Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake is the perfect treat for those crisp fall days when the leaves are changing colors and the air is filled with a sense of warmth and nostalgia. Imagine biting into a soft, moist slice, where the sweet and spiced flavors transport you to an orchard filled with apple trees. This cake brings together all the comforts and joy of apple cider donuts but with the ease of a simple cake recipe. Friends and family will love gathering around for a slice or two, especially when it’s served warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top. And let me tell you, it’s not just about flavor. The smells wafting through your kitchen while this cake bakes? Absolutely divine! Let’s chat about not only why you need to make this Apple Cider Donut Cake but also how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe invites you to create something sweet and satisfying.

Why This Recipe Works

Apple Cider Donut Cake uses freshly boiled apple cider, which deepens its flavor. You’re not just getting the essence of apples; you’re experiencing the richness that comes from cooking it down. Moreover, the blend of spices creates warmth, evoking memories of cozy autumn afternoons. It’s all about those feelings we cherish during the fall. Even better, the steps are straightforward, so anyone can bake up this cake without stress. You can look forward to creating something delicious that tastes like your favorite bakery treat.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donut Cake

You’ll love this Apple Cider Donut Cake because it’s a delightful cross between a cake and your beloved donuts. This easy-to-make snack cake fits perfectly into gatherings, festive events, or just cozy nights at home. The versatility of this cake makes it suitable for many scenarios, whether you’re having friends over for coffee or serving it at a holiday gathering. Everyone will appreciate the comforting flavors, and it pairs beautifully with a cozy drink.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Cake

For the Cake:

• 1½ cups fresh apple cider
• 4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, diced (66 grams)
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar (70 grams)
• ½ cup lightly packed brown sugar (110 grams)
• ⅓ cup light olive oil (or other neutral oil, 70 grams)
• ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt, 66 grams)
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• Pinch of allspice
• ¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt (if using fine sea salt, use half by volume)
• 1¾ cups all-purpose flour (210 grams)

For the Topping:

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

Preparing the Oven and Baking Dish

Preheat Oven to 350°F

1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Next, butter or spray a 9” square baking dish with oil and line it with parchment paper to form a sling. This will help you easily lift the cake out later.

Reducing Apple Cider

Boil Apple Cider

1. In a large sauté pan, bring the apple cider to a boil and reduce it by half, which should take about 5 minutes.
2. After that, measure the cider to ensure it amounts to ¾ cup.
3. Finally, add the diced butter to the hot cider and whisk until it’s fully combined.

Mixing the Wet Ingredients

Combine Wet Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, olive oil, sour cream, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, allspice, and salt.

Incorporating Cider Mixture

Mix Boiled Cider into Wet Ingredients

1. Slowly whisk the boiled cider mixture into the wet ingredients, ensuring everything is fully combined and smooth.

Adding the Dry Ingredients

Stir in Flour

1. Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined. It’s important not to overmix, as this keeps the cake light and fluffy.

Baking the Cake

Pour and Bake

1. Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish.
2. Bake it in the preheated oven for 22-25 minutes, checking for a golden color and that it’s baked through the center.

Cooling and Topping the Cake

Cooling the Cake

1. When baked, remove the cake and let it cool on a rack for about 5 minutes.
2. Then, place the room temperature butter on top of the warm cake so it melts into a rich glaze.

Applying the Cinnamon Sugar

1. In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
2. After that, sprinkle this cinnamon sugar generously over the melted buttered surface, creating a sweet, flavorful crust.

Serving Suggestions

• For the best experience, serve the cake warm.
• It pairs nicely with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.

Tips for Success

• Make sure to measure your apple cider accurately, as this is key to achieving that delightful depth of flavor.
• Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting to get nice, clean slices.

Variations

• For a little extra crunch, try adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts.
• If you want a seasonal twist, you can substitute pumpkin spice for the ground cinnamon.

Storage Tips

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• You can refrigerate it for a week, but warm slices before serving for the best taste.

Pairing Ideas

• Enjoy with freshly brewed coffee or hot apple cider.
• It complements a charcuterie board beautifully, bringing a sweet note to savory items.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought apple cider?
Yes, store-bought apple cider is perfectly fine. Just look for one that’s 100% pure to get the best flavor.

2. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
Substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend works well. Just be ready to adjust for moisture if needed.

3. Can I freeze the apple cider donut cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will freeze well for up to three months.

4. How long does it take for the cake to cool before cutting?
Make sure to let the cake cool for at least 10-15 minutes to ensure clean slices.

5. Is this cake suitable for a breakfast treat?
Definitely! It pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a great breakfast option.

This Apple Cider Donut Cake offers a blend of rich, warm flavors with an inviting texture. It’s a wonderful choice for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Whatever the occasion, making this cake brings everyone together, inviting sweet indulgence into your life.

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