Apple Cider Donut Cake with Cinnamon Sugar
There’s something about the fall season that makes me want to fill my kitchen with the tantalizing aromas of apples and cinnamon. It’s like a hug in dessert form, and one of my all-time favorites is this delightful **Apple Cider Donut Cake with Cinnamon Sugar**! This cake is an amalgamation of two beloved treats: the classic apple cider donut and a moist, sumptuous cake. A match made in heaven, if you ask me!
I vividly remember the first time I made this cake—it was for a cozy autumn gathering with friends. The leaves were falling outside, and I wanted something that captured the essence of fall. The moment I pulled it out of the oven, the warm scent of cinnamon wafted through my home, and I knew I’d created something special. Let me tell you, it did not last long! Everyone was begging for seconds, and as they devoured each slice, I was already planning my next baking session.
What’s in Apple Cider Donut Cake with Cinnamon Sugar?
– 2 cups apple cider: The superstar of the show! It adds a rich, sweet flavor that brings this cake to life. (I use freshly pressed cider when I can find it for an extra burst of flavor!)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of our cake, giving it just the right structure.
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: A leavening agent that helps the cake rise.
– 1 teaspoon baking soda: It works hand-in-hand with the baking powder for that lovely fluffiness.
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Because what’s a “cider” cake without cinnamon? It brings warmth and that delightful cozy flavor.
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A pinch of this spices things up a bit and perfectly complements the apple taste!
– ½ teaspoon salt: A pinch of salt enhances all those delicious flavors.
– ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens things up just right!
– ¾ cup brown sugar, packed: This adds moisture and a bit of caramel depth.
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Richness! It makes the cake tender and offers that buttery goodness.
– 2 large eggs: Bind everything together while adding some richness.
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A classic flavor enhancer that makes everything better!
– ¼ cup milk: For moisture and tenderness in the cake.
– Cinnamon sugar (for coating):
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Mix these together to create a sweet, fragrant topping that adds that final touch!
Is Apple Cider Donut Cake Good for You?
Let’s talk turkey (or should I say, cake?!)—while this Apple Cider Donut Cake is indeed a treat, it also brings some benefits to the table. The primary ingredient, apple cider, is packed with antioxidants and could promote heart health. Plus, it’s a delightful way to enjoy fresh apples during the harvest season!
However, keep in mind it does include sugars and fats. If you’re watching your sugar intake, you might want to save this for special occasions or consider reducing the overall sugar in the recipe. Unsalted butter keeps things creamy and rich, but if you’re looking for plant-based options, feel free to swap it with a dairy-free butter alternative!
Ingredients
– 2 cups apple cider
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ¾ cup granulated sugar
– ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ¼ cup milk
– Cinnamon sugar for coating:
– ½ cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan so your cake can slide out easily after baking.
2. Grab a saucepan and bring the apple cider to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer until it’s reduced to about 1 cup, which should take around 15-20 minutes. Set this festive liquid aside to cool!
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This is our dry mix.
4. In another bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until it’s light and fluffy. (Seriously, don’t skimp on this step; fluffiness is key!)
5. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the reduced apple cider and milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Be careful not to over-mix; we want it just combined!
7. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack.
10. While it’s still warm, sprinkle that irresistible cinnamon sugar all over the top and sides of the cake!
Cozy Up with Some Cake!
– Serve this cake warm or at room temperature, and trust me when I say it pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea.
– Store any leftovers in an airtight container for several days (if you have any left, that is!). You can even reheat individual slices in the microwave to enjoy that fresh, warm flavor all over again.
I can’t wait for you to try this delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake! I promise it will fill your home with warmth and happiness. Let me know how your baking adventure goes—I’d love to hear about your experience and see your creations! Happy baking!
