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 family gatherings or cozy evenings at home, this cake is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. With its warm spices and sweet apple cider flavor, it’s bound to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No frying required! This cake comes together quickly without the hassle of shaping donuts.
• Delicious Flavor: Packed with the rich taste of apple cider and warm spices, each bite is like enjoying a fresh donut.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect as an after-school snack, dessert for dinner parties, or a sweet treat with your morning coffee.
• Quick Baking Time: Ready in just over half an hour, you can have this delightful cake on your table in no time.
• Perfect for Sharing: Makes 12 slices, ideal for sharing with family and friends during any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having everything ready will make the process a breeze.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9” square baking dish: The perfect size for even baking and easy slicing of your Apple Cider Donut Cake.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier—just lift out the cake!
• Whisk: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly, ensuring a fluffy texture in your cake.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the cake for even cooling and helps maintain its texture.

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) cup 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 the 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 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 butter to the hot cider and whisk to combine.

Step 3: Prepare 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 into the wet mixture until well blended.

Step 5: Add Flour

Stir in the flour until just combined—be careful not to overmix!

Step 6: Pour Batter into Dish

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven until puffed, golden brown, and baked through in the middle, about 22–25 minutes.

Step 8: Cool Slightly

Place the cake on a cooling rack for about five minutes.

Step 9: Add Butter Topping

Place butter on top of the warm cake and brush it around as it melts evenly across.

Step 10: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon; sprinkle this mixture liberally over the buttered surface.

Step 11: Remove from Pan

Carefully lift out the cake from the pan using parchment paper and let it cool on the rack completely.

Step 12: Slice and Serve

Allow it to cool slightly before cutting into squares for serving. Enjoy your delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving your Apple Cider Donut Cake can elevate this delightful dessert to new heights. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it!

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that complements the cinnamon flavor.
• Caramel Ice Cream: Adds a rich, buttery sweetness that pairs beautifully.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Homemade Caramel: Make your own for a personal touch or use store-bought for convenience.
• Warm Caramel Sauce: Drizzle it over each slice for an extra indulgent treat.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lightly Sweetened Whipped Cream: A fluffy addition that balances the cake’s richness.
• Flavored Whipped Cream: Try adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg for added spice.

Paired with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Apples: Fresh apple slices provide a crisp, refreshing contrast.
• Berries: Strawberries or blueberries add color and tartness to each bite.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

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

• Use Fresh Apple Cider: The quality of your cider will significantly impact the flavor; opt for fresh, unfiltered options if possible.
• Measure Accurately: Precise measurements lead to consistent results. Use kitchen scales for best accuracy.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
• Cool Completely Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool thoroughly ensures better slicing and enhances flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake pairs well with various side dishes that enhance its flavors. Try these delicious options!

1. Spiced Chai Tea: A warm beverage with spices that complement the cake’s flavors perfectly.
2. Pumpkin Soup: The creamy texture and savory notes provide a nice contrast to the sweet cake.
3. Cheese Platter: Mixed cheeses like brie or cheddar offer a savory balance against the sweetness of the cake.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your dessert table.
5. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips: Crunchy and sweet, these make a fun accompaniment for dipping into whipped cream.
6. Carrot Sticks with Hummus: A healthy option that adds crunch and freshness alongside your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Apple Cider Donut Cake can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using too much apple cider: If you add more than the recommended amount, your cake may turn out too wet. Stick to 1-½ cups for the perfect balance.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements are crucial. Use measuring cups and spoons for all ingredients to ensure consistency.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before cutting helps it set properly. Cutting too soon can result in a crumbly texture.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Combine ingredients until just mixed to keep the texture light and fluffy.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Every oven is different, so it’s essential to check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. This prevents overbaking or underbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

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

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the cake on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Apple Cider Donut Cake special?

This cake captures all the flavors of traditional apple cider donuts but simplifies them into an easy-to-make snack cake that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Can I customize my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate chips to elevate the flavor. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cloves for extra warmth!

How do I know when my Apple Cider Donut Cake is done baking?

The cake should be puffed up, golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

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

Yes! Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Adjust moisture levels if necessary.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its easy preparation and delightful flavor profile, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins or spices, making it truly your own. Don’t miss out on trying this delightful treat!