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

• Easy Preparation: No complicated processes here! This recipe simplifies the classic donut experience into a quick and delightful cake.
• Rich Flavor: Infused with fresh apple cider and warm spices, each slice bursts with seasonal flavors that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving: Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack, this cake fits any occasion perfectly.
• Minimal Clean-Up: With fewer dishes involved compared to traditional donuts, you can enjoy your delicious creation without the hassle.
• Impressive Appearance: The golden-brown cake topped with a cinnamon-sugar coating looks stunning on any table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything in place will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch square baking dish
• Large sauté pan
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch square baking dish: This is perfect for achieving even cooking and creating a great presentation for your Apple Cider Donut Cake.
• Whisk: A good whisk ensures that all ingredients blend smoothly, helping to create a fluffy texture in your cake.
• Cooling rack: Using a cooling rack allows air to circulate around the cake, preventing it from becoming soggy as it cools.

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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 (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 your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9” square baking dish by buttering it or spraying it with oil. Line it with parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides, creating a sling for easy removal later.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, bring the apple cider to a boil until it reduces by half—this should take about 5 minutes. Measure out to ensure you have approximately ¾ cup. Add diced butter to the hot cider and whisk until combined.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine:
* Eggs
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Olive oil
Sour cream
Baking powder
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Allspice
* Salt

Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Slowly whisk the reduced cider mixture into the wet ingredients until fully incorporated. Gradually stir in flour until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake in your preheated oven until puffed and golden brown—about 22–25 minutes.

Step 6: Cool & Finish

Let the cake cool on a rack for about five minutes after removing it from the oven. Place a tablespoon of butter on top of the warm cake and spread it around as it melts. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon; sprinkle generously over the melted butter.

Step 7: Serve

Carefully remove the cake from the pan using the parchment sling. Allow it to cool slightly before cutting into squares and serving. Enjoy every bite of this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, there are many delicious ways to serve it.

With Whipped Cream

• Top slices of the cake with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy touch that complements the rich flavors.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Serve warm pieces of cake with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and taste.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A generous drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness, enhancing the apple cider flavor beautifully.

Serve with Coffee or Tea

• Enjoy slices of this cake alongside your favorite coffee or tea beverage for a cozy afternoon treat.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Slice the cake into smaller pieces and serve it on a platter with fresh apples, nuts, and other seasonal treats for a charming dessert display.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To achieve the best results with your Apple Cider Donut Cake, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh apple cider and eggs yield the best flavor and texture in your cake.
• Measure Carefully: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking. Use a kitchen scale if possible for precision.
• Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting; this helps maintain its shape and moisture.
• Customize the Spices: Feel free to adjust cinnamon or add nutmeg based on your flavor preferences for an extra twist.
• Store Correctly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

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

1. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy brie contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cake.

2. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad featuring seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the cake.

3. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts add crunch and flavor that complements the apple cider notes in the cake.

4. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and fruit to create a wholesome side that pairs well with dessert.

5. Pumpkin Soup
   A warm bowl of pumpkin soup offers earthy flavors that enhance the autumnal feel of the cake.

6. Maple Glazed Carrots
   Sweet, roasted carrots glazed in maple syrup bring out similar flavor profiles found in apple cider desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Apple Cider Donut Cake can be simple, but certain common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Incorrect cider measurement: Always measure your apple cider precisely after reducing it. Too much or too little can affect the cake’s moisture and flavor.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing the batter too much can make the cake tough. Stir until just combined for a tender texture.

• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before cutting ensures cleaner slices. Patience is key for presentation!

• Inaccurate baking time: Every oven is different; check your cake a few minutes early to prevent overbaking. Look for a golden color and a toothpick that comes out clean.

• Not using parchment paper: Lining your baking dish with parchment helps in easy removal of the cake. Don’t skip this step to avoid sticking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• The Apple Cider Donut Cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm the slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat until heated through, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Donut Cake that you might find helpful!

What makes this Apple Cider Donut Cake moist?

The combination of fresh apple cider and sour cream adds moisture, ensuring a soft texture that’s enjoyable with every bite.

Can I use other types of oil instead of light olive oil?

Yes, you may substitute light olive oil with other neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil without affecting the flavor significantly.

How do I customize my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or spices like nutmeg to personalize your cake further!

What should I do if my cake is too dense?

If your cake turns out dense, ensure you haven’t overmixed and check that your leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) are fresh.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is an easy yet delightful treat that captures all the flavors of traditional apple cider donuts in a simple snack cake form. Its versatility allows for various customization options, making it perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy every bite!