As I took my first bite of this Apple Cider Donut Cake, warmth surged through me, making it feel like a sweet hug on a cool autumn day. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; with just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a moist and flavorful snack that truly captures the essence of traditional apple cider donuts. Picture yourself enjoying this tender cake, enhanced with vibrant apple flavors and a sugary cinnamon topping, perfect for cozy evenings or afternoon gatherings. It’s an easy dessert that promises to elevate your snack game and impress your friends and family. Curious about how to make this delightful treat? Let’s dive in and turn your kitchen into a haven of fall flavors!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Simplicity: With just a 30-minute prep time, this Apple Cider Donut Cake is incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice and expert bakers alike.
Warmth of Autumn: The infusion of fresh apple cider and cinnamon evokes the comforting flavors of fall, making each bite a delightful experience.
Moist Texture: Enjoy a soft, tender crumb that rivals traditional donuts, providing that satisfying melt-in-your-mouth quality.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve it at your next gathering alongside a warm drink, and watch it disappear—everyone will be begging for the recipe!
Versatile Pairing: Whether it’s with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a scoop of ice cream, this cake complements various occasions. Don’t miss out on elevating your snack game with this delightful treat!
Apple Cider Donut Cake Ingredients
For the Batter
• Fresh Apple Cider – Ensure you use unfiltered fresh apple cider for the best flavor base.
• Butter – Adds richness; consider vegan butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.
• Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; try coconut sugar for a more unique sweetness.
• Brown Sugar – Enhances sweetness with a touch of molasses flavor.
• Light Olive Oil – Provides moisture and tenderness; can substitute with vegetable oil.
• Sour Cream – Contributes creaminess; Greek yogurt serves as a great alternative.
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates structure; measure accurately for optimal results.
• Baking Powder & Baking Soda – Essential leavening agents to achieve a light, airy texture.
• Cinnamon – Infuses warm flavor into the cake and topping; a must-have for that autumn vibe.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness and amplifies overall flavor.
For the Topping
• Melted Butter – Use to brush over the cake for added flavor and to help the cinnamon sugar adhere.
• Cinnamon Sugar – A delightful mix of cinnamon and sugar that creates a sweet crust for your Apple Cider Donut Cake.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Donut Cake
Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
Begin by pouring ¾ cup of fresh apple cider into a shallow pan. Heat it over medium heat, allowing it to simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes until it has reduced by half. You’ll know it’s ready when it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. Once reduced, remove it from the heat and stir in ½ cup of melted butter. Let it cool slightly.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled apple cider mixture with ⅓ cup of light olive oil and ½ cup of sour cream. Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt for flavor. Mix until fully incorporated, ensuring there are no lumps. The mixture should be smooth and slightly shiny, indicating that it is ready for the next step.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gradually whisk the reduced cider mixture into the wet ingredients until well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of baking soda. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Stop when just combined; a few small lumps are okay.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, line a square baking dish (8×8 inches) with parchment paper, ensuring it hangs over the edges for easy removal. Grease the parchment lightly with butter or non-stick spray. Once your oven is ready, pour the batter into the prepared dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake the Apple Cider Donut Cake for about 22-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be slightly golden and firm to the touch.
Step 6: Cool and Top the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the dish for about 5 minutes. This will help it set without becoming too crumbly. After cooling slightly, brush the top of the cake with melted butter and generously sprinkle with a mixture of cinnamon sugar (equal parts cinnamon and granulated sugar). The topping will create a delightful, sweet crust.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, carefully lift the Apple Cider Donut Cake out of the baking dish using the parchment paper overhang. Cut into squares and serve warm, perhaps with a cup of coffee or tea. Enjoy the fall flavors bursting from each slice, and watch how this comforting snack disappears quickly!
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Donut Cake
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Proper Cider Choice: Use only unfiltered fresh apple cider for the richest flavor; avoid substitutes like apple juice, which won’t yield the same depth.
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Measuring Flour: Accurately measure flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife to prevent a dense cake.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined; overmixing will lead to a tough texture, rather than the desired soft crumb.
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Oven Accuracy: Always use an oven thermometer for precise baking temperatures, as even slight differences can impact the doneness of your Apple Cider Donut Cake.
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Cool Before Topping: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before brushing with butter and adding cinnamon sugar for an ideal texture on top.
Make Ahead Options
This Apple Cider Donut Cake is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to create delightful snacks with minimal hassle! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the wet and dry ingredients, then cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the batter into your prepared dish and bake as instructed. Additionally, you can make the cinnamon-sugar topping ahead as well—store it in an airtight container at room temperature. This way, everything is ready to go, and you’ll have a cozy, delicious cake in no time, just as fresh and delightful as if you made it that day!
Apple Cider Donut Cake Variations
Feel free to explore and customize this delightful cake to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Replace butter and sour cream with coconut oil and dairy-free yogurt. Your cake will still be rich and delicious!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains xanthan gum for the best texture and rise.
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Spice it Up: Add ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger to the batter for a warming, spiced flavor that beautifully complements the apple cider.
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Extra Sweetness: Drizzle with a maple glaze made from powdered sugar and maple syrup for an added touch of autumn sweetness.
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Flavored Nuts: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that enhances each bite.
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Cinnamon Sugar Twist: Use a mix of brown and white sugar for the topping; this adds a hint more richness and caramel notes, enhancing the overall flavor.
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Fruit Variations: Incorporate about a cup of diced apples or pears for added texture and bursts of fresh fruit flavor with each slice.
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Seasonal Additions: Consider adding a splash of bourbon or rum to the cake batter for an adult twist, delivering deeper flavors perfect for fall gatherings.
This cake is versatile, just like some of my other favorites, such as Apple Crisp Warm and Apple Cinnamon Cookies. Enjoy getting creative with your Apple Cider Donut Cake!
What to Serve with Apple Cider Donut Cake?
Indulging in a slice of this sweet delight calls for thoughtful pairings that enhance its warm, autumn flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The rich, buttery texture complements the sweetness of the cake while adding a savory contrast that balances the flavors.
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Spiced Chai Latte: A comforting, aromatic drink that echoes the warm spices of the cake, making each bite feel even more cozy.
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Fresh Apple Salad: Crisp, tart apples mixed with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing crunch that beautifully contrasts the cake’s tender crumb.
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Cinnamon Ice Cream: A scoop of this creamy delight adds a cool, sweet touch, while the cinnamon harmonizes with the flavors of the cake.
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Roasted Butternut Squash: The natural sweetness and hearty texture of roasted squash enrich the meal, creating a lovely harmony with the dessert.
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Tea with Honey: A cup of your favorite tea, lightly sweetened with honey, complements the cake’s flavor without overpowering it—perfect for an afternoon treat.
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Maple Pecan Crumble: This warm topping can be served alongside the cake for a textural contrast, adding crunch and a nutty flavor that dances with the spices.
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Caramel Sauce Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of warm caramel sauce elevates the cake to a whole new level, introducing another layer of sweetness that’s irresistible.
Pair these delightful options with your Apple Cider Donut Cake for a warm and inviting feast that celebrates the flavors of fall!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Donut Cake
Room Temperature: Store your Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps it moist and fresh, perfect for quick snacking!
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Each slice will still be delightful and ready to enjoy.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months, ensuring the cake remains tasty for your future cravings.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5-10 minutes, or microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apple cider should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s essential to use unfiltered fresh apple cider for the best flavor. Regular apple juice or vinegar will not capture the rich, authentic taste needed for this delightful cake.
How do I store my Apple Cider Donut Cake?
For optimal freshness, keep your Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you plan to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to 3 days; it will retain its moist texture!
Can I freeze the Apple Cider Donut Cake?
Very! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe container. This method ensures your cake stays delicious for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as desired.
What should I do if my cake is dry?
If you find that your Apple Cider Donut Cake has turned out dry, next time check the flour measurement carefully, as using too much can lead to a dense texture. Be gentle when mixing, as overmixing can also dry out the cake. If you do end up with a dry cake, you can serve it warm with a drizzle of milk or a scoop of ice cream for added moisture.
Is this cake suitable for people with allergies?
Keep in mind that this recipe contains gluten and dairy. For a gluten-free version, you can try a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend, and for those avoiding dairy, substituting the butter with vegan butter or coconut oil will work beautifully. Always double-check ingredient labels if you have a specific allergy.
What can I do if I don’t have fresh apple cider on hand?
If you can’t find fresh apple cider, you can use unsweetened apple juice as an emergency substitute, but know that it won’t give you the same depth of flavor. To mimic the richness, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar for tang.
Moist Apple Cider Donut Cake Perfect for Cozy Fall Days
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pour ¾ cup of fresh apple cider into a shallow pan. Heat it over medium heat, allowing it to simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes until reduced by half. Stir in ½ cup of melted butter and let it cool slightly.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cooled apple cider mixture with ⅓ cup of light olive oil and ½ cup of sour cream. Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Gradually whisk the reduced cider mixture into the wet ingredients. In a separate bowl, sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of baking soda. Slowly fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a square baking dish (8x8 inches) with parchment paper and grease it lightly. Pour the batter into the prepared dish.
- Bake for about 22-25 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the dish for about 5 minutes. Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
- Lift the cake out using the parchment paper, cut into squares and serve warm.
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