Apple Cider Donut Cake

Introduction There’s nothing quite like the comforting flavors of fall, and one treat that captures the essence of autumn is the classic apple cider donut. But what if you could enjoy that warm, spiced, apple-infused goodness in a cake form? Enter the Apple Cider Donut Cake — a perfect blend of moist, dense cake with the flavors of a freshly baked apple cider donut. Ideal for cozy mornings or dessert after dinner, this cake is a must-try for any fan of fall flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donut Cake This recipe is not just a cake — it’s a celebration of autumn. It brings together the rich flavors of sweet apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg, along with the subtle tang of apple cider. Plus, it’s simple to make, whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out. Here’s what makes this cake irresistible:

• Perfectly Moist Texture: The cake is made with ingredients that ensure it stays moist and fluffy, perfect for slicing and savoring with your favorite fall beverage.
• Warm Spices: A balanced mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of allspice will transport you straight to an apple orchard.
• Apple Cider Flavor: The addition of apple cider not only infuses the cake with a delightful taste but also adds a touch of tanginess that pairs perfectly with the sweetness.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward ingredients and clear instructions, anyone can create this cake in their own kitchen.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Cake To make this delectable Apple Cider Donut Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) packed brown sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup (240ml) apple cider
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk or buttermilk
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon

Instructions for Apple Cider Donut Cake

this recipe

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch bundt pan or a 10-inch round cake pan, and set aside.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the batter.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the apple cider and milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined — don’t overmix!
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Make the Topping: While the cake is cooling, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
9. Coat the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, brush it lightly with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over the top.

Serving Tips Serve slices of your Apple Cider Donut Cake warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee, hot apple cider, or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate autumn treat. It also pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Tips for the Best Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Use Fresh Apple Cider: For the most authentic flavor, use fresh, unprocessed apple cider.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and milk are at room temperature to help the batter come together smoothly.
• Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can make the cake dense and heavy. Mix until just combined to ensure a light texture.

Conclusion The Apple Cider Donut Cake is the perfect blend of moist cake, warm spices, and apple cider that will have your house smelling like fall in no time. Whether you’re enjoying it with a morning coffee or as a dessert after a cozy meal, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Bake it once, and it might just become your go-to fall dessert!

Serving and Storage Tips for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving Tips:

• Pair with a Beverage: Serve slices of the Apple Cider Donut Cake with a warm beverage like coffee, hot chocolate, or apple cider for a cozy fall treat. For a special touch, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
• Top with Glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider over the top of the cake.
• Make It Festive: Dust the cake with a light coating of powdered sugar or add a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg before serving to enhance its appearance and flavor.

Storage Tips:

• Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor.
• Refrigeration: If you need to keep the cake for longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Be sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezing: For longer storage, wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer. To enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature for a few hours or warm it gently in the oven.
• Reheating: To bring back some of its fresh-baked flavor, gently warm slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will soften the cake and enhance the spices.

With these serving and storage tips, your Apple Cider Donut Cake will stay delicious and enjoyable for days, ensuring you can savor the taste of fall long after the baking is done!

1. Can I substitute apple cider with apple juice? Yes, you can use apple juice as a substitute for apple cider, but keep in mind that apple cider has a deeper, richer flavor compared to apple juice. If using apple juice, consider adding a touch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely! This cake can be made a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It will actually taste even better as the flavors meld. If storing longer, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 2-3 months.
3. Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, you can make this cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum or guar gum to help provide structure. Keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly from the original version, but it will still be delicious!
4. What can I use instead of buttermilk? If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using. This will mimic the tangy flavor of buttermilk and help keep the cake moist.

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