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, family dinners, or a cozy night in, this cake brings the essence of fall right to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No frying or rolling necessary! This simple batter comes together quickly and bakes beautifully.
• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of apple cider combined with warm spices that evoke seasonal nostalgia.
• Versatile Treat: Great for dessert, breakfast, or a snack. Pair it with coffee or tea for a delightful experience.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at parties or family gatherings; everyone will love this moist and flavorful cake.
• Quick Baking Time: With only 22 minutes in the oven, you won’t have to wait long to enjoy this delicious treat!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, gathering the right tools will ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A square baking dish ensures even cooking and makes it easy to slice into perfect squares.
• Whisk: Helps to blend ingredients smoothly without lumps, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.
• Cooling Rack: Allows for proper cooling, preventing sogginess and maintaining texture.

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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. Prepare a 9-inch square baking dish by buttering it or spraying with oil. Line it with parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides for easy removal.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, boil the fresh apple cider until reduced by half, which takes about 5 minutes. Measure out ¾ cup of reduced cider. Add the diced butter into the hot cider and whisk until fully melted and 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

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly whisk the boiled cider mixture into your wet ingredients until everything is well blended.

Step 5: Add Flour

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

Step 6: Pour Batter into Baking Dish

Transfer the batter into your prepared baking dish evenly.

Step 7: Bake

Place in your preheated oven and bake until puffed, golden brown, and baked through in about 22–25 minutes.

Step 8: Cool Slightly Before Serving

Allow the cake to cool on a rack for about 5 minutes before applying topping.

Step 9: Top with Butter and Cinnamon Sugar

Brush cool room temperature butter over the top while it’s warm. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon; sprinkle generously on top of the melted butter.

Step 10: Remove from Pan and Cool Completely

Carefully lift out using parchment paper slings and let cool on rack completely before slicing into squares.

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is sure to delight everyone who tries it! Enjoy your baking!

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 cozy gathering or enjoying it as a sweet snack, here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Pair with Coffee

• A warm cup of coffee complements the spices in the cake perfectly.
• Choose a medium roast for balance or a flavored coffee like hazelnut for extra richness.

Serve with Ice Cream

• Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the cake’s texture.
• For an indulgent treat, drizzle some caramel sauce over the ice cream.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Sliced apples or pears provide a refreshing crunch that pairs well with the cake’s sweetness.
• Lightly sprinkle with cinnamon for an extra flavor boost.

Top with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream makes each slice feel like a special dessert.
• Consider adding a touch of maple syrup to the whipped cream for added sweetness.

Create Mini Dessert Trifles

• Layer pieces of the cake with whipped cream and fruit in small glasses for an elegant presentation.
• This is perfect for parties or special occasions.

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, making your cake more delicious.
• Don’t skip reducing the cider: Reducing concentrates the apple flavor, giving your cake that signature taste.
• Check oven temperature: An accurate oven temperature ensures even baking; use an oven thermometer if you suspect yours is off.
• Cool before cutting: Allowing the cake to cool slightly helps maintain its structure when slicing.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger for an additional layer of flavor if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake can be enjoyed alongside various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Cheese Platter – A selection of sharp cheddar and creamy brie pairs nicely with the sweetness of the cake.
2. Honey Roasted Nuts – Sweet and salty nuts add crunch and texture, balancing out the soft cake.
3. Pumpkin Soup – The spices in pumpkin soup harmonize well with apple cider flavors, creating a comforting combination.
4. Caramelized Apples – Warm caramelized apples enhance the apple essence while adding richness to your meal.
5. Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruits; it’s light yet satisfying next to a rich dessert like this cake.
6. Herbed Salad – A fresh salad with mixed greens, nuts, and vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to sweet dishes.
7. Chai Tea – This spiced tea provides warmth and complements the flavors of cinnamon in your cake.
8. Chocolate Fondue – Dip pieces of cake into melted chocolate for an indulgent treat that’s fun to share!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making your Apple Cider Donut Cake can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch for.

• Bold measurement errors: Always double-check your ingredient measurements. Using too much or too little can alter the texture and flavor of the cake.
• Bold neglecting the cider reduction: Reducing the apple cider is crucial for flavor concentration. Skipping this step will result in a less flavorful cake.
• Bold overmixing the batter: Mixing too vigorously can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.
• Bold skipping the cooling time: Allow the cake to cool properly before cutting. This helps maintain its structure and makes serving easier.
• Bold incorrect oven temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F. An improperly heated oven can affect baking time and cake rise.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Yes, feel free to use store-bought apple cider if you’re short on time or fresh cider isn’t available.

How do I make my Apple Cider Donut Cake gluten-free?

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

How should I serve Apple Cider Donut Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own but pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

What’s the best way to store leftovers of Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days; refrigerate for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only easy to make but also captures the essence of fall flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different spices or toppings, making it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delicious treat with family and friends!