Apple Cider Donut Cake

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful twist on the classic fall treat. With its moist texture and warm spices, this bundt cake is perfect for any gathering or cozy evening at home. The sweet apple cider glaze and cinnamon sugar coating make it irresistible, capturing the essence of autumn in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, this cake is sure to bring joy to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious cake without any hassle.
• Perfect for Fall: The combination of apple cider and warm spices makes this cake a seasonal favorite.
• Great for Sharing: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it an ideal dessert for gatherings and celebrations.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it warm with coffee or as a delightful dessert after dinner; it’s enjoyable any time of day.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful bundt shape and glaze make this cake a stunning centerpiece.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, let’s ensure you have everything you need. Having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• 12-cup bundt pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool takes the effort out of mixing ingredients, ensuring a fluffy batter with minimal work.
• Bundt pan: The unique shape not only looks beautiful but also helps create even baking throughout the cake.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for organized preparation of dry and wet ingredients separately before combining them.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 3 ½ cups all purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 ½ sticks unsalted butter, at room temperature (20 Tablespoons, 1 ¼ cups)
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 4 eggs (at room temperature)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple cider

For the Glaze

• 2 cups apple cider
• 2 Tablespoons salted butter
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 Tablespoons demerara or turbinado sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 12-cup bundt pan with Baker’s Joy or another non-stick spray that includes flour.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. All-purpose flour
2. Baking powder
3. Salt
4. Cinnamon
5. Nutmeg

Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of your stand mixer, beat together:
1. Unsalted butter
2. Brown sugar
3. Granulated sugar

Mix on medium speed until the mixture is lighter in color and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Mixture

Gradually add the flour mixture in three parts while mixing on low speed until just incorporated. With the mixer running at its lowest speed, slowly add in one cup of apple cider until fully combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed well.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 40-50 minutes or until golden brown edges form. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Allow cooling for about 10 minutes before inverting onto a plate.

Step 7: Make the Glaze

While your cake bakes, pour two cups of apple cider into a small saucepan over high heat. Bring it to a boil then reduce heat to low boil for about 30 minutes or until thickened down to around one-third cup. Stir in salted butter until melted.

Step 8: Finish with Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar and cinnamon. While your cake is still warm, brush on the cider mixture all over its exterior. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar on top and press some onto the sides gently using your palm.

Serve this delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake warm or at room temperature!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serving your Apple Cider Donut Cake can elevate its delightful flavors and make for a memorable experience. Here are some creative suggestions to enhance your serving style.

Pair with Whipped Cream

• Adding a dollop of fresh whipped cream on top can provide a creamy texture that complements the spices in the cake.

Serve with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream alongside a slice of warm cake creates a comforting dessert perfect for fall gatherings.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness, making each bite indulgent and delicious.

Accompany with Hot Beverages

• Pair your cake slices with hot apple cider, coffee, or tea to create a cozy atmosphere, especially on chilly days.

Garnish with Fresh Apples

• Slices of fresh apples can add a refreshing crunch and visually enhance the presentation of your cake.

Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A light sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving gives your Apple Cider Donut Cake an elegant finish and enhances its sweetness.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring your eggs and butter to room temperature for better mixing and a fluffier texture.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into measuring cups and level off with a knife instead of scooping directly from the container to avoid dense cake.

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined when adding flour; overmixing can lead to a tough texture.

• Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the correct temperature for even baking.

• Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure and moistness.

• Store Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Donut Cake can enhance your meal experience. Here are some tasty options:

1. Spiced Apples: Sautéed apples tossed in cinnamon and nutmeg complement the flavors of the cake beautifully.

2. Cinnamon Roasted Nuts: A mix of almonds or walnuts roasted with cinnamon makes for a crunchy snack that pairs well with dessert.

3. Autumn Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and pecans provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet cake.

4. Butternut Squash Soup: This creamy soup offers warmth and richness that balances the sweetness of the dessert nicely.

5. Cheese Platter: Include some mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda alongside fruit preserves; they create an appealing flavor combination.

6. Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal drink is perfect for sipping while enjoying your slice of cake, enhancing those fall flavors.

7. Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots bring a lovely brightness to your meal while complementing the apple cider notes in the cake.

8. Gingerbread Cookies: These spiced cookies make a delightful addition, echoing similar flavor profiles and offering festive cheer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few missteps when baking the Apple Cider Donut Cake. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs and butter can lead to a dense cake. Always allow your eggs and butter to come to room temperature for a lighter texture.
• Boldly ignore measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can result in a dry cake. Use the spoon and level method for accurate measurements instead of scooping directly from the bag.
• Boldly overlook the mixing process: Overmixing the batter can lead to tough cake. Mix just until combined, stopping as soon as there are no flour streaks.
• Boldly underestimate baking time: Every oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
• Boldly forget about cooling: Cutting into the cake while it’s still warm can make it crumble. Let it cool for at least 10 minutes before inverting onto a plate.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep the cake away from strong odors as it can absorb them.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Can I use other types of cider?

Yes, any fruit cider will work well! Experiment with pear or berry ciders for unique flavors.

How do I ensure my Apple Cider Donut Cake is moist?

Make sure not to overbake and use fresh apple cider for added moisture.

Can I add nuts or fruit to this Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Absolutely! Chopped apples or walnuts can be folded into the batter for extra texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have a bundt pan?

You can use any standard cake pan; just adjust baking time as needed.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful blend of sweetness and spice that captures the essence of fall. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite mix-ins, making each bake unique. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of autumn bliss!