The Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delightful twist on the classic apple cider doughnut, a staple in many fall festivities. This cake captures the essence of autumn with its rich apple flavor and warm spices, making it a perfect addition to any seasonal gathering. The origins of apple cider doughnuts are deeply rooted in the Northeastern United States, where apple orchards flourish and cider mills are abundant. These doughnuts have been a beloved treat for generations, especially in places like Vermont and New York. By transforming this classic into a cake, we can enjoy the same comforting flavors in a new, exciting form. The cake pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or tea, and its moist, tender crumb is reminiscent of the original doughnut texture. For more on the history and variations of apple cider doughnuts, you can visit this article.
Ingredients for Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions for Making Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt cake pan.
- In a small saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until it reduces to about 1 cup, approximately 15-20 minutes. Let it cool.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
- In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add the reduced apple cider and buttermilk to the wet ingredients, alternating with the dry flour mixture. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with an apple cider glaze before serving.
Nutritional Information
The Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a moderate indulgence in terms of nutrition. One slice of this cake (assuming the cake is divided into 12 servings) contains approximately 250 calories, 10 grams of fat, 35 grams of carbohydrates, and 4 grams of protein. The inclusion of whole wheat flour provides a slight boost in fiber content compared to using only white flour, which can aid in digestive health. The apple cider reduction adds a natural sweetness and flavor without the need for excessive added sugars. You can find more detailed nutritional information on the benefits of apple cider and its uses in cooking at this site. Keep in mind that the nutritional content can vary based on the specific brands of ingredients used.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To make your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake even more delightful, consider these tips and variations: 1. Enhance the apple flavor by adding a grated apple or a handful of diced apple pieces into the batter. 2. For a more pronounced spice profile, increase the amount of cinnamon or add a pinch of allspice. 3. If you prefer a sweeter cake, consider adding a cinnamon-sugar coating. Brush the cake lightly with melted butter and then dust it with cinnamon sugar while it’s still warm. 4. For a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose and whole wheat flour with a gluten-free baking blend. 5. Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Serving Suggestions
This Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways: 1. As a breakfast treat, serve it alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. The warm spices and apple flavor make it a comforting way to start the day. 2. For a festive brunch, pair the cake with a selection of cheeses and fresh fruits to balance the sweetness. 3. As a dessert, consider serving it with a caramel sauce drizzle or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the cake’s flavors. 4. This cake also makes a wonderful gift for neighbors or friends during the fall season. Wrap it in a decorative box with a note for a personal touch. 5. If you’re hosting a fall gathering, cut the cake into smaller pieces and serve it buffet-style with other seasonal treats like pumpkin pie or spiced cookies.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the Apple Cider Doughnut Cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh.
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Apple juice can be used as a substitute, but the flavor will be less robust. Consider adding a touch of apple cider vinegar to mimic the tartness of cider.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
The Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delectable homage to the classic fall doughnut. Its rich apple flavor and aromatic spices make it a perfect addition to your autumn baking repertoire. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake is sure to impress. Try this recipe today and bring a taste of fall into your home. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with friends and family!
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