When the leaves start to change and the scent of cinnamon fills the air, it’s time to bring a little taste of autumn into your kitchen with a delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake. This charming cake combines the heartiness of apple cider with warm spices, creating a cozy dessert perfect for any fall gathering or simply enjoying at home with a warm cup of tea. Its tender texture and rich flavor will wrap you in a delightful hug just like your favorite sweater, making it a must-bake this season.
What You’ll Need for Apple Cider Donut Cake
To whip up this sweet treat, gather the following ingredients:
- 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp (5 g) ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp (1 g) nutmeg
- 1 tsp (5.6 g) salt
- 1 1/2 tbsp (21 g) baking powder
- 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (110 g) brown sugar
- 1 cup (224 g) vegetable oil
- 3 eggs (at room temperature)
- 1 cup (250 g) unsweetened applesauce (at room temperature)
- 1 cup (248 g) apple cider juice (not vinegar, at room temperature)
- 1 tsp (5.6 g) vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar
- 2 tsp (5 g) cinnamon
Cooking Apple Cider Donut Cake: Step by Step
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a bundt pan with non-stick spray, then dust with flour. Set it aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. Whisk to combine all the dry ingredients, then set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mix on medium speed until everything is well combined.
- Add the eggs to the sugar mixture and continue mixing on medium speed for about two minutes.
- Next, add the applesauce and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- With the mixer on low speed, carefully add one third of the flour mixture followed by half of the apple cider. Continue alternating between the flour mixture and apple cider, ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; the batter will be slightly thin.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for about 50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool in the bundt pan for an hour before inverting it onto a cake plate or cooling rack.
- To finish, brush the warm cake with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix the extra sugar with the cinnamon, then sprinkle it generously over the cake, patting it down for a better coating.
How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake
Now that your cake is perfectly baked and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar, it’s time to serve! This cake is delightful on its own, but you can also pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate this treat to the next level. For an even more festive touch, consider serving it alongside spiced apple cider or a hot cup of coffee.
Helpful Tricks for Apple Cider Donut Cake
- Storage: Keep your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it longer, it can be frozen for a few months. Just make sure to wrap it well!
- Substitution Ideas: If you’re out of applesauce, you can substitute it with unsweetened mashed bananas for a different twist. You can also experiment with adding chopped nuts or cranberries into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Glaze Option: For a sweeter finish, consider drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider over the cake after it cools.
Apple Cider Donut Cake FAQs
Can I use fresh apple cider instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Fresh apple cider will give your cake a wonderful homemade flavor and sense of cozy fall vibes.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake keeps well for several days, making it a great option for preparing in advance for gatherings or special occasions.
What if I don’t have a bundt pan?
If you don’t have a bundt pan, you can use a regular round cake pan or a loaf pan, adjusting the baking time accordingly. Just watch closely to prevent it from overbaking.
This Apple Cider Donut Cake is sure to become a favorite in your home as the temperatures drop and the leaves turn. So, roll up your sleeves, don your apron, and bring a bit of fall magic into your kitchen today! Enjoy every delicious slice, and happy baking!