Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. This cake combines the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon into a moist, sweet dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a brunch, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake stands out with its apple cider glaze and cinnamon sugar coating. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how quickly it disappears!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting taste that everyone adores.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve great results.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for gatherings or as a weekday treat, this cake is sure to impress at any event.
• Moist Texture: The addition of apple sauce ensures the cake remains moist and tender throughout.
• Fun Presentation: The bundt shape makes for an attractive centerpiece on any dessert table.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, you’ll need some essential tools for the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: This unique shape allows for even baking and a beautiful presentation when serving.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in organizing your ingredients efficiently while mixing.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Ensures that your batter is well blended, resulting in a light and fluffy cake.

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 that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Mix 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 into the batter mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Pan

Pour the batter into a well-greased bundt pan. You can use Baker’s Joy spray for easy release after baking.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Place the bundt pan on the center rack of your preheated oven:
1. Bake for 40-45 minutes.
2. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.

Step 5: Cool Down

Remove from heat and allow to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes on a wire rack before flipping it out onto the rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a separate bowl:
1. Combine cinnamon with sugar.

Step 7: Finish with Topping

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

Enjoy your deliciously moist Apple Cider Doughnut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Serving Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delightful experience, as it pairs beautifully with various accompaniments. Here are some fun and tasty ways to enjoy this moist cake.

With Coffee

• A warm slice of Apple Cider Doughnut Cake complements a fresh cup of coffee perfectly, enhancing its flavors.

Top with Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast that adds richness and indulgence.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve with vanilla or caramel ice cream for an exciting temperature contrast and extra sweetness.

Fresh Fruit Garnish

• Slice up seasonal fruits like apples or pears to add freshness and balance the sweetness of the cake.

Drizzle of Caramel Sauce

• A light drizzle of caramel sauce creates an inviting look and adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs well with the spices in the cake.

Afternoon Tea Treat

• Cut into smaller pieces for a delightful afternoon tea treat, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

To achieve the best results with your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your cake is both flavorful and visually appealing.

• Use fresh apple cider: Opt for high-quality apple cider instead of juice for richer flavor.
• Room temperature eggs: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature to promote better mixing and texture.
• Grease the pan well: Prevent sticking by thoroughly greasing your bundt pan; this helps in easy removal after baking.
• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Cool completely before glazing: Let the cake cool completely before applying glaze or toppings to prevent melting.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon level or add nutmeg for a personalized flavor twist.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors well.

1. Cinnamon Apples
   Cook sliced apples with cinnamon and sugar for a warm, spiced side that matches beautifully.

2. Vanilla Yogurt
   A bowl of creamy vanilla yogurt adds a tangy contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake.

3. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted spiced nuts provide crunch and complexity, enhancing the overall flavor profile when enjoyed together.

4. Caramelized Pears
   Sweet caramelized pears offer a soft texture and rich sweetness that pairs nicely with the doughnut cake’s spices.

5. Pumpkin Soup
   A smooth pumpkin soup can serve as a comforting appetizer that sets up for dessert beautifully.

6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of mild cheeses can create an interesting savory-sweet combination, making it an ideal complement.

7. Chai Latte
   This spiced tea beverage enhances the warmth of flavors in the cake while offering a cozy drink option alongside dessert.

8. Herb Salad
   A light herb salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette provides refreshing acidity that cuts through the richness of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing Apple Cider Doughnut Cake that can affect the final result. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong type of cider: Ensure you use apple cider, not apple juice or vinegar. Using the correct ingredient enhances the flavor and moisture of your cake.
• Skipping room temperature eggs: Cold eggs can lead to uneven mixing. Always use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can create a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not greasing the bundt pan properly: A poorly greased pan can cause sticking. Use a non-stick spray or butter with flour for easy release.
• Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Start checking your cake at 40 minutes, but be prepared to adjust time based on your oven’s performance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• The Apple Cider Doughnut Cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, then wrap the cake in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.

How do I make my Apple Cider Doughnut Cake more flavorful?

Adding extra spices like nutmeg or using spiced apple sauce can enhance flavor. Feel free to experiment with different spices!

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes! You can substitute yellow cake mix with spice cake mix if you prefer a more robust flavor in your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.

How can I customize my Apple Cider Doughnut Cake?

Consider adding nuts or raisins to the batter, or top it with a cream cheese glaze instead of cinnamon sugar for variety.

What should I serve with my Apple Cider Doughnut Cake?

It pairs well with coffee or tea and makes a delightful dessert or breakfast option alongside fresh fruit or yogurt.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is both delicious and versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture and spiced flavor, this cake is sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to customize it based on your preferences; add nuts, different spices, or glazes to make it uniquely yours!