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, cozy fall evenings, or as a delightful dessert, this cake brings together the warm flavors of cinnamon and apple cider in one simple recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and simple steps, this recipe is perfect for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of apple cider donuts without the hassle of frying.
• Versatile Treat: Great for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack with coffee or tea.
• Perfect for Sharing: Makes 12 generous slices—ideal for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Customizable: Add nuts or dried fruits for an extra twist on flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9” square baking dish: The perfect size to create a thick, moist cake that bakes evenly.
• Large sauté pan: Ideal for boiling down apple cider quickly to concentrate its flavor.
• Whisk: Ensures all ingredients are well combined for a smooth batter.

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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 the oven to 350°F. Butter (or spray with oil) a 9” square baking dish. 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. 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 the wet ingredients until blended smoothly. Then stir in the flour until just combined.

Step 5: Bake

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

Step 6: Cool and Add Toppings

Place the cake on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes. Place room temperature butter on top of the warm cake and brush it around as it melts.

Step 7: Final Touches

In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Granulated sugar
2. Ground cinnamon

Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the buttered surface of your cake before removing it from the pan to cool completely on the rack.

Step 8: Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying a slice at home, these suggestions will enhance your experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy addition that complements the spices in the cake.

A La Mode

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm, spiced cake.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over the top for an extra layer of sweetness and richness that enhances the apple flavors.

Accompanied by Fruit

• Pair with fresh fruit like sliced apples or berries for a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake.

Coffee or Tea Pairing

• Enjoy slices alongside your favorite coffee or tea. The warm beverage balances the sweet flavors, making for a cozy treat.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To achieve the best results with your Apple Cider Donut Cake, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh apple cider and high-quality eggs will make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.

• Measure Accurately: Ensure you measure your ingredients correctly to maintain the balance of flavors and textures in the cake.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding flour to keep the cake tender and avoid toughness.

• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is baked through. It should come out clean when inserted into the center.

• Let it Cool: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before cutting helps it set better and makes serving easier.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Apple Slices – Fresh, crisp apple slices add brightness and enhance the apple flavor of your cake.
2. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie can create a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
3. Yogurt Parfait – Layered yogurt with granola and fruits provides a refreshing balance alongside the rich donut cake.
4. Mixed Nuts – A bowl of mixed nuts adds crunch and saltiness, which complements the sweet elements nicely.
5. Chai Tea – The spices in chai tea echo those in the cake, making this pairing particularly harmonious.
6. Roasted Vegetables – A side of savory roasted vegetables can provide a hearty contrast that balances out the dessert’s sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Apple Cider Donut Cake even better. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Incorrect cider measurement: Using too much or too little apple cider can affect the cake’s moisture. Always reduce the cider to ¾ cup as instructed.
• Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your baking dish can lead to sticking. Use parchment paper for easy removal of the cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too long can create a dense texture. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy cake.
• Not checking for doneness: Baking time may vary, so do a toothpick test. Insert it in the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
• Neglecting cooling time: Cutting into the cake while warm can result in crumbling. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing into squares.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 15-20 seconds, checking often.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for a few minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Can I use different oils in my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Yes, any neutral oil will work well in this recipe. Options include vegetable oil or grapeseed oil.

How should I store my leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate it for longer freshness.

Can I substitute other flavorings in this Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with nutmeg or vanilla extract for added flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake captures all the flavors of its namesake while being simple and quick to prepare. It’s perfect for gatherings or as an afternoon treat with coffee. Try customizing it by adding nuts or dried fruits to make it uniquely yours!