Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful cake version of the classic fall favorite: apple cider donuts. This cake is infused with the warm flavors of apple cider and cinnamon, creating a moist and spiced dessert that’s perfect for cozy autumn afternoons or holiday gatherings. The texture is soft, and the sugar coating on the outside adds a satisfying crunch, reminiscent of traditional donuts.
What Is Apple Cider Donut Cake?
This cake takes the flavors of apple cider donuts and transforms them into a full-sized, easy-to-make cake. It features a moist crumb, a subtle apple flavor, and a cinnamon-sugar coating that adds a delightful texture and sweetness.
Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Cake
To make this cozy fall cake, you’ll need:
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
These ingredients create a perfectly spiced, moist cake with the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon.
Health Benefits of Apples
Apples provide fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to baked goods like this cake. The use of apple cider in the cake adds natural sweetness and enhances the apple flavor.
For another delicious fall dessert, try this Caramel Apple Cookies for a sweet and chewy treat.
How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake
Follow these steps to make this delicious, spiced cake:
Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider
In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a simmer and reduce it by half. This intensifies the apple flavor. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In a separate bowl, beat the butter and sugars together until creamy. Add the eggs, sour cream, vanilla, and reduced apple cider, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack.
Step 4: Coat with Cinnamon-Sugar
While the cake is still warm, brush it with melted butter and sprinkle a generous amount of cinnamon-sugar all over the cake. Let it cool completely before serving.
For more cozy desserts, try this Vanilla Bean Chiffon Cake for a light and fluffy treat.
Variations of Apple Cider Donut Cake
Here are a few fun ways to switch up the recipe:
- Add a glaze: Drizzle a simple vanilla glaze over the top of the cake for extra sweetness.
- Use spiced cider: For more warmth, use spiced apple cider instead of regular apple cider.
- Add apples: Fold in chopped apples for extra texture and apple flavor.
Best Occasions to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake
This cake is perfect for:
- Fall gatherings: Serve this cake at Halloween or Thanksgiving events for a seasonal treat.
- Cozy afternoons: Enjoy a slice with a warm cup of tea or coffee on a chilly day.
- Holiday dessert tables: A perfect addition to your holiday dessert lineup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:
- Not reducing the cider enough: Reducing the cider concentrates the apple flavor, so don’t skip this step.
- Overbaking the cake: Be careful not to overbake, as this can make the cake dry.
- Skipping the cinnamon-sugar coating: The cinnamon-sugar coating is what gives the cake its donut-like texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Donut Cake
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance and stored at room temperature. The flavor improves as it sits.
2. Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Apple cider provides a stronger flavor, but apple juice can be used as a substitute if necessary.
3. How should I store this cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
Conclusion
Apple Cider Donut Cake is the perfect fall dessert, bringing together the warm flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a moist, tender cake. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy slice with coffee, this cake is sure to be a hit. For more fall-inspired desserts, try pairing this cake with a spiced apple cider drink or another cozy fall treat.
For more dessert ideas, check out this Caramel Peach Upside-Down Cake for a fruity and indulgent option.