The aroma of spiced apples and warm cinnamon is a memory that often comes rushing back during the crisp days of fall. As leaves turn and the air grows cooler, nothing seems more comforting than a slice of my Cozy Apple Cider Donut Cake. This delightful bundt cake seamlessly brings together the tangy richness of apple cider and an irresistible sweet glaze, creating a mouthwatering tribute to those cherished autumn moments. Not only is this Apple Cider Cake quick and straightforward to whip up, but it also transforms any gathering into a cozy celebration. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or savored alongside your favorite hot drink, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. What’s your favorite way to embrace the flavors of fall?
Why is this Apple Cider Cake special?
Comforting Flavor: This Apple Cider Donut Cake captures the essence of fall with its rich apple cider flavor, evoking memories of orchard visits.
Easy to Make: The simple instructions and everyday ingredients make this cake a breeze to whip up, even for beginner bakers.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether topped with ice cream, served plain, or enjoyed with a warm drink, it fits every occasion beautifully. Perfect for cozy gatherings, it pairs wonderfully with a mug of hot cider or alongside some Coffee Cake Muffins.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its moist texture and sweet glaze ensure everyone at your gathering will be coming back for seconds!
Make Ahead: This cake freezes beautifully, allowing you to prepare in advance and enjoy its deliciousness on demand, just like the delightful Apple Brownies Chewy that are also great for sharing!
Apple Cider Cake Ingredients
• Get ready to bake your heart out with this Apple Cider Cake!
For the Cake
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with gluten-free flour for a lighter option.
- Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise beautifully.
- Salt – A pinch enhances the flavor of the cake.
- Cinnamon – Adds a warm, cozy spice that captures the essence of fall.
- Nutmeg – Contributes a subtle depth of flavor, reminiscent of autumn spices.
- Unsalted Butter – Ensures moisture and richness; margarine can be used for a dairy-free alternative.
- Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; for a twist, replace half with coconut sugar.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens your cake perfectly; consider a sugar alternative for a healthier option.
- Eggs – Bind the ingredients for a fluffy texture, or opt for flax eggs for vegan-friendly goodness.
- Vanilla Extract – Boosts the overall flavor, creating a delightful cake experience.
- Apple Cider – The star ingredient that infuses the cake with tangy richness; fresh cider gives the best flavor.
For the Glaze
- Salted Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the glaze; you can use unsalted and a pinch of salt if needed.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the glaze for that lovely drizzle.
- Demerara/Turbinado Sugar – Offers a delightful crunch; regular sugar will work just fine as well.
- Cinnamon (for the coating) – Complements the cake’s flavor beautifully, making each bite delightful.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re one step closer to creating an unforgettable Apple Cider Cake that will have everyone asking for your recipe!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cozy Apple Cider Donut Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, generously spray a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray, ensuring that every crevice is well coated. This will help your Apple Cider Cake release smoothly after baking, giving you that perfect bundt shape.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg. These dry ingredients create a flavorful base for the cake, so whisk until well combined. Set the bowl aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer, combine ½ cup of unsalted butter, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes, or until it becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a moist Apple Cider Cake, so ensure the butter and sugars are fully incorporated.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add your eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Continue mixing until the batter is smooth and well blended, allowing the flavors to marry beautifully before moving on to the dry ingredients.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until combined. Slowly pour in 1 cup of fresh apple cider, ensuring the batter remains smooth. Avoid over-mixing; a few flour specks are fine. This step wraps the essence of fall tightly into your Apple Cider Cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. As it bakes, enjoy the wonderful aroma wafting through your kitchen—this is where the magic begins!
Step 7: Prepare the Cider Glaze
While the cake is in the oven, pour ½ cup of apple cider into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to reduce for about 10 minutes, or until thickened slightly. Once removed from the heat, stir in 2 tablespoons of salted butter until melted for a rich glaze.
Step 8: Glaze and Serve
Once the cake is done, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack. Brush the warm Apple Cider Cake with the cider glaze using a pastry brush and generously sprinkle with a mixture of ¼ cup granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Serve warm, and enjoy every cozy bite!
Make Ahead Options
These Cozy Apple Cider Donut Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing it and storing it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain its freshness and prevent any potential browning. You can also bake the cake up to 3 days ahead, allowing it to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap and storing it at room temperature. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat slices briefly in the microwave for that freshly-baked taste and drizzle with the cider glaze. With these make-ahead options, you can enjoy delightful apple cider goodness with minimal effort on those busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Apple Cider Donut Cake
Delight in a warm, cozy gathering with delicious pairings that enhance every bite of your cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla contrasts perfectly with the warm spiced cake, creating a delightful treat. Serve the ice cream on top, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm cake.
- Hot Apple Cider: The flavor of spiced apple cider reinforces the cake’s notes, making it the ultimate comforting drink for a crisp autumn evening. Enjoy it in a mug with a cinnamon stick for an added touch!
