This Spiced Apple Cider Donut Cake with a Salted Caramel Drizzle is full of warm fall flavors, perfect for autumn gatherings or a cozy dessert treat. It combines a moist, spiced apple cider cake with a decadent salted caramel sauce that enhances every bite.
Ingredients:
Apple Cider Cake:
- 1½ cups apple cider
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- ½ cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Salted Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- ½ cup heavy cream, room temperature
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cubed and at room temperature
- ½ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
Directions:
For the Cake:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Reduce Apple Cider: In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to about ¾ cup. Set aside to cool.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in applesauce, vanilla extract, and the reduced apple cider until smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined (avoid over-mixing to keep the cake tender).
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
- Make the Caramel: In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Allow the mixture to come to a boil without stirring, swirling the pan occasionally until it turns a deep amber color.
- Add Cream and Butter: Carefully add the heavy cream and butter, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the sea salt.
- Cool: Let the caramel sauce cool slightly before drizzling over the cake.
To Serve:
Drizzle the cooled salted caramel sauce over the cooled cake, allowing it to cascade over the sides. Serve with additional caramel sauce on the side if desired for an extra decadent touch.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: Serve at room temperature for the best texture.
- Storage: Cover and store leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: The cake (without caramel sauce) can be wrapped and frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature and drizzle with fresh caramel before serving.
Helpful Notes:
- Apple Cider Reduction: Reducing the apple cider intensifies its flavor, adding depth to the cake.
- Alternative Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste—ginger or cardamom make a great addition.
- Caramel Care: When making caramel, be patient and watch for the amber color to avoid burning.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this cake without a bundt pan?
Yes, you can bake it in a 9×13-inch pan, but reduce the baking time slightly and keep an eye on doneness. - What if I don’t have apple cider?
You can substitute with apple juice, though the flavor will be milder. - Can I use salted butter for the caramel sauce?
Yes, just reduce or omit the added sea salt. - How can I make the caramel thicker?
For a thicker caramel, let it simmer for an additional minute or two, but be careful not to overcook. - Can I add nuts to the cake?
Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice texture and pair well with the apple and caramel flavors.
This Apple Cider Donut Cake with Salted Caramel is an autumnal treat full of cozy, spiced flavors. Perfect for enjoying with a warm beverage or sharing at gatherings!