Apple Cider Donut Cake

$For a delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake, you need these key ingredients: - 2 cups apple cider - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup whole wheat flour - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg - ½ teaspoon salt - 1 cup brown sugar, packed - ½ cup granulated sugar - ½ cup unsalted butter, softened - 3 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1 cup grated apples (about 2 small apples) - ½ cup buttermilk These ingredients create a rich flavor and tender texture. The apple cider gives the cake a warm, fruity taste. You can enhance your cake with these optional ingredients: - Powdered sugar for dusting Dusting the cake with powdered sugar adds a sweet touch. It also makes the cake look fancy and inviting. Choosing the right apples is key to a great cake. Here are some tips: - Select sweet apples: Varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji work well. - Check for firmness: Choose apples that feel firm and crisp. - Look for fresh apples: Fresh apples have better flavor and texture. Using the right apples makes a big difference. They add natural sweetness and moisture to your cake. Start by pouring 2 cups of apple cider into a saucepan. Place it on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat. Let it simmer. You want it to reduce to about 1 cup. This should take around 15 to 20 minutes. Once done, set it aside to cool. Grab a medium bowl. In it, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This mix will add flavor and help the cake rise. Set this bowl aside for now. In a large mixing bowl, place ½ cup of softened butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3 to 5 minutes. This step is key for a soft cake. Next, add 3 large eggs to the butter-sugar mix one at a time. Mix well after each egg. Once all the eggs are in, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will give your cake a nice flavor. Now it’s time to add the wet ingredients. Gradually stir in the reduced apple cider and ½ cup of buttermilk to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this can make the cake tough. Gradually add the dry ingredient mix to the wet mixture. Stir gently to combine. Then, fold in 1 cup of grated apples. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan with cooking spray or butter. Pour the batter into the pan evenly. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready! Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack. If you like, dust it with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your delicious treat! To get a soft and fluffy cake, don't overmix. When you add the dry ingredients, stir just until combined. This keeps the gluten from forming too much. Also, ensure your butter is soft but not melted. This helps trap air and creates a light texture. Finally, folding in the apples last adds moisture and flavor without making the batter heavy. Fresh apple cider adds a bright flavor that store-bought cider may lack. If you can, use fresh cider. It often has more depth and sweetness. If you use store-bought, choose a brand with no added sugars or preservatives. Check the label for a pure apple cider. This choice helps keep your cake tasting natural and delicious. Greasing your bundt pan is key to a clean release. Use unsalted butter or cooking spray. Make sure to coat all the nooks and crannies. A pastry brush helps to spread the grease evenly. You can also use flour after greasing. Sprinkle flour into the pan and shake to coat. This extra step ensures your cake slides out perfectly, keeping its shape intact. {{image_2}} You can make this cake gluten-free with some simple swaps. Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour. Check the blend for xanthan gum; it helps with texture. You can find many good brands in stores or online. This change won’t hurt the taste. It still has that warm apple flavor you love. To make this cake vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. For the butter, use coconut oil or vegan butter. Swap buttermilk for almond milk mixed with a splash of lemon juice. These changes keep the cake tasty and moist. You can add spices or nuts for extra flavor. Try adding a pinch of allspice or cardamom for a new twist. If you like nuts, fold in chopped walnuts or pecans. These add crunch and depth. You can also mix in a bit of dried fruit like raisins. This makes the cake unique each time you bake it. To keep your apple cider donut cake fresh, store it in an airtight container. This helps prevent it from drying out. If you have leftover slices, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. Store the cake at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a warm area, consider refrigerating it to maintain freshness. Freezing your cake is easy and great for later enjoyment. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, slice it into individual portions. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap. After that, place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Your cake can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. The apple cider donut cake lasts about three days at room temperature and up to a week in the fridge. To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. You can also warm it in a toaster oven for a few minutes. This will bring back that fresh-baked taste. If you want to enjoy it warm, sprinkle some powdered sugar on top after reheating. Yes, you can use bottled apple cider. Just make sure it’s not sweetened. Fresh cider gives a better flavor, but bottled works well too. To make the cake moist, try adding an extra egg or using more buttermilk. You can also mix in more grated apples. Each adds moisture and keeps the cake soft. Baking soda is a base that needs acid to work. Baking powder has acid already mixed in. Both help the cake rise, but they do it differently. Yes, you can use oil instead of butter. This change can make the cake more moist. Use a light oil like canola or vegetable for the best results. You can check if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. If it has batter on it, bake for a few more minutes. We’ve covered how to make a delicious apple cider donut cake. You learned about key ingredients and why apples matter. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you bake perfectly. Tips for texture and storage ensure you enjoy every bite. Variations let you explore gluten-free and vegan options. Always remember to ask questions if you're not sure. This cake brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Now, gather your ingredients and start baking!$

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this delicious Apple Cider Delight Donut Cake! Made with fresh apples and warm spices, this easy recipe is perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home. Discover the step-by-step instructions to create this delightful cake that everyone will love. Click through to explore the recipe and enjoy every scrumptious bite! #AppleCiderDonutCake #FallBaking #DessertRecipes #SweetTreats

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Ingredients

2 cups apple cider

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup whole wheat flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup brown sugar, packed

½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, softened

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup grated apples (about 2 small apples)

½ cup buttermilk

Optional: powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Reduce the Cider: In a saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat and let it simmer until it reduces to about 1 cup, approximately 15-20 minutes. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

Cream the Butters and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.

Combine Cider and Buttermilk: Slowly stir in the reduced apple cider and buttermilk to the butter-sugar mixture until just combined.

Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mix to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to avoid overmixing. Finally, fold in the grated apples until evenly distributed.

Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan with cooking spray or butter and pour the batter evenly into the pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Dust: Allow the donut cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Prep Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 1 hr | Servings: 8-10