Apple Cider Donut Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy treat that captures the essence of fall, this Apple Cider Donut Cake is just what you need. It’s like taking a bite out of your favorite apple cider donut without all the fuss! This cake is wonderfully simple to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight dessert or a delightful addition to your family gatherings. The warm flavors of cinnamon and apple cider will fill your home with an inviting aroma that makes everyone feel right at home.

I love how versatile this cake is too! It’s perfect for sharing with friends over coffee or enjoying on lazy weekend mornings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: No complicated steps here! This cake comes together quickly, making it perfect for those busy days.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the warm flavors of apple cider and cinnamon. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it in advance, and enjoy it throughout the week. It stays delicious for days!
• Delicious Flavor: Each bite bursts with the rich taste of apple cider donuts, making every slice a treat.
• No Special Equipment Needed: Just grab some basic kitchen tools, and you’re all set!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather these simple and wholesome ingredients. They work together to create that classic flavor we all crave.

• 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

Variations

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is wonderfully flexible. Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations!

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Incorporate spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.
• Make it fruity: Mix in some diced apples or pears for extra sweetness and texture.
• Glaze it up: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and water on top for an extra special touch.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9” square baking dish with butter or spray oil. Line it with parchment paper, letting it hang over the sides to make removal easier later on. This step ensures your cake bakes evenly and comes out perfectly!

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, boil the fresh apple cider until it’s reduced by half—about 5 minutes should do the trick. You want to measure it afterward to ensure you have around ¾ cup. Adding cold butter to the hot cider creates a luscious mixture that’s full of flavor.

Step 3: Whisk Together Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, olive oil, sour cream, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, and salt. This will create a smooth mixture that acts as the base of your cake.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Slowly whisk the boiled cider into your wet mixture until well combined. Then gently stir in the flour until just incorporated—be careful not to overmix! This is where all those lovely flavors meld together.

Step 5: Pour into Dish

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top if needed. This step sets you up for an even bake.

Step 6: Bake

Place your cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 22–25 minutes until it’s puffed up and golden brown on top. The aroma will be irresistible!

Step 7: Cool & Top with Butter

Let the cake cool on a rack for about 5 minutes before placing cool room temperature butter on top so it can melt beautifully across the surface.

Step 8: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Liberally sprinkle this mixture over the melted butter for that signature donut flavor!

Step 9: Let Cool Before Slicing

Carefully remove the cake from the pan using those handy parchment paper edges. Allow it to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donut Cake

Making this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake is a breeze, but a few tips can elevate your baking experience!

• Use fresh apple cider: Fresh cider offers richer flavors that enhance the cake’s overall taste. Avoid using bottled versions that may contain preservatives or added sugars.

• Don’t skip the parchment paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment paper makes removing the cake hassle-free. It ensures the cake doesn’t stick and helps maintain its perfect shape.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and accurate measurements lead to consistent results. Use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient weights if possible, especially for flour.

• Cool slightly before serving: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before slicing helps it set, making it easier to cut clean squares without crumbling.

• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon and allspice are classic choices, feel free to add nutmeg or ginger for an extra flavor kick! This not only personalizes your cake but also enhances its seasonal appeal.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Presenting your Apple Cider Donut Cake can turn a simple treat into an inviting dessert centerpiece! Here are some fun ideas on how to make it shine at your next gathering or cozy afternoon snack.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top gives the cake an elegant finishing touch.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans adds a delightful crunch and complements the cake’s soft texture.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm spiced flavors of the cake, creating a delicious contrast.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream. Its lightness balances the sweetness while adding a tropical twist.
• Fresh fruit: A side of sliced apples or pears enhances the autumnal theme and adds freshness to each bite.
• Spiced chai tea: Enjoying a slice with a warm cup of spiced chai tea creates a cozy atmosphere and accentuates the cake’s flavors perfectly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Apple Cider Donut Cake will not only taste amazing but will also look irresistible on any table! Enjoy this sweet celebration of fall flavors with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily store it for later enjoyment, making it a great option for busy days or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, you can also refrigerate it for up to a week; just be sure to wrap it well to prevent drying out.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label the bag with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply remove a slice from the fridge or freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes.
• You can warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or pop it into a toaster oven until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Apple Cider Donut Cake that might help you get the most out of this delightful recipe!

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

Absolutely! Store-bought apple cider works perfectly well. Just make sure it’s fresh and flavorful for the best results.

How do I ensure my Apple Cider Donut Cake stays moist?

To keep your Apple Cider Donut Cake moist, make sure not to overbake it. Check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time, and store leftovers properly.

Can I substitute any ingredients in the Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Yes! You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt, or use any neutral oil instead of light olive oil if you prefer.

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

The cake is done when it’s puffed up, golden brown on top, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Apple Cider Donut Cake as much as I do! It’s such a comforting treat that captures all those warm autumn flavors in a simple form. Whether you’re enjoying it with friends over coffee or savoring a slice all by yourself, this cake is bound to bring smiles. Remember, it’s all about creating joyful moments around good food. Happy baking!