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds an indulgent touch. Top each slice with a dollop for a fresh, sweet contrast to the cake’s flavors.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice adds richness and an extra layer of sweetness that ties beautifully with the apple cider. It’s a heavenly addition that will have your guests raving!
- Coffee: A bold cup of coffee balances the sweetness of the cake, making it a wonderful afternoon treat. The warmth of the coffee enhances the rich flavors of the apple cider, creating a perfect pairing.
- Spiced Nuts: Crunchy, spiced nuts add texture and a savory note that beautifully contrasts the sweetness. Serve them alongside for guests who enjoy a bit of something nutty with their dessert.
- Cheddar Cheese: A slice of sharp cheddar provides a delightful balance with the cake’s sweetness. The tanginess of the cheese enhances the flavors, making this an unexpected yet surprisingly delightful pairing.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: For a seasonal twist, serve your cake with a warm pumpkin spice latte. The sweet and spiced notes complement the flavors of the cake, making for a quintessential fall experience.
- Candied Apples: As a festive dessert option, serve candied apples on the side for a fun and crunchy treat that echoes the apple theme. Their sweetness and chewiness will make your gathering even more memorable!
- Chocolate Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination of these bite-sized treats offers a delightful balance to the sweetness of the cake. They’re perfect for those who love a mix of flavors!
Apple Cider Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize this delightful cake to match your taste and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to enjoy the same comforting texture without gluten.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or dairy-free margarine instead of butter for a rich and creamy cake everyone can enjoy.
- Sweetness Swap: Replace half of the granulated sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness that enhances the flavor.
- Extra Fruit: Incorporate chopped fresh apples or pears into the batter for a delicious fruity twist that adds moisture and flavor.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or a sprinkle of allspice to deepen the warm, cozy autumn flavors, making every bite even more memorable.
For a delightful dessert pairing, why not serve a slice alongside some scrumptious Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Bars? Your guests will be raving!
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: After glazing, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar or even some crushed pecans to add a crunchy, sweet finishing touch that everyone will love.
- Decadent Chocolate: Drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze for a sweet balance that softens the tang of the apple cider while pleasing chocolate lovers.
No matter which variation you choose, this Apple Cider Cake will charm your gatherings and uplift your fall festivities!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Cake
Room Temperature: Store the Apple Cider Cake wrapped in foil or plastic at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain its moist texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you’d like to extend its freshness, store in the fridge wrapped tightly, where it can last up to 7 days. Remember to let it sit at room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unglazed cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge overnight before glazing.
Reheating: To enjoy your cake warm, simply microwave individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until heated through, enhancing those comforting flavors.
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cake
- Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature; they blend better into the batter, creating a fluffy texture for your Apple Cider Cake.
- Mix Gently: Avoid over-mixing the batter once the dry ingredients are added. This helps maintain a light, airy cake that everyone will love.
- Cool Before Inverting: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before inverting it onto a wire rack to prevent breakage.
- Perfect Glaze Timing: Brush the warm cider glaze on the cake right after inverting it. This ensures the glaze seeps in, adding extra moisture and sweetness.
- Wrapping for Freshness: Store any leftovers wrapped in foil or plastic at room temperature. Reheating in the microwave revives its delicious flavor for days!
Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best apple cider for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor in your Apple Cider Cake, I recommend using fresh, unfiltered apple cider. Look for cider that is clear and free from dark spots. The fresher the cider, the richer the flavor, enhancing the overall deliciousness of your cake!
What’s the best way to store leftover Apple Cider Cake?
Store your cake wrapped in foil or plastic at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor. If you’d like to enjoy it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week, but always bring it back to room temperature before serving for that fresh-baked taste!
Can I freeze the Apple Cider Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the unglazed cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and glaze it afterwards.
Why is my Apple Cider Cake dense?
Very! If your cake turns out denser than expected, it might be due to over-mixing the batter after adding the flour. Remember, a few flour streaks are perfectly fine! Additionally, ensure that your baking powder is fresh, as this is crucial for achieving that light, fluffy texture.
Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can make smart substitutions such as using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free cake or swapping eggs for flax eggs if you’re following a vegan diet. Just remember, these changes may slightly alter the texture and taste, but it will still be delicious!
How do I know when my Apple Cider Cake is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready! Baking times can vary based on the oven, but generally, it should take about 40-50 minutes at 350°F. Don’t rush, enjoy the delightful aromas while you wait!
Delightful Apple Cider Cake for Cozy Autumn Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a bundt pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a stand mixer, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet, adding apple cider. Do not over-mix.
- Pour batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 40-50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Simmer apple cider in a saucepan for 10 minutes to reduce, then stir in butter for the glaze.
- Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack.
- Brush with cider glaze and sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon mixture. Serve warm.
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