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 nights in, or just because you deserve something sweet!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Apple Cider Donut Cake comes together quickly with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the rich taste of apple cider and warm spices that evoke fall in every bite.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this cake fits any occasion beautifully.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You can whip up this cake with standard kitchen tools without needing fancy gadgets.
• Perfectly Moist: The combination of fresh apple cider and sour cream ensures a moist and tender crumb.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch square baking dish: Ideal for even cooking and allows for easy removal when lined with parchment paper.
• Large sauté pan: Perfect for reducing the apple cider quickly while maximizing flavor concentration.
• Medium mixing bowl: Essential for combining wet ingredients before adding dry ones to ensure a smooth batter.

Ingredients

To create this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake, you’ll need the following 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 your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9-inch square baking dish by buttering it or spraying 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, bring the fresh apple cider to a boil until reduced by half. This should take about 5 minutes. Measure to ensure you have ¾ cup left. Remove from heat and whisk in the diced butter until melted.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, olive oil, sour cream, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, allspice, and salt. Whisk thoroughly until well blended.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Slowly add the reduced apple cider mixture into the wet ingredients. Whisk continuously to combine smoothly.

Step 5: Add Flour

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

Step 6: Pour Batter into Baking Dish

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly for consistent baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in your preheated oven until puffed and golden brown—about 22 to 25 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 8: Cool Slightly

Once baked, place the cake on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes before proceeding.

Step 9: Add Butter Topping

Place cool room temperature butter on top of the warm cake. Brush it around as it melts across the surface.

Step 10: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar

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 your cake.

Step 11: Remove from Pan

Carefully remove the cake from the pan using the parchment paper sling. Allow it to cool completely on a rack.

Step 12: Slice and Serve

Let your Apple Cider Donut Cake cool slightly before cutting it into squares. Enjoy this delicious treat warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving Apple Cider Donut Cake can be a delightful experience for anyone who loves the warm, comforting flavors of fall. This cake’s moist texture and sweet cinnamon topping make it a versatile dessert that pairs well with various accompaniments.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on top to enhance the cake’s flavors and provide a creamy contrast.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a deliciously decadent treat that balances warmth and chill.

With Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle caramel sauce over the slices for an added layer of sweetness that complements the apple cider flavor beautifully.

With Spiced Apple Compote

• Top the cake with spiced apple compote made from sautéed apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg to echo its ingredients and create a cozy feel.

With Hot Tea or Coffee

• Pairing this cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee enhances its comforting appeal, making it perfect for afternoon tea or brunch gatherings.

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: Fresh cider adds rich flavor; avoid processed versions for the best taste.
• Measure ingredients accurately: Precision in measuring flour and sugars is key to achieving the right texture.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to dense results.
• Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick inserted into the center—if it comes out clean, your cake is done!
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the cake to cool slightly helps it set properly and makes slicing easier without crumbling.
• Store properly: Keep leftover cake 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 elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Cinnamon-Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes
   These sweet potatoes add a savory-sweet complement that matches well with the flavors of the cake.
2. Creamy Mashed Potatoes
   The smooth texture of mashed potatoes provides a comforting contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
3. Mixed Green Salad
   A light salad dressed with vinaigrette offers freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
4. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese can provide a savory note that pairs wonderfully with dessert.
5. Baked Apples
   Baked apples seasoned with cinnamon make an excellent combination, enhancing the apple flavor profile in the cake.
6. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of pumpkin soup adds warmth and depth while introducing seasonal flavors alongside your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Apple Cider Donut Cake can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Using too much flour: Measuring flour incorrectly can lead to a dense cake. Always spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife for accuracy.
• Not reducing the cider enough: The apple cider needs to be boiled down to intensify the flavor. Make sure you reduce it by half as directed; otherwise, your cake may lack that rich apple flavor.
• Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before cutting is essential for better texture. If you cut it too soon, it might crumble or fall apart.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough cake. Mix just until combined to keep your Apple Cider Donut Cake light and fluffy.
• Neglecting to grease the pan properly: Ensure your baking dish is well-greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking. This step is crucial for easy removal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it at room temperature for the best texture, but refrigeration is fine if needed.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm each slice for about 2 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Apple Cider Donut Cake special?

This cake captures the essence of classic apple cider donuts in a simple baking format, making it easier to enjoy during the fall season.

Can I substitute other oils in this recipe?

Yes! You can use any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil instead of olive oil without affecting the taste.

How do I add more flavor to my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Consider adding chopped nuts or raisins, or even drizzling a simple glaze on top after baking for extra sweetness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup in recipes.

What should I serve with my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or hot apple cider, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or brunches.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Its warm flavors make it a perfect treat for any occasion, whether it’s breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or toppings to make it uniquely yours!