Apple Cider Donut Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy fall treat that’s as delightful as it is simple, this Apple Cider Donut Cake is the perfect answer. Imagine indulging in the warm, spiced flavor of apple cider donuts without all the fuss. This cake captures that essence beautifully and transforms it into an easy snack cake that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Whether you’re making it for a cozy evening at home or bringing it to a potluck, everyone will adore this delicious dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful cake in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the warm flavors of apple cider and cinnamon.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s an everyday treat or a special dessert, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week—if it lasts that long!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of fresh apple cider and warm spices makes every bite a delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Apple Cider Donut Cake uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely have on hand. Let’s gather everything you need to create this delicious treat!

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

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist on the classic spice blend.
• Incorporate Fruit: Fold in some diced apples or pears for extra fruitiness and texture.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures your cake bakes evenly right from the start. Grease a 9” square baking dish with butter or oil and line it with parchment paper, leaving enough overhang to create a sling. This will help you lift out the cake easily once it’s baked.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, bring your fresh apple cider to a boil and reduce it by half, which takes about 5 minutes. This concentrates the flavor and sweetness of the cider. Make sure you measure out ¾ cup after boiling so you get just the right amount.

Step 3: Mix 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. This step combines all those lovely flavors that make this cake so special!

Step 4: Combine with Cider

Slowly whisk in the boiled cider into your wet mixture. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also helps incorporate everything smoothly.

Step 5: Add Flour

Gently stir in the flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want your cake to be tender and fluffy.

Step 6: Bake It!

Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish and bake in your preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s puffed up and golden brown on top.

Step 7: Cool Down

Once baked, place your cake on a cooling rack for about 5 minutes. This allows it to cool slightly while still being warm enough to melt some butter on top.

Step 8: Create That Delicious Topping

Spread cool room temperature butter over the top as it melts into every nook and cranny of your warm cake. In a small bowl, mix together ¼ cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mix generously over your melted butter—it’s what gives this cake its signature flavor!

Step 9: Serve It Up

Carefully remove your cake from the pan using the parchment sling and let it cool completely on a rack before cutting into squares. Now it’s ready to be enjoyed!

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is sure to become one of your favorites—simple to make yet full of comforting flavors! Enjoy each slice with family or friends; they won’t be able to resist coming back for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donut Cake

This cake is a delight that you’ll want to perfect, and with these pro tips, you can ensure it turns out amazing every time!

• Use fresh apple cider: The flavor of your cake will greatly benefit from using fresh apple cider rather than the bottled stuff. Fresh cider has a vibrant taste that really enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the light and fluffy cake we’re aiming for.

• Check for doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so make sure to check your cake for doneness a couple of minutes before the timer goes off. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

• Let it cool slightly before cutting: Allowing your cake to cool on the rack for a bit gives it time to set, making it easier to cut into neat squares without crumbling.

• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spice levels according to your taste! Adding nutmeg or cardamom can give an extra depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the apple cider.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

This Apple Cider Donut Cake makes for a charming dessert or snack option. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a rich and creamy texture that complements the spiced flavors beautifully.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top for a crunchy contrast. They not only add texture but also enhance the nutty flavors in the cake.

Side Dishes

• Hot beverages: Pair your cake with warm apple cider or spiced tea. The warmth will enhance the cozy flavors in your cake while providing a comforting drink.
• Fresh fruit: Serve slices alongside crisp apple wedges or pears. The freshness balances out the sweetness of the cake and adds a refreshing element.
• Ice cream alternative: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream offers a creamy counterpart that melts beautifully into each slice, adding indulgent richness without overwhelming sweetness.
• Yogurt parfait: For a lighter option, consider serving it with yogurt layered with granola and fresh fruits. This adds a delightful crunch and makes for a more substantial snack or breakfast option.

With these serving suggestions, your Apple Cider Donut Cake will shine on any table! Enjoy sharing this delicious treat with family and friends—it’s bound to become everyone’s favorite fall dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, enjoy it throughout the week, or even share it with friends and family. Here are some tips on how to store it:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer a chilled treat, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy!

Reheating

• For a warm slice, microwave for about 10-15 seconds until heated through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a toaster oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider for the Apple Cider Donut Cake?

While apple juice can work in a pinch, using fresh apple cider will give your Apple Cider Donut Cake a richer flavor. If possible, stick with cider for the best results!

How long does the Apple Cider Donut Cake last?

The Apple Cider Donut Cake will stay fresh at room temperature for about 3 days when stored properly. If refrigerated, it can last up to a week.

Can I substitute the sour cream in the Apple Cider Donut Cake recipe?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt works well as a substitute for sour cream in this recipe. It will maintain the moistness while providing a similar tang.

Is this recipe suitable for making mini cakes or muffins?

Yes! You can easily adapt the Apple Cider Donut Cake into mini cakes or muffins by adjusting the baking time to around 15-20 minutes.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Apple Cider Donut Cake as much as I do! It’s such a comforting and delightful treat that brings back cozy autumn vibes. Whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or sharing it with loved ones, this cake is sure to brighten your day. So roll up your sleeves, get that mixing bowl ready, and savor every sweet bite!