Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe
Apple Cider Donut Cake is a cozy, fall-inspired dessert that captures the warm flavors of apple cider and cinnamon in a soft, moist cake. It’s like your favorite apple cider donut transformed into a beautiful bundt cake perfect for autumn gatherings, holidays, or anytime you crave a comforting treat.
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Ingredients:
For the Cake:
1 cup apple cider
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar (packed)
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ cup buttermilk (or milk mixed with 1 tsp lemon juice)
For the Topping:
¼ cup melted butter
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon cinnamon
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Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan with butter and flour or nonstick spray.
Reduce Apple Cider:
Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced to ½ cup (about 10-15 minutes). Let cool.
Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract and the cooled reduced cider.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Combine and Add Buttermilk:
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined (don’t overmix).
Bake:
Pour the batter into the bundt pan and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Coat:
Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes, then brush with melted butter. Mix cinnamon and sugar together and sprinkle or roll the cake in the mixture for a classic donut finish.
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Health Benefits:
1- Rich in Antioxidants: Apple cider contains polyphenols that help protect cells from damage.
2- Mood-Boosting Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg have natural anti-inflammatory properties and can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
3- Energy Source: The carbohydrates in this cake provide a quick energy boost perfect for cool mornings or snacks.
4- Comfort and Stress Relief: The aroma and flavor of spiced apple desserts can trigger relaxation and comfort responses, improving mood.
5- Homemade Advantage: Made from scratch, you can control sugar levels and choose healthier ingredient swaps like whole-wheat flour or coconut sugar.