Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is the perfect treat for any occasion, offering a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors. This moist cake is topped with a luscious apple cider glaze and coated in cinnamon sugar, making it a great dessert for gatherings, holidays, or simply enjoying at home. Its unique flavor profile and easy preparation make it a standout among cake recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this cake comes together quickly.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider and cinnamon delivers a warm, comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s brunch, dessert after dinner, or a casual get-together.
• Moist Texture: The addition of applesauce ensures that the cake stays moist and tender throughout.
• Kid-Friendly: A treat that both kids and adults will enjoy, making it great for family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking this delicious cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt pan
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Electric mixer (or whisk)
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: This unique shape not only makes for an attractive presentation but also allows for even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly to ensure uniform texture and flavor.
• Electric mixer: Makes mixing quick and easy, particularly when incorporating wet ingredients with dry cake mix.

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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 that your cake bakes evenly from the start.

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. 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 oven.
3. Bake for 40–45 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
4. Remove from heat and let cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Make Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the cake cools:
1. In a separate bowl, mix together the remaining sugar with cinnamon.

Step 5: Finish the Cake

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

Enjoy your delightful Apple Cider Doughnut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Serving your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can elevate its delightful flavors and create a memorable experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dessert presentation.

Pair with Coffee

• Pairing your cake with a warm cup of coffee creates a comforting combination perfect for any time of day.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side adds a rich contrast to the spiced cake and enhances the flavor.

Top with Whipped Cream

• Lightly dolloping whipped cream on each slice provides a fluffy texture that balances the dense cake beautifully.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness, making it even more indulgent.

Garnish with Fresh Apples

• Thin slices of fresh apples placed on top can add a refreshing crunch and complement the apple cider flavor.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

To make sure your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensuring your eggs and apple sauce are at room temperature helps create a smoother batter and contributes to an even bake.

• Grease the Bundt Pan Well: Properly greasing and flouring your bundt pan is crucial to prevent sticking, ensuring a beautiful cake release.

• Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to a dense texture. Stir just until combined for a light and airy cake.

• Check for Doneness Early: Start checking the cake around 40 minutes. Every oven is different, so look for a clean toothpick test.

• Cool Completely Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool completely prevents it from falling apart when you cut it.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delightful options to consider:

1. Spiced Chai Tea: This warm beverage complements the cinnamon flavors in the cake.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a light contrast to the richness of the cake.
3. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well with sweet desserts, enhancing their flavors.
4. Pumpkin Soup: A bowl of creamy pumpkin soup serves as a cozy starter before enjoying your cake.
5. Cinnamon Roll Muffins: These muffins echo the spices in the doughnut cake while offering another layer of texture.
6. Apple Crisp: Another apple-based dessert that brings warmth and familiarity to your table, perfect alongside the doughnut cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, and avoiding common mistakes is key to making the perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.

• Using the wrong type of cider: Always use apple cider, not apple juice or vinegar. The flavor will be different and impact the overall taste.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until ingredients are combined for a lighter cake. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Not greasing the bundt pan properly: Ensure your bundt pan is well-greased and floured to prevent sticking. This ensures a smooth release after baking.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allow the cake to cool for at least 20 minutes before removing it from the pan. This helps maintain its shape.
• Ignoring personal taste preferences: Adjust spices like cinnamon according to your preference. Experiment for a flavor that suits you best.

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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 tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet on low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes! You can substitute yellow cake mix with spice cake mix for extra flavor.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Both nuts and chocolate chips make great additions to enhance flavor and texture.

What should I serve with Apple Cider Doughnut Cake?

This delicious cake pairs well with coffee, tea, or even vanilla ice cream!

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delightful treat that combines moistness with sweet apple flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe offers versatility in customization—try adding your favorite spices or toppings! Don’t hesitate to give it a try; it’s sure to impress!