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 enjoying with a cup of coffee, this cake captures the essence of fall with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cake requires minimal effort and time, making it a great option for busy bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apple cider and warm spices creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a dessert, breakfast option, or even a snack throughout the day.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 12 slices, it’s ideal for parties, family gatherings, or potlucks.
• No Special Equipment Needed: You can whip this up with basic kitchen tools you likely already own.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment makes preparation simple and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9” square baking dish
• Large saute pan
• Medium mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cooling rack
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• 9” square baking dish: This shape ensures even baking and allows for easy removal when lined with parchment paper.
• Large saute pan: Perfect for reducing apple cider quickly while concentrating its flavors.
• Cooling rack: Allows air circulation around the cake, preventing sogginess as it cools.

Ingredients

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

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Butter or spray with oil a 9” square baking dish and line it with parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides. This will create a sling for easy removal later.

Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider

In a large saute pan, boil the apple cider until reduced by half. This should take about 5 minutes. After boiling, measure to ensure you have ¾ cup remaining. Add the diced butter to the hot cider and whisk until combined.

Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Eggs
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar
4. Oil
5. Sour cream
6. Baking powder
7. Baking soda
8. Ground cinnamon
9. Allspice
10. Salt

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Slowly whisk the boiled cider mixture into the wet ingredients until well combined.

Step 5: Mix in Flour

Stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and bake in the preheated oven until puffed and golden brown—approximately 22-25 minutes.

Step 7: Cool and Top

Once baked, place the cake on a cooling rack for 5 minutes before topping it with butter. Brush it around as it melts.

Step 8: Add Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture liberally over the buttered surface.

Step 9: Final Cooling

Remove the cake from the pan using parchment paper and let it cool on a rack until slightly warm before cutting into squares.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. Whether you’re sharing it at a gathering or enjoying it solo, here are some creative ways to serve this delicious cake.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for added richness and a light texture.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a comforting treat that contrasts beautifully with the cake’s flavors.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the sweetness by drizzling caramel sauce over the cake. The sticky sweetness complements the apple cider perfectly.

Fresh Fruit Salad

• A side of fresh fruit salad adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the cake. Consider using seasonal fruits like pears or berries.

Coffee or Tea

• Pairing your slice with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea elevates the experience, making it perfect for brunch or afternoon tea.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• For an elegant touch, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar just before serving. It adds a visually appealing finish and extra sweetness.

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: Choose high-quality apple cider for the best flavor. Fresh cider enhances the overall taste and aroma of your cake.

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the correct amounts for each ingredient.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to verify that your oven is at the correct temperature. An accurate temperature ensures even baking.

• Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 5 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack. This helps maintain its shape and prevents sticking.

• Store Correctly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep them fresh and moist.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving Apple Cider Donut Cake alongside complementary dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great side dish options that pair well:

1. Cinnamon Apples: Sauté sliced apples in butter and cinnamon for a warm side that echoes the cake’s flavors.
2. Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake, adding texture and balance.
3. Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted almonds or pecans provides a nice crunch and nutty flavor that complements dessert.
4. Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheddar or creamy brie on a cheese board for an interesting combination of savory and sweet.
5. Herbed Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with fresh herbs make for an unexpected but delicious pairing.
6. Spiced Carrot Salad: Shredded carrots tossed with spices add color and brightness, enhancing your dessert table’s variety.
7. Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with maple syrup create an earthy, sweet side that pairs nicely.
8. Fruit Compote: A mixed berry compote served warm can provide additional fruity goodness alongside every slice of cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Apple Cider Donut Cake, it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the cider reduction: Not reducing the apple cider can lead to a cake that lacks depth of flavor. Always boil it down to concentrate the taste before adding it to your batter.
• Using warm ingredients: Adding cold ingredients can affect how well they combine. Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not properly greasing the baking dish: A sticky cake is frustrating! Be sure to grease your baking dish well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different, and baking times may vary. Check for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
• Serving too soon: Letting the cake cool slightly allows flavors to settle and makes cutting easier. Be patient for optimal enjoyment!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The cake will last up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

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

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and heat for about 2-3 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I use other types of cider?

You can substitute other fruit ciders, but apple cider will provide the best flavor profile for this recipe.

How do I customize my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Add nuts like walnuts or pecans, or incorporate dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for extra texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt as a substitute, providing similar moisture and tanginess in your cake.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake captures all the delightful flavors of traditional donuts while being incredibly simple to make. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various mix-ins! Give this recipe a try — it’s perfect as an afternoon snack or dessert!