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 cozy gatherings or a delightful afternoon treat, this cake stands out with its rich apple cider flavor and soft, moist texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This Apple Cider Donut Cake requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it perfect for bakers of any skill level.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apple cider and warm spices delivers a comforting taste that embodies the essence of fall.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat, making it suitable for various occasions.
- Great for Sharing: With 12 generous slices, this cake is perfect for gatherings or family celebrations.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather these essential tools for a smooth experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9” square baking dish
- Large sauté pan
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cooling rack
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- 9” square baking dish: The right size ensures even baking and easy serving.
- Large sauté pan: Reduces the apple cider quickly while allowing for better control over heat.
- Whisk: Helps blend wet ingredients smoothly for a uniform batter.
Ingredients
Ingredients for the Apple Cider Donut 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
– 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 three-fourths of a cup. Add the diced butter to the hot cider and whisk to combine.
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. Cinnamon,
9. Allspice,
10. Salt.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Slowly whisk the boiled cider into the wet mixture until well combined.
Step 5: Add Flour
Stir in the flour gently until just combined without over-mixing.
Step 6: Pour Batter into Dish
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Step 7: Bake
Bake in the pre-heated oven until puffed, golden, and baked through in the middle, about 22–25 minutes.
Step 8: Cool Slightly
Place the cake on a cooling rack for about five minutes before proceeding to step nine.
Step 9: Brush with Butter
Place one tablespoon of butter on top of the warm cake and brush it around as it melts evenly over the surface.
Step 10: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix together:
1. Granulated sugar,
2. Ground cinnamon.
Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the buttered surface of your cake.
Step 11: Remove from Pan
Gently remove the cake from the pan using the parchment sling and let it cool completely on the rack.
Step 12: Cut into Squares
Allow cooling slightly before cutting into squares for serving.
Enjoy your deliciously spiced Apple Cider Donut Cake!
How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake
This delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake is perfect for any occasion and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive brunch, these serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience.
Classic Serving
- Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar for a simple yet delightful treat.
A La Mode
- Top slices with vanilla ice cream for a rich and creamy contrast to the spiced cake.
Drizzled with Caramel
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch that complements the apple flavors.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair the cake with slices of fresh apples or pears to enhance its fruity notes and add freshness.
Coffee Companion
- Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a comforting afternoon snack.
For Special Occasions
- Decorate with whipped cream and cinnamon for a festive look when serving at parties or 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 Cider: Fresh apple cider enhances the flavor significantly compared to store-bought options, providing that authentic taste.
Measure Accurately: Use precise measurements for the ingredients, especially the flour, to avoid a dense cake.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined after adding flour to maintain a light and fluffy texture in your cake.
Check Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center to check if the cake is done; it should come out clean without wet batter.
Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan briefly before transferring it to a cooling rack. This helps retain moisture and flavor.
Store Correctly: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Donut Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:
Chai Tea Latte: The warm spices in chai complement the flavors of apple cider beautifully, making it an ideal pairing.
Vanilla Yogurt: A dollop of vanilla yogurt adds creaminess and balances the sweetness of the cake.
Maple Syrup Glazed Bacon: For those who enjoy savory elements, this sweet and salty combo pairs well with the cake’s flavors (use turkey bacon as an alternative).
Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: Sautéed apples with cinnamon make for a warm topping that enhances the apple flavor in the cake.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart cranberry sauce provides a nice contrast to the sweetness of the donut cake while adding color on your plate.
Nutty Granola: Serve granola on top or beside the cake for added crunch and texture; it also makes for an excellent breakfast option!
Cream Cheese Frosting Dip: Offer a side dip made from cream cheese frosting for those looking to indulge even more!
Fresh Salad: A light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the cake without overpowering it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Apple Cider Donut Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Bold measuring: Ensure you measure the apple cider accurately after reducing it. Using too much or too little can change the cake’s moisture and flavor.
- Bold butter temperature: Use cold butter when mixing into the cider; this helps create a tender crumb. If it’s too warm, it won’t blend properly with the batter.
- Bold overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the flour. This can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and fluffy one.
- Bold cooling time: Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting. This ensures it holds its shape and is easier to slice.
- Bold storage methods: Make sure to store the cake in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from drying out.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Keep the Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container.
- It will remain fresh for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake
- Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Bold Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking every 10 seconds to avoid overheating.
- Bold Stovetop: Warm slices in a pan over low heat for a few minutes on each side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Apple Cider Donut Cake.
Can I use other types of cider?
Yes! You can experiment with different fruit ciders for unique flavors.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute sour cream with a plant-based yogurt and use vegan butter.
What can I serve with Apple Cider Donut Cake?
This cake pairs well with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Can I customize this Apple Cider Donut Cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts or raisins for added texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful treat that captures all the flavors of traditional apple cider donuts in an easy-to-make form. Its moist texture and spiced sweetness make it perfect as an afternoon snack or dessert. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite add-ins like nuts or dried fruits for added flair!
Apple Cider Donut Cake
Indulge in the delicious flavors of fall with this easy-to-make Apple Cider Donut Cake! This delightful cake captures the essence of your favorite seasonal treat, combining rich apple cider with warm spices for a cozy dessert experience. Perfect for gatherings or as an afternoon snack, its moist texture and spiced sweetness are sure to please everyone at the table. With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, even beginner bakers can create this scrumptious treat. Top it off with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for that extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature alongside your favorite beverage.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
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
- ¼ cup (66 grams) sour cream
- 1–½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1–½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- Pinch allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9-inch square baking dish by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper.
- In a large sauté pan, boil fresh apple cider until reduced by half. Add diced cold butter to the hot cider and whisk to combine.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugars, olive oil, sour cream, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, allspice, and salt until well blended.
- Gradually add the boiled cider mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
- Gently fold in the all-purpose flour until just mixed; avoid overmixing.
- Pour batter into the prepared dish and bake for 22–25 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool slightly before brushing with melted butter and sprinkling with cinnamon sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 315
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider folding in chopped nuts or dried fruits. Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.