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 evenings, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake captures the essence of fall in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delicious cake.
• Flavorful Delight: The rich apple cider combined with spices delivers a warm, comforting flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, a coffee break, or a holiday treat, this cake fits right in.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain or dressed up with toppings like whipped cream or ice cream for extra indulgence.
• Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the apple cider and butter, this cake remains moist and fluffy throughout.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your baking experience smoother. Here are the essentials you’ll need to prepare this Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even baking and easy removal of the cake once it’s done.
• Whisk: Helps to combine ingredients smoothly, preventing lumps in your batter.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the cake, ensuring it cools evenly without becoming soggy.

Ingredients

Here are all the ingredients you’ll need for this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake:

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 Topping

• 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” square baking dish by buttering it or spraying it with oil. Line it with parchment paper that hangs over the sides for easy removal.

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 you have 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 your wet ingredients until well blended.

Step 5: Incorporate Flour

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

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven until golden brown and baked through in the center, approximately 22–25 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Finish

Once baked, place the cake on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes. Brush cool room temperature butter on top as it melts.

Step 8: Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the melted butter on top of your cake.

Step 9: Remove from Pan

Carefully remove the cake from the pan using parchment paper overhangs and let it cool completely on a rack before cutting into squares.

Enjoy your homemade Apple Cider Donut Cake as a delightful treat any time!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or having a quiet evening at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the cake’s rich flavors.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream to add a creamy, indulgent touch.

Drizzle of Caramel Sauce

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cake for an extra burst of sweetness that complements the apple cider flavor.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Pair with sliced apples or pears to add freshness and balance the sweetness of the cake.

Cup of Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy with your favorite hot beverage, which enhances the cozy flavors of the cake and makes for a perfect afternoon snack.

As Breakfast Treat

• Slice and serve it as a delightful breakfast option, perhaps alongside yogurt or cottage cheese for added protein.

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 Ingredients – Fresh apple cider and eggs improve flavor and texture significantly.
• Don’t Overmix – Mix just until combined; overmixing can result in a dense texture.
• Cool Before Serving – Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting to maintain its structure.
• Adjust Baking Time – Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of baking; ovens may vary, and it can bake faster than expected.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add nutmeg or ginger for an extra depth of flavor that complements the cinnamon.
• Store Properly – Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for best taste and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Donut Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Greek Yogurt Parfait – Layer Greek yogurt with granola and fruits for a healthy, creamy contrast.
2. Spiced Nuts Mix – Offer a bowl of spiced nuts for a crunchy snack that balances sweetness.
3. Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits can provide freshness and brighten up the dessert table.
4. Cheese Platter – Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda; their creaminess pairs well with sweet flavors.
5. Chai Latte – Serve this warming drink alongside for a comforting beverage option that complements the spices in the cake.
6. Savory Scones – Offer cheese or herb scones as a savory counterpoint to the sweet donut cake.
7. Apple Chutney – This tangy condiment enhances the apple flavor in your cake while adding moisture.
8. Cinnamon Sugar Tortilla Chips – Crunchy chips dusted with cinnamon sugar make for a fun dipping option that matches well with your dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using too much flour: Adding more flour than needed can lead to a dense cake. Measure carefully and use the spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
• Not reducing the cider enough: If the apple cider isn’t boiled down properly, the cake may lack flavor. Ensure it reduces to ¾ cup as specified.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the cake too soon can result in a crumbly texture. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing for best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create a tough cake. Stir just until ingredients are combined for a tender texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Each oven varies, and temperature discrepancies can affect baking time. Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes, adjusting time if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between slices to avoid sticking.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat slices for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat each slice on medium power for 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid, and warm each slice for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Curious about making this Apple Cider Donut Cake? Here are some common questions answered!

Can I substitute the oil?

Yes! You can use melted coconut oil or another neutral oil if desired.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

How should I serve Apple Cider Donut Cake?

This cake is delicious served warm with a drizzle of icing or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only easy to make but also packed with rich flavors reminiscent of your favorite seasonal treats. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts or using different spices. This versatile cake is perfect for any occasion—give it a try today!