Introduction to Apple Cider Donut Cake
Fall has a magical way of transforming our surroundings and taste buds alike. As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, it's time to indulge in seasonal treats that capture the essence of autumn. Enter the Apple Cider Donut Cake, a delightful twist on your favorite fall flavors. This cake perfectly blends the rich essence of apple cider with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a comforting dessert that's as inviting as a cozy sweater on a chilly day.
Why Apple Cider Donut Cake is Perfect for Fall
Imagine walking through a local orchard, the scent of fresh apples surrounding you as you collect a basketful. Many of us cherish these autumnal experiences, and this cake encapsulates that spirit with every bite. The moist, tender crumb paired with a cinnamon-sugar topping is reminiscent of enjoying a fresh donut from a fall fair—without the frying! This cake bakes easily in a loaf pan, making it a perfect choice for gatherings or your weekend brunch.
Whether you're entertaining guests or simply treating yourself after a long day, this Apple Cider Donut Cake will surely become a favorite in your fall dessert repertoire. For those keen to recreate this seasonal delight, keep reading for the full recipe and bake your way into autumn!
Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Cake
When you're ready to whip up a delicious apple cider donut cake, knowing what ingredients you need is key. Below is a breakdown of what's essential for both the cake and its irresistible topping.
Essential ingredients for the cake
To create that moist, flavorful cake, gather the following ingredients:
- Fresh apple cider (1.5 cups) – reduces down to intensify the flavor.
- All-purpose flour (2.5 cups) – the backbone of your cake, helping it rise beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tablespoon) – adds warmth and spice.
- Fine sea salt (¾ teaspoon) – balances the sweetness.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon) and baking soda (½ teaspoon) – crucial for that perfect rise.
- Nutmeg (½ teaspoon) – to enhance those cozy fall flavors.
- Red apples (1-2) – grating them brings fresh apple goodness right into the cake.
- Vegetable oil (1 cup) – keeps the cake moist.
- Dark brown sugar (1 cup, packed) – adds depth and rich sweetness.
- Large eggs (2) – for binding and structure.
Ingredients for the cinnamon sugar topping
No cake is complete without a little indulgence! For the cinnamon sugar topping, you will need:
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup) – the sweet crunch that brings everything together.
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) – because you can never have too much of that comforting spice.
- Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons, melted) – allows the sugar to adhere perfectly to the cake.
With these ingredients, your apple cider donut cake will be a hit at any gathering! Curious about where to find some of these ingredients? Check out Amazon for easy online shopping. Happy baking!
Preparing the Apple Cider Donut Cake
Creating an apple cider donut cake is a delightful process that calls for a few simple steps and some scrumptious ingredients. This cake is a perfect fall treat, reminiscent of cozy visits to the apple orchard and changing leaves. Ready to dive in? Let’s make magic happen in the kitchen!
Reduce the apple cider
First things first, let’s concentrate that apple flavor! You’ll start by pouring 1 ½ cups of fresh apple cider into a medium pot. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat and let it simmer. Your goal is to reduce the cider by half until you have about ¾ cup left. This concentrated liquid is going to give your cake that rich, apple-infused essence. Once reduced, set it aside to cool slightly—you want it to be warm but not hot when you use it.
Preheat the oven and prepare the loaf pan
While your cider is cooling, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9x5 loaf pan lightly (to ensure easy cake removal later) and line the bottom with parchment paper. This step is crucial for a clean finish; nobody wants a delicious cake that sticks!
Mix the dry ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, ¾ teaspoon of fine sea salt, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg. This aromatic mix is the foundation of your apple cider donut cake and will create that delightful crumb you’re after.
Grate the apples
Now for the fun part: the apples! Grab 1-2 red apples, depending on their size, and using the large holes of a cheese grater, grate them into a bowl. Squeeze out any excess juice, ensuring you measure 1 cup of grated apples. This fresh addition will add moisture and a burst of flavor to your cake.
Combine the wet ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 1 cup of vegetable oil, 1 cup of packed dark brown sugar, and 2 large eggs (at room temperature). Add the prepared grated apples and your reduced apple cider, mixing well. The combination of these rich ingredients will make your cake wonderfully tender.
Combine wet and dry ingredients
Now, it’s time to merge the wet and dry mixtures! Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will help to keep the texture perfect.
Add the batter to the loaf pan
Once your batter is ready, pour it into the prepared loaf pan. To enhance the taste, in a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, then sprinkle half of this mixture over the top of your batter. It’ll create a delightful cinnamon crust while baking.
Bake and cool the cake
Bake your apple cider donut cake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with a few moist crumbs. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Lift it out using the parchment paper for further cooling on a wire rack. Finally, brush the remaining melted butter over the cooled cake and cover it with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture. Slice, serve, and enjoy those autumn vibes!
Now that you’ve navigated the steps, you can indulge in a piece that reminds you of those crispy cider donuts—without the mess of frying! Enjoy every crumb.
Variations on Apple Cider Donut Cake
Add-ins for Extra Flavor
Looking to elevate your apple cider donut cake? Consider adding in ingredients like chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. Dried cranberries or raisins can introduce a touch of sweetness, while a dash of vanilla extract can round out the flavors beautifully. For more spice, try incorporating a pinch of cardamom or a splash of maple syrup for a seasonal twist.
