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To make the Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake, you will need the following ingredients: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 cup apple cider - 1 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened - 2 large eggs, lightly beaten - 1 teaspoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon baking soda - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1/4 cup brown sugar for topping - 1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar (sugar and cinnamon mix) These ingredients blend together to create a moist, flavorful cake that tastes just like your favorite apple cider donuts. Each item plays a key role. The apple cider gives it a sweet, fruity flavor. The butter adds richness, while the eggs help bind everything. The spices, like cinnamon and nutmeg, enhance the cake's warmth and depth. For the topping, I use brown sugar and cinnamon sugar. This mix creates a sweet caramelized crust that makes every bite delightful. You can find the detailed steps for making this cake in the Full Recipe section. 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish. You can grease it with non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper. This helps with easy removal later. 2. In a large mixing bowl, place the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together. Mix until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. 3. Add the lightly beaten eggs and pure vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Blend until smooth and well mixed. 1. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Make sure they are well combined. 2. Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Alternate adding the dry mix with the apple cider. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined to keep the cake light. 3. Carefully pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the dish. 1. In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon sugar thoroughly. Sprinkle this sweet mix evenly over the top of the batter for a great finish. 2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. 3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. For the full recipe, check the ingredients and steps above. Enjoy your apple cider donut snack cake! To make a light cake, avoid overmixing the batter. Once the dry and wet ingredients mix, stop stirring as soon as you see no dry flour. This keeps your cake fluffy. Use proper measuring techniques for the best results. For flour, spoon it into a measuring cup and level it off. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, as this packs the flour down. You can add more spices to boost the flavor. Consider including a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for warmth. These spices can create a deeper taste. Using fresh apple cider makes a difference. It adds a rich apple flavor that bottled cider may lack. If possible, choose local cider for the best taste. Once your cake cools, dust it with powdered sugar. This adds a nice touch and makes it look pretty. Use a fine sieve to sprinkle the sugar evenly. For serving, pair each slice with warm apple cider. This combination brings out the flavors and warms your guests' hearts. It creates a cozy, inviting experience. {{image_4}} You can make this cake even better with fun add-ins. Nuts add a great crunch. Try using chopped walnuts or pecans. Chocolate chips are another option. They melt and create a rich flavor. Seasonal fruits also work well. Diced apples or pears enhance the cake’s taste. You can even add some dried cranberries for a tart touch. If you need a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Many blends work well in cakes. For a vegan cake, replace the eggs with flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Use a plant-based butter to keep the texture smooth. You can change the size of the cake easily. For smaller portions, bake in a muffin tin. Adjust the bake time to about 15-20 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick. For a larger cake, use a 9x13 inch pan as the recipe states. If you use a round pan, watch the time closely. The batter may take longer to bake. For the full recipe, refer back to the earlier section. To keep your Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake fresh, store it properly. You can keep it at room temperature for up to three days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor. If it’s warm in your kitchen, consider refrigerating it. However, refrigeration can dry it out. So, always choose airtight containers for the best results. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Cut the cake into squares before freezing. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap tightly. Then, place the wrapped pieces in a freezer bag. This keeps them fresh for up to three months. When you want to enjoy a piece, thaw it at room temperature. You can also reheat it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will bring back its warm, soft texture. Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake lasts about 3 to 5 days. Keep it in an airtight container. This keeps it moist and fresh. If you want it to last longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it well in plastic wrap before freezing. It can stay good in the freezer for up to three months. Yes, you can use different types of flour. Whole wheat flour works well for a denser cake. You can also try gluten-free blends. Just make sure they are suitable for baking. Each flour type may change the taste and texture slightly. If you need an egg substitute, try using applesauce. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg. You can also use mashed banana or a flaxseed meal mix. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help bind the cake like eggs do. Yes, you can make the Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake ahead of time. Bake it, let it cool, then wrap it tightly. Store it at room temperature for a few days. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing. You can find pre-made Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake at some bakeries or specialty stores. Local farmers' markets may offer fresh versions in the fall. Check online for local shops that might sell it. If you want to enjoy the best flavor, I recommend making it at home using the Full Recipe. You now have all the steps to make a tasty Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake. From choosing fresh ingredients to following simple steps, you can create a delightful treat. Remember, a few tweaks can add personal flair. Feel free to try different flavors or make it gluten-free. Proper storage keeps it fresh longer too. Enjoy this sweet snack with your family or friends. Baking can be simple and fun, and this recipe shows just how rewarding it can be.

Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake

Indulge in the sweet and cozy flavors of fall with this Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake recipe! This delightful dessert combines the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg with the rich taste of apple cider for a treat everyone will love. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, it's easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Click through for the full recipe and elevate your baking game today!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup apple cider

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened at room temperature

2 large eggs, lightly beaten

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 cup brown sugar, for topping

1 tablespoon cinnamon sugar (combine 1 tablespoon granulated sugar with 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon)

Instructions
 

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by greasing it with non-stick spray or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

    In a large mixing bowl, place the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color—about 3-5 minutes.

      Add the lightly beaten eggs and the pure vanilla extract into the creamed mixture, combining them until completely integrated and smooth.

        In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

          Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Alternate adding the whisked dry ingredients with the apple cider, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.

            Carefully pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, using a spatula to evenly spread it across the dish.

              In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and homemade cinnamon sugar thoroughly. Generously sprinkle this sweet mixture evenly over the top of the batter for a caramelized finish.

                Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.

                  Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 12

                      - Presentation Tips: Once cooled, slice the cake into squares and dust the top delicately with powdered sugar. For an elegant touch, pair each slice with a small bowl of warm apple cider for a charming and delightful combination.