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To create the perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake, it is essential to understand the key ingredients that contribute to its rich flavor and moist texture. The primary components include fresh apple cider, all-purpose flour, sugars, and a blend of warm spices.

Apple Cider Donut Cake

Embrace the flavors of fall with this delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake recipe! Perfectly blending the warm, spiced goodness of traditional apple cider donuts with the moist texture of cake, this dessert is a must-have for your autumn gatherings. Using fresh apple cider and fragrant spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this recipe evokes cozy memories of apple picking and crisp days. Share this delightful treat with family and friends for an unforgettable seasonal experience.

Ingredients
  

2 cups apple cider

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup granulated sugar

½ cup packed brown sugar

¾ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature

3 large eggs

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 cup buttermilk

½ cup granulated sugar (for topping)

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

Instructions
 

Simmer the Cider: In a small saucepan, pour in the apple cider and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until it reduces to approximately 1 cup in volume. Once reduced, remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

    Preheat the Oven: While the cider cools, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 10-inch bundt pan by greasing it thoroughly with butter and dusting it with flour to prevent sticking.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well blended, and then set the bowl aside.

        Cream Together Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.

          Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: One at a time, add the eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated. Then, stir in the vanilla extract, blending until smooth.

            Combine Cider and Buttermilk: Gradually pour the cooled apple cider and buttermilk into the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Mix on low speed until everything is smoothly combined.

              Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the bowl of dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; be careful not to overwork the batter, as this can affect the cake's texture.

                Transfer Batter to Bundt Pan: Pour the cake batter into the prepared bundt pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake.

                  Bake the Cake: Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

                    Cool and Release: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the bundt pan for about 15 minutes. Carefully invert the pan onto a wire rack to release the cake, and let it cool completely.

                      Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining ½ cup of granulated sugar with the 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Once the cake has completely cooled, use this mixture to generously coat the top and sides of the cake for added flavor and sweetness.

                        Serve and Enjoy: Slice the Apple Cider Donut Cake into generous portions and serve it warm or at room temperature. For the perfect autumn treat, pair each slice with a refreshing glass of fresh apple cider!

                          Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Servings: 12 slices

                            - Presentation Tips: Dust the serving platter with a sprinkle of cinnamon before placing the cake on it for an eye-catching detail. A few thin apple slices can embellish the plate for a delightful fall theme.