Alternative Toppings for a Twist
While the classic cinnamon sugar topping is a fan favorite, you can switch it up! Drizzling with a simple maple glaze adds a sweet, sticky finish. For a more indulgent touch, whipped cream or cream cheese frosting can give you that bakery-style delight. Feeling adventurous? Top with crumbled caramel pieces or even a sprinkle of sea salt to create a savory-sweet contrast. Explore these variations and make this cake uniquely yours!
Cooking tips and notes for Apple Cider Donut Cake
Measuring tips for accuracy
Getting your measurements right is key to crafting the perfect apple cider donut cake. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for flour. If you’re using cups, spoon the flour into the measuring cup without packing it down and level it off with a knife. For the best results, check out this guide on accurate measuring.
How to ensure a moist cake
To keep your apple cider donut cake moist, make sure your eggs are at room temperature to help them blend smoothly. Additionally, focus on not overmixing the batter—stir just until combined. You can also incorporate a bit of plain yogurt or sour cream for extra moisture while maintaining that fantastic flavor. Remember, letting the cake cool completely before adding the topping will help lock in that moistness!
Serving Suggestions for Apple Cider Donut Cake
Pairing Ideas with Drinks
Enjoy your apple cider donut cake with a warm cup of spiced chai or a rich coffee latte to enhance its cozy flavors. For something refreshing, consider matching it with a glass of cold apple cider or a homemade sugar-free lemonade. These drinks bring out the cake's sweet and cinnamon notes, making each bite more enjoyable.
Creative Serving Temperatures
This delightful cake can be savored in various ways! While it’s delicious at room temperature, try warming up a slice in the microwave for a few seconds to enhance its aroma. Alternatively, serve it slightly chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fun texture contrast—perfect for a casual gathering. Explore more ideas on serving and enjoying desserts here.
Time Breakdown for Apple Cider Donut Cake
Preparation Time
Get ready to dive into some deliciousness! The preparation for your apple cider donut cake takes about 20 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, grating the apples, and mixing the batter. Keep it efficient, and you'll be savoring the sweet aroma in no time.
Baking Time
Now comes the exciting part! You’ll need to bake the cake for 50-60 minutes at 350°F (180°C). The anticipation will build as your kitchen fills with the comforting scent of fall.
Total Time
All in all, you’re looking at around 1 hour 20 minutes from start to finish. That includes prep and baking time. Trust us, this apple cider donut cake is worth every moment as it transforms your home into a haven of seasonal flavors.
For more tips and tricks on creating the perfect apple cider donut cake, check out this guide on apple varieties so you can choose the best apples to elevate your dessert!
Nutritional Facts for Apple Cider Donut Cake
Calories
The delectable apple cider donut cake provides approximately 320 calories per slice. Whether enjoying it with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack, it's a cozy indulgence that’s hard to resist.
Protein
Each slice of this perfect fall treat contains about 3 grams of protein. While it’s not a powerhouse of protein, pairing it with a dollop of Greek yogurt can boost its nutritional profile, making it an even more satisfying option.
Sugar Content
With around 22 grams of sugar per slice, the sweetness comes from the dark brown sugar and cinnamon topping. It’s worth savoring in moderation, especially on crisp autumn days, when it pairs beautifully with the seasonal flavors. For a lower sugar version, consider reducing the sugar quantity in the cake batter or topping.
FAQs about Apple Cider Donut Cake
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with various apple varieties to find your perfect flavor profile. Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Fuji apples work particularly well due to their sweet and tart balance. Each type will lend a different taste and texture to your apple cider donut cake, so get creative!
How do I store leftover cake?
To keep your apple cider donut cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to maintain its flavor and moisture longer, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. However, for the best taste, enjoy it within a few days!
Is it possible to freeze this cake?
Yes, indeed! If you’d like to save some for later, you can freeze the apple cider donut cake. Just make sure it's fully cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay fresh for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Conclusion on Apple Cider Donut Cake
There's just something magical about apple cider donut cake. It combines the nostalgic flavors of fall with the comfort of a homemade treat. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to impress. Enjoy every slice while making delicious memories!
If you’re looking for more inspiration, check out related recipes for seasonal desserts or baking tips from established culinary sources, like Serious Eats or The Kitchn.
Apple Cider Donut Cake
Equipment
- 9×5 loaf pan
Ingredients
Apple Cider Cake
- 1.5 cups fresh apple cider reduced to ¾ cup
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour See notes for measuring
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 0.75 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1-2 large red apples grated, size depending
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup dark brown sugar packed
- 2 large eggs room temperature
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 0.25 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
Instructions
Instructions
- Cook the apple cider in a pot over medium heat until reduced to half, about ¾ cup, then set aside.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Lightly grease and line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, salt, baking powder, baking soda, and nutmeg.
- Grate 1-2 red apples into a bowl. Squeeze out the juice, then measure 1 cup of grated apples.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil, brown sugar, eggs, grated apples, and reduced apple cider. Whisk in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Combine granulated sugar and cinnamon, sprinkle two tablespoons over the top, and bake for 50-60 minutes.
- Let the pan cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes, then remove from the pan and cool completely. Brush melted butter over the sides and cover with the remaining cinnamon sugar. Cut into slices and enjoy!
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