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 desserts, or a cozy night in, this cake brings warmth and joy to any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: No frying or intricate donut-making techniques required.
• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the rich, cinnamon-spiced apple cider taste without the hassle.
• Versatile Serving Options: Great for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.
• Perfect for Fall: Capture the essence of autumn with every bite.
• Crowd-Pleasing: Makes 12 slices—ideal for sharing with friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Having these on hand will ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9” square baking dish
• Large sauté pan
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cooling rack
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A sturdy dish ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect texture.
• Whisk: Essential for thoroughly combining wet ingredients and ensuring a smooth batter.
• Cooling Rack: Allows air circulation around the cake, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

Here’s what you will need to prepare your Apple Cider Donut 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
• 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 a 9” square baking dish with butter or spray it with oil. 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, 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

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Slowly whisk the boiled cider mixture into the wet ingredients until well combined.

Step 5: Add Flour

Stir in the flour until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

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

Step 7: Cool & Prepare Topping

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

Step 8: Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the melted butter on top of the cake.

Step 9: Remove from Pan & Cool

Carefully remove the cake from the pan using the parchment sling and let it cool completely on the rack before slicing into squares.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

This delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile treat for any occasion. Whether you prefer it warm, with a scoop of ice cream, or paired with your morning coffee, there is no wrong way to serve this cake.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the cake’s richness perfectly.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• For an indulgent twist, drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice. The sweetness pairs beautifully with the cinnamon flavors.

Accompanied by Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve slices warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast in temperature and texture.

With a Side of Fresh Fruit

• Slices of apple or pear add freshness and balance the sweetness of the cake, making for a well-rounded dessert.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoying this cake with a hot cup of coffee or tea enhances its flavors and makes for a cozy snack or dessert option.

As Breakfast Treats

• Enjoy small squares as breakfast bites. They are perfect for busy mornings when you crave something sweet yet satisfying.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To achieve the ideal flavor and texture in your Apple Cider Donut Cake, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Apple Cider: Fresh cider enhances the flavor significantly compared to bottled varieties.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures for consistent results.
• Let It Cool Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool slightly helps improve its texture and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices like nutmeg or cloves for unique flavor variations.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Donut Cake can enhance your dining experience. Here are some suggestions:

1. Vanilla Yogurt: A creamy addition that brings tanginess and complementary flavors.
2. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon add crunch and warmth, balancing the cake’s sweetness.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness and color on your dessert plate.
4. Cheese Platter: Pairing with mild cheeses like brie adds savory notes that contrast nicely with the sweet cake.
5. Chai Tea Latte: The spiced warmth of chai complements the flavors in this cake perfectly.
6. Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of maple syrup brings out the apple cider flavor while adding extra sweetness.
7. Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate lovers, a rich ganache can elevate your dessert experience.
8. Herbal Tea: Light herbal teas provide a refreshing counterpart to the dense flavors of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cider Donut Cake, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Incorrect Cider Measurement: Using too much or too little cider can alter the cake’s moisture level. Always measure your cider after reducing it to ensure accuracy.

• Skipping Butter Softening: If you forget to soften the butter before use, it won’t mix well into the batter. Allow your butter to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing the batter too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined; a few lumps are okay!

• Not Cooling Properly: Cutting into the cake while it’s still hot can cause it to crumble. Let the cake cool on a rack for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

• Neglecting Parchment Paper: Skipping parchment paper could lead to sticking. Always line your baking dish with parchment for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and heat slices for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20 seconds, checking if additional time is needed.
• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over low heat for several minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Donut Cake that might help you out:

Can I make this Apple Cider Donut Cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works well in baking recipes.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make Apple Cider Donut Cake dairy-free, use plant-based butter and replace sour cream with non-dairy yogurt or applesauce.

How can I customize my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

You can add nuts, dried fruits, or different spices like nutmeg for added flavor. Experiment with toppings such as powdered sugar or glaze.

What is 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 or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cider Donut Cake combines all the delightful flavors of fall into a convenient snackable dessert. Its simplicity makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s breakfast or an afternoon treat. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins, and enjoy every bite!