Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn with its rich flavors and moist texture. This cake is perfect for various occasions, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. With its apple cider glaze and a topping of cinnamon sugar, it stands out as a delicious dessert that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The straightforward instructions make this cake a breeze for bakers of all levels.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual afternoon snack, this cake fits right in.
• Moist and Flavorful: The combination of apple cider and applesauce ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
• Customizable Topping: Adjust the amount of cinnamon sugar based on your personal preference for an extra touch of sweetness.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Bundt pan
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Toothpick

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients evenly to achieve a smooth batter.
• Bundt pan: Its unique shape not only creates an attractive presentation but also helps in even baking.
• Whisk or electric mixer: A whisk is great for manual mixing, while an electric mixer saves time and effort when beating ingredients together.

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Ingredients

Our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is flavorful and moist with an apple cider glaze and cinnamon sugar to top it off.

For the Cake

• 1 15.25 ounce box Yellow cake mix or Spice Cake Mix
• 1 cup apple cider (NOT apple juice and NOT apple cider vinegar)
• ½ cup apple sauce (we used cinnamon apple sauce, not chunky)
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• ¼ tsp cinnamon (more if you like it really cinnamony!)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla

For the Topping

• 2 tablespoons cinnamon (depending on how much cinnamon you prefer)
• ¼ cup sugar
• ¼ cup melted butter

How to Make Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the dry cake mix, apple cider, apple sauce, and eggs until well combined.
2. Add in the cinnamon (¼ tsp), brown sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured bundt pan.
2. Place the bundt pan on the center rack of your preheated oven.
3. Bake for 40-45 minutes. Use a toothpick to test doneness; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.

Step 4: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove from heat and let cool on a wire rack for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Make Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

In a separate bowl:
1. Combine cinnamon with sugar to create your topping.

Step 6: Finish with Glaze

Once cooled:
1. Brush the entire surface of the cake with melted butter.
2. Rub the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top until evenly coated.

Enjoy your deliciously moist Apple Cider Doughnut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Serving your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can elevate its flavor and presentation. Consider these delightful options to enhance your dessert experience.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the spiced cake.
• Try cinnamon or caramel ice cream for an extra flavor twist.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A warm caramel drizzle adds a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the apple cider flavors.
• Use store-bought or homemade caramel for convenience.

Accompanied by Fresh Apples

• Sliced fresh apples offer a crunchy counterpoint to the moist cake.
• Pair with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added taste.

Served with Whipped Cream

• Light, fluffy whipped cream adds a delicious creaminess.
• Consider flavored whipped creams like maple or vanilla for variety.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

To achieve the best version of your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and apple sauce to room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake. A few lumps are okay.
• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
• Cool Completely Before Coating: Allowing the cake to cool ensures that the cinnamon sugar adheres well without melting away.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add nutmeg or allspice along with cinnamon for more depth in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can create a balanced meal or festive gathering. Here are some excellent suggestions.

1. Spiced Hot Cider: Warm apple cider infused with spices makes a comforting drink that complements the cake beautifully.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and contrast in flavor.
3. Cheese Platter: Include mild cheeses like brie or gouda for a savory balance against the sweetness of the cake.
4. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of creamy pumpkin soup provides warmth and complementing flavors during fall.
5. Chocolate Fondue: Dip pieces of cake in chocolate fondue for an indulgent treat that satisfies sweet cravings.
6. Roasted Nuts: A variety of roasted nuts offers crunch and depth alongside your dessert, making it enjoyable as a snack option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, it’s easy to encounter a few common issues that can impact the final result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong type of apple cider: Make sure to use real apple cider, not apple juice or vinegar. This ensures the cake has the right flavor profile.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Always bring your eggs and applesauce to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture in your cake.
• Not greasing the bundt pan properly: A well-greased and floured bundt pan is crucial for preventing sticking. Consider using a non-stick spray with flour for best results.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The cake can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
• You can freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place wrapped slices on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make it dry.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, check out these frequently asked questions:

Can I substitute apple cider with something else?

You should stick with apple cider for the best flavor. However, if needed, you can try using apple juice, but it will alter the taste somewhat.

How do I make my Apple Cider Doughnut Cake more cinnamon-flavored?

Simply increase the amount of cinnamon in both the batter and topping according to your preferences.

Can I use gluten-free cake mix?

Yes! You can substitute with gluten-free cake mix instead of regular cake mix for a gluten-free version of Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.

How long does it take to bake this cake?

The baking time is approximately 40-45 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Always check with a toothpick!

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With its moist texture and sweet glaze, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with flavors or toppings to make this recipe your own! Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!