Apple Cider Donut Cake: A Cozy Fall Treat You’ll Love

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful twist on the classic treat, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home. Imagine indulging in a moist, spiced cake bursting with warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, complemented by the sweetness of apple cider. This delicious apple-flavored cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth, but it also fills your kitchen with a fragrant aroma that evokes memories of autumn festivities.

Furthermore, this charming dessert combines the joy of traditional apple cider donuts with the convenience of a cake, making it an ideal centerpiece for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking to enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea, this scrumptious apple cider-infused cake invites everyone to savor each bite and relish the changing seasons.

What Makes This Cake Special

The Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of fall with the nostalgic touch of a beloved classic. What sets this cake apart is its moist texture and the rich, aromatic notes of spiced apple cider. Each slice offers a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth, reminiscent of freshly made cider donuts.

Moreover, the cake is incredibly versatile; it can be served as a dessert or even enjoyed with your morning coffee. For a complete experience, consider pairing this cake with a refreshing drink like pineapple cucumber mint juice, which complements the cake’s rich flavors beautifully. Additionally, the dusting of cinnamon sugar on top adds a delightful crunch that enhances each bite.

In summary, the Apple Cider Donut Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a cozy slice of seasonal goodness that brings a taste of autumn to your table all year round.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Get ready to delight your taste buds with a soft and moist Apple Cider Donut Cake that captures the essence of autumn. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious treat:

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Fresh apple cider	1 ½ cups	—
Cold unsalted butter, diced	4 tbsp (66 g)	—
Large eggs	2	—
Granulated sugar	⅓ cup (70 g)	—
Lightly packed brown sugar	½ cup (110 g)	—
Light olive oil (or neutral oil)	⅓ cup (70 g)	—
Sour cream (or Greek yogurt)	¼ cup (66 g)	—
Baking powder	1 ½ tsp	—
Baking soda	½ tsp	—
Ground cinnamon	1 ½ tsp	—
Allspice	Pinch	—
Coarse kosher salt	¼ tsp	—
All-purpose flour	1 ¾ cups (210 g)	—

For the Topping

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Butter, cool room temperature	1 tbsp	—
Granulated sugar	¼ cup (50 g)	—
Ground cinnamon	1 tsp	—

This recipe is not only easy but also full of delightful flavors that remind us of comforting fall gatherings. Once you’ve tried this cake, you’ll be inspired to explore more seasonal treats as seen in our apple pecan cake with caramel glaze. Enjoy baking!

How to Prepare Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step	Instructions
1. Reduce Apple Cider	Pour 1½ cups fresh apple cider into a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat until reduced by half (about ¾ cup). Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Cream Butter & Sugars	In a large mixing bowl, beat together 4 tbsp cold diced butter, ⅓ cup granulated sugar, and ½ cup brown sugar until creamy.
3. Add Wet Ingredients	Mix in 2 large eggs, ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and ⅓ cup light olive oil (or neutral oil). Stir in the cooled reduced apple cider.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients	In another bowl, whisk together 1¾ cups all-purpose flour, 1½ tsp baking powder, ½ tsp baking soda, 1½ tsp ground cinnamon, pinch of allspice, and ¼ tsp coarse kosher salt.
5. Combine Wet & Dry	Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Bake the Cake	Pour batter into a greased cake pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Prepare Topping	In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1 tbsp softened butter.
8. Finish Cake	Spread the cinnamon-sugar butter mixture over the warm cake. Let cool slightly before slicing.

This Apple Cider Donut Cake pairs well with a refreshing salad like carrot apple salad, bringing balance to your meal. For more inspiration on similar desserts, check out this apple cider doughnut cake recipe. Enjoy your flavor-packed creation!

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture

To create the perfect apple cider donut cake, the texture is crucial. Start by using fresh apple cider, as it enhances both flavor and moisture. While mixing the batter, be mindful of the duration; overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Instead, mix until the ingredients are just combined for a light, airy texture.

Additionally, consider the baking temperature. Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking. A lower temperature can help the cake rise beautifully without burning the edges. For added moisture and a unique twist, try incorporating yogurt or sour cream into your batter. This technique also yields a lovely crumb.

Lastly, let your cake cool completely before slicing. This allows the flavors to settle and ensures that each piece maintains its ideal moistness. If you’re looking for a delightful apple-inspired dessert, check out this Apple Pecan Cake with Caramel Glaze. Enjoy the journey to creating your best apple cider donut cake!

Serving Suggestions for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful treat that pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. For a cozy breakfast or brunch, consider serving it warm, dusted with powdered sugar, along with a cup of hot coffee or spiced chai. This combination enhances the cake’s flavors and makes for a perfect morning indulgence.

Additionally, for a dessert that feels elevated, you can serve slices of your Apple Cider Donut Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. This brings a contrasting texture and temperature, which delightfully complements the moist cake.

For a lighter option, try pairing it with a refreshing salad, such as a carrot apple salad. This adds a crunchy and tangy element that balances the rich flavors of the cake. Whatever your choice, enjoy the comforting experience of this delectable dessert!

Storage Tips for Apple Cider Donut Cake

To keep your delightful apple cider donut cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days. For longer preservation, refrigerate it, where it can last up to a week. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing slices. When ready to eat, simply thaw and savor! For a refreshing side, try pairing it with a carrot apple salad for a burst of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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