apple cider donut cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake: 7 Sweet Reasons to Bake It Today

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Apple Cider Donut Cake: 7 Sweet Reasons to Bake It Today

Craving cozy fall flavors? This apple cider donut cake is moist, spiced, and easy to make. Learn 7 irresistible reasons to bake it today!

Introduction

There's something magical about the combination of apples and cinnamon that instantly evokes the warmth of fall. This apple cider donut cake brings that comforting blend to your kitchen in a delightful, easy-to-make dessert. Imagine a moist, spiced cake infused with the rich flavors of apple cider and applesauce, all topped with a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating. It's like enjoying a warm apple cider donut without the frying! I love how this cake captures the essence of autumn and is perfect for cozy gatherings or a special treat with your afternoon tea. Plus, it comes together in just about 1 hour and 10 minutes, making it a breeze to prepare.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

  • Apple Cider (1½ cups): Provides a deep apple flavor and moisture to the cake.
  • Sugar (⅔ cup): Sweetens the batter and balances the tartness of the cider.
  • Eggs (2 large): Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
  • Sour Cream (⅔ cup): Adds moisture and a slight tanginess to the cake.
  • Unsalted Butter (½ cup, melted): Contributes to the cake's tender crumb and rich flavor.
  • Ground Nutmeg (1¼ teaspoons): Infuses the cake with a warm, aromatic spice.
  • Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor profile.
  • Salt (½ teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
  • All-Purpose Flour (1½ cups): Provides structure to the cake.
  • Baking Powder (1½ teaspoons) and Baking Soda (½ teaspoon): Leavening agents that help the cake rise.

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:

  • Granulated Sugar (¼ cup): Adds sweetness and a slight crunch.
  • Ground Cinnamon (¼ teaspoon): Gives the topping a warm, spicy kick.

Prep Time & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch Bundt pan with butter or non-stick spray.
  2. Reduce the Cider: In a small saucepan over medium heat, simmer the apple cider until it reduces to about ½ cup. This concentrates the apple flavor. Let it cool slightly.
  3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the reduced cider, sugar, eggs, sour cream, melted butter, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
  6. Pour Batter into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool and Glaze: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Prepare Cinnamon-Sugar Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon.
  10. Coat the Cake: Brush the cooled cake with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top.
  11. Serve: Slice and enjoy your homemade apple cider donut cake!

Tips & Tricks

  • Use Fresh Cider: For the best flavor, use fresh, unfiltered apple cider.
  • Add Apple Chunks: For extra texture, fold in 1½ to 2 cups of peeled and diced apples into the batter before baking.
  • Spice Variations: Experiment with adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for a different flavor profile.
  • Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream complements the spiced flavors of the cake.
  • Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm cake.
  • Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cake for an indulgent treat.
  • Hot Apple Cider: Serve with a cup of hot apple cider to enhance the apple flavors.

Storage & Reheating

  • Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Info

  • **Calories