Apple Cider Donut Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall, this Apple Cider Donut Cake is just what you need! Imagine a warm, cozy cake that brings all the flavors of those beloved apple cider donuts into a simple slice. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something sweet without the fuss or for family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds.

This recipe is special not only because it’s easy to make, but also because it fills your home with a wonderful aroma that reminds us of crisp autumn days. Whether you’re enjoying it with a cup of coffee in the morning or serving it as dessert after dinner, this Apple Cider Donut Cake is sure to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 34 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, spiced flavor that mimics their favorite donuts.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance and store it for a delicious treat anytime!
• Deliciously Moist: The blend of apple cider and butter ensures each bite is rich and flavorful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that this Apple Cider Donut Cake uses simple, wholesome ingredients you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather them together!

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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust ingredients or add new flavors to make it your own.

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch.
• Incorporate fruit: Mix in diced apples or pears for extra moisture and flavor.
• Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a twist.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch square baking dish with butter or spray it with oil. Then line it with parchment paper that hangs over the sides. This helps when removing the cake later!

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, bring the apple cider to a boil until it’s reduced by half—about 5 minutes should do! This step intensifies the flavor. After measuring out ¾ cup of cider, whisk in the cold butter until it melts smoothly.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, olive oil, sour cream, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, and salt. This mixture creates a rich base for your cake.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Slowly whisk the hot cider mixture into the wet ingredients. Mixing them together while warm helps ensure everything blends nicely without clumps.

Step 5: Add Flour

Gently stir in the flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this keeps your cake light and fluffy!

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden and puffed up nicely.

Step 7: Cool & Top It Off

After removing from the oven, let your cake cool on a rack for about 5 minutes. While it’s still warm, place room-temperature butter on top so it melts beautifully across the surface.

Step 8: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar

Mix together granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over your melted butter on top of the cake for that classic donut flavor.

Step 9: Slice & Enjoy!

Once cooled slightly, remove your cake from the pan using those handy parchment paper handles. Cut into squares and serve! Enjoy every bite of this wonderful Apple Cider Donut Cake!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donut Cake

Making this delightful cake is straightforward, but a few tips can help ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh apple cider enhances the flavor of the cake, giving it that authentic fall taste that makes your kitchen smell amazing.
• Don’t skip the reduction step: Reducing the apple cider concentrates its flavor and sweetness, making your cake even more delicious than if you used it straight from the bottle.
• Check for doneness: Since ovens vary, make sure to check your cake a couple of minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking and ensure a moist texture.
• Let it cool properly: Allowing the cake to cool before slicing helps maintain its structure and makes it easier to cut into neat squares.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon for a warm, aromatic twist that compliments the apple flavor beautifully.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday party. Here are some ideas on how to present and enjoy this scrumptious treat.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds elegance and a touch of sweetness that enhances presentation.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the top adds richness and an indulgent flair that pairs wonderfully with apple flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices in the cake and adds a delightful contrast in temperature.
• Whipped coconut cream: Light and fluffy coconut cream provides a dairy-free option that adds richness without overpowering the cake’s flavors.
• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like pears, apples, and berries can brighten up the plate and provide a refreshing balance to the cake’s sweetness.
• Coffee or chai latte: Serving this cake alongside a warm beverage like coffee or chai latte elevates the experience, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for enjoying this fall-inspired dessert.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, you’re ready to impress your friends and family with your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it, freeze it, and reheat those delicious slices.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place the cake in the refrigerator where it will last up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the bags with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove the desired slice from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
• For a warm treat, pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it slightly warmed in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful cake!

Can I make Apple Cider Donut Cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour. Just ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

How long does Apple Cider Donut Cake last?

When stored properly, this cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. If you freeze slices, they can last up to 3 months!

What makes this Apple Cider Donut Cake so special?

This cake captures all the comforting flavors of traditional apple cider donuts while being incredibly easy to make. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family during fall gatherings!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chopped walnuts or diced apples into the batter before baking for added flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Cider Donut Cake as much as I do! It’s such a cozy treat that brings back fond memories of autumn celebrations. Whether you’re enjoying it with family or sharing it with friends, this recipe is sure to delight everyone who tries it. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!