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To fully appreciate the Apple Cider Donut Cake, it’s essential to understand the cultural significance of apple cider donuts themselves. These delightful treats have a rich history in American cuisine, particularly in the Northeast, where apple picking and cider pressing have been cherished autumn traditions for generations. The origins of apple cider donuts can be traced back to the early 20th century, when cider mills began experimenting with fried dough to utilize surplus apples.

Apple Cider Donut Cake

Embrace the cozy flavors of autumn with this Apple Cider Donut Cake! Combining the nostalgic taste of apple cider donuts with a moist, tender crumb, this cake is perfect for fall gatherings. The warm spices and rich apple flavor make it a seasonal favorite. Serve it with coffee or at family events for a delightful treat. With easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delicious dessert that captures the essence of the season and brings loved ones together.
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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

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, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer until the cider is reduced to about 1 cup, approximately 15-20 minutes. Let it cool slightly.

    Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan and set it aside.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Set this mixture aside.

        Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes.

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

            Incorporate Cider and Buttermilk: Gradually add the cooled apple cider and buttermilk to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until smooth.

              Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

                Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.

                  Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

                    Cool and Release: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

                      Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix ½ cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Once the cake has cooled, generously coat the top and sides of the cake with the cinnamon sugar mixture.

                        Serve: Slice and serve this delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake warm or at room temperature. Enjoy with a glass of fresh apple cider for the ultimate fall treat!

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