Apple Cider Donut Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, you’ve found it! This Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delicious twist on the classic apple cider donut, made into a simple cake. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something sweet but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s great for family gatherings or just to enjoy with a cup of coffee on a lazy afternoon. Trust me, once you try this cake, it will become a cherished favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Apple Cider Donut Cake comes together in no time, making it perfect for beginner bakers.
• Delicious Flavors: The warm spices and apple cider create an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple dessert at home, this cake fits right in.
• Moist and Tender: The addition of sour cream ensures that each bite is soft and delightful.
• Make-Ahead Option: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week—if it lasts that long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 the Topping:

• 1 tablespoon butter, at cool room temperature
• ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Variations

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is quite flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Mix in Fruits: Shredded carrots or grated zucchini can add moisture and nutrition—just be sure to adjust baking time slightly!
• Try Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a different spice profile.
• Glaze It: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice for an extra sweet touch.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly right from the start. While that’s heating up, butter or spray a 9” square baking dish and line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, bring the fresh apple cider to a boil and let it simmer until reduced by half—about 5 minutes. This step intensifies the flavor of the cider, giving your cake that rich taste we all love.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, olive oil, sour cream, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, and salt until smooth. This mixture is where all those delicious flavors start to come together!

Step 4: Add Boiled Cider

Slowly whisk the hot boiled cider into your wet mixture. Be careful not to splash! Combining them while warm helps meld those flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Stir in Flour

Now it’s time to fold in the flour. Gently stir until just combined; we want our cake tender and light.

Step 6: Bake!

Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for about 22-25 minutes or until the cake is puffed up and golden brown. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be nothing short of heavenly!

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked, place the cake on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes before adding butter on top. Watch as it melts—pure magic!

Step 8: Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this liberally over the melted butter on top of your warm cake for that classic donut experience.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Carefully remove the cake from the pan using the parchment sling and let it cool completely before slicing into squares. Enjoy this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake with friends or keep it all to yourself—no judgment here!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donut Cake

Making this delicious cake can be a breeze with these handy tips! Follow them to ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh cider enhances the flavor profile of the cake, giving it that authentic apple taste that pairs beautifully with the spices.

• Don’t skip reducing the cider: Boiling down the cider concentrates its flavors and sweetness, resulting in a richer cake. This step is crucial for achieving that classic apple cider donut essence.

• Check your oven temperature: Ovens can vary, so it’s a good idea to use an oven thermometer. Baking at the right temperature ensures your cake rises properly and cooks evenly.

• Let it cool before cutting: Allowing the cake to cool slightly makes it easier to cut into neat squares, preventing it from crumbling and giving you those perfect slices for serving.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your palate. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of ginger can elevate the flavor even more!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

When it comes to serving this delightful cake, there are plenty of creative ways to present it and enhance its flavors. Whether for a cozy gathering or a festive occasion, here’s how you can make your Apple Cider Donut Cake shine!

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a sweet touch and visually elevates your cake’s presentation.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some chopped walnuts or pecans on top introduces a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture of the cake.

Side Dishes

• Warm spiced apples: Sauté sliced apples in a pan with cinnamon and a touch of maple syrup for a warm side that enhances the autumnal flavors of the cake.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve slices alongside creamy vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast in textures and temperatures—perfect for dessert lovers!
• Hot coffee or tea: Pairing this cake with a cup of hot coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy atmosphere, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad gives a refreshing balance to the rich sweetness of the cake, adding brightness to your dessert table.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Apple Cider Donut Cake is sure to impress everyone who tries it! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is an excellent option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to keep it fresh longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label it with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, you can warm up the entire cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Apple Cider Donut Cake!

Can I use store-bought apple cider for the Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s a good quality cider for the best flavor.

How can I make the Apple Cider Donut Cake gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum, or add a bit separately if needed for structure.

What can I substitute for sour cream in this Apple Cider Donut Cake?

You can use Greek yogurt as a great substitute for sour cream. It provides similar moisture and tanginess!

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

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

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Cider Donut Cake! It’s such a comforting treat that captures the essence of fall with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet afternoon or sharing it with friends, this cake is sure to bring smiles. Happy baking, and don’t forget to savor each delicious piece!