Go Back
- 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 tablespoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1 cup apple cider - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 1/2 cup chopped apples (preferably Granny Smith) - 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting) In this recipe, the dry ingredients give structure and flavor. The all-purpose flour is the base. Baking powder helps the cake rise. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and spice, while salt enhances all the flavors. For the wet ingredients, apple cider is key. It adds moisture and a rich apple taste. Granulated and brown sugars sweeten the cake. Butter brings richness and flavor. Eggs bind everything together and add fluffiness. Vanilla extract rounds out the flavors. You can also add optional ingredients for a fun twist. Chopped apples add texture and more apple flavor. Dusting with powdered sugar gives a nice finish and sweetness. This cake is simple, yet it packs a delightful punch! First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step warms up the oven for even baking. Next, grease a 9x13-inch baking pan. Use butter or cooking spray to coat it well. This helps the cake come out easily after baking. In a large bowl, whisk together the following dry ingredients: - 2 cups all-purpose flour - 1 tablespoon baking powder - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/2 teaspoon salt Whisking well combines everything, ensuring a light cake. In another bowl, combine these wet ingredients: - 1/2 cup granulated sugar - 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 2 large eggs - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugars dissolve. This adds sweetness and richness to your cake. Now, slowly add 1 cup of apple cider to the wet mixture. Stir gently to mix. Then, gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix. Be careful not to overmix; you want it just combined. This keeps your cake tender. Gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped apples. They add a nice texture and flavor. Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes. You will know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps keep the cake from getting soggy. Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. Enjoy your warm, delicious apple cider donut snack cake! To make your snack cake soft and moist, avoid overmixing. This means you should mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough. When measuring flour, use a spoon to scoop it into your measuring cup. Then, level it off with a knife. This method helps you avoid packing the flour, which can lead to a dry cake. Spices can boost the flavor of your cake. Besides cinnamon and nutmeg, consider adding a touch of ginger or allspice for warmth. Just a little can make a big difference. Using different apple varieties can change the taste. Granny Smith apples are tart and add a nice contrast. You can also try Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a sweeter twist. Serve your cake warm or at room temperature. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a sweet touch. For garnish, you can add a drizzle of caramel sauce or some chopped fresh apples. These add color and make the cake even more inviting. {{image_2}} If you want to make this cake gluten-free, you can swap the flour. Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Look for one that has xanthan gum added. This will keep the cake light and fluffy. Be sure to check the blend's ratio to regular flour. It often works in a 1:1 ratio. For a dairy-free snack cake, replace the unsalted butter. You can use dairy-free butter or vegetable oil. Coconut oil also works well, adding a slight flavor. If you use oil, 1/2 cup is a good amount. This keeps the cake moist and delicious. You can change up the flavors to suit your taste. Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans gives a nice crunch. Chocolate chips can also bring a sweet surprise. Try adding 1/2 cup of either for a fun twist. Experiment with spices, too. You could add ginger or allspice to enhance the warmth. Just 1/2 teaspoon of each will do. This opens up new flavors while keeping the cake cozy and inviting. To store your Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake, let it cool completely. Once cooled, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This keeps the cake fresh. You can store it at room temperature for up to three days. Avoid direct sunlight, as it may dry the cake out. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. First, cut it into squares. Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out all the air before sealing. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can store the cake in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy a piece, take it out of the freezer. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight. For a warm slice, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thawed cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. This warms it through without drying it out. Enjoy your delicious cake as if it was just baked! Apple cider donut snack cake is a cozy dessert inspired by apple cider donuts. It combines rich flavors of apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The cake is soft, moist, and packed with chopped apples. This treat is perfect for fall gatherings or any time you crave comfort food. The recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for home bakers of all levels. Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. Bake it a day before your event or gathering. Once the cake cools, store it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and moist. You can also freeze the cake for longer storage. Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw it in the fridge when ready to serve. If you don't have apple cider, you can use apple juice as a substitute. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. You can also mix apple juice with a bit of vinegar for a closer taste to apple cider. Another option is to use a mix of water and apple sauce. Each choice will still yield a tasty cake. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready. You can also look for a golden-brown top and a firm texture. If the top springs back when lightly pressed, it's a good sign the cake is fully baked. In this post, I shared how to make a delicious apple cider donut snack cake. I covered the key ingredients, preparation steps, and helpful tips for the perfect bake. You learned about storage options and found answers to common questions. Baking should be fun and easy, so don't hesitate to experiment with flavors. Try variations and enjoy this cake warm, maybe with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Happy baking