Oh my goodness, have I got a treat for you today! If you’re anything like me, you have a special place in your heart (and your stomach) for autumn flavors. One of my absolute favorite desserts that brings on all the cozy vibes is none other than Apple Cider Donut Cake.
The first time I made this masterpiece, the smell of warm apples and spices wafting through my kitchen reminded me of those crisp fall days when my family would head to the orchard for apple picking. The joy of indulging in warm cider donuts while walking through the rows of trees is just irreplaceable. Now, I bring a slice of that nostalgia to my kitchen thanks to this easy and delicious cake recipe! Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
What’s in Apple Cider Donut Cake?
Let’s break down some of the key ingredients that make this cake so delightful:
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of any cake. It gives the cake structure and a nice crumb. I usually go for unbleached flour, but any all-purpose flour will do!
Apple Cider: The star ingredient of this cake! Fresh apple cider will provide the best flavor, but if you can’t find it, store-bought is just fine too. Reducing it on the stove intensifies that apple flavor, making every bite taste like a hug!
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create that beautiful golden crust on the cake.
Brown Sugar: The molasses in brown sugar contributes moisture and a rich caramel flavor—definitely a must-have!
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter is key for that perfect creamy mixture. I always use unsalted for better control over the cake’s saltiness.
Eggs: These bind the ingredients together and give the cake its fluffy texture.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leaveners work together to give the cake height and fluffiness.
Ground Cinnamon: A classic fall flavor that adds warmth and makes your kitchen smell like heaven.
Ground Nutmeg: Just a hint of nutmeg takes the flavor profile to a whole new level.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Vanilla Extract: Because who doesn’t love a little vanilla? It rounds out the flavor beautifully.
Cinnamon-Sugar Coating: This is the finishing touch! A mix of cinnamon and sugar that you brush on after baking for that irresistible donut effect.
Is Apple Cider Donut Cake Good for You?
Let’s be real, this isn’t a health food, but it does have some redeeming qualities.
Apple Cider: You get a dose of antioxidants with every slice, and let’s not forget about the warmth it brings to your soul! Just keep an eye on the portion sizes since it does have sugars.
Spices: Both cinnamon and nutmeg have potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and assisting with blood sugar management!
However, it’s best enjoyed as a treat. You know the saying: everything in moderation! Pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce really takes it over the top!
Ingredients List
This recipe makes about 12 generous servings. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup apple cider (preferably fresh)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake?
Now that you’ve got all the ingredients ready, let’s get baking!
1. **Preheat your oven** to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan. Trust me, you want it to come out clean!
2. **In a medium saucepan**, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, reducing it to about 1/2 cup (this takes about 15-20 minutes). Let it cool.
3. **In a large mixing bowl**, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Beat in the eggs** one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in that heavenly vanilla extract!
5. **In another bowl**, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
6. **Gradually add the dry ingredients** to the wet mixture, alternating with the reduced apple cider. Remember to start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until all is incorporated.
7. **Pour the batter** into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
8. **Bake** in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. **While the cake is baking**, mix the 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon together in a small bowl for the coating.
10. **Once the cake is baked**, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then carefully remove it and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack.
11. Once cooled, **brush the cake** with melted butter and sprinkle that delicious cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top while it’s still slightly warm.
Sweet Tips for a Perfect Cake!
– This cake is best served fresh, but if you have leftovers (which is rare!), store it in an airtight container for a few days.
– For an extra indulgent treat, serve it warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pure bliss!
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding chopped apples or even a splash of bourbon to the batter!
I can’t wait for you to try this Apple Cider Donut Cake! I promise it will become a beloved recipe in your home, just like it is in mine. Enjoy every warm slice and let me know how it goes! Happy baking, my friends!
