mix just until combined.
• Not checking doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature. Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check if your cake is fully baked; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container.
• item It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• item Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• item You can freeze slices of the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in an airtight container.
• item The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• item Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat slices for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place slices on a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Apple Cider Donut Cake more flavorful?

Adding spices like nutmeg or ginger can enhance the flavor profile of your Apple Cider Donut Cake. Experiment with different combinations!

Can I substitute other oils in my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Yes! You can use any neutral oil such as sunflower or avocado oil if you prefer not to use light olive oil.

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

This cake pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. You can also top it with whipped cream or serve alongside vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

Is there a gluten-free version of Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I add nuts or fruits to my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

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

Conclusion

Apple Cider Donut Cake is an irresistible treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Its simplicity makes it perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack or dessert. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or toppings, and enjoy this deliciously wholesome cake!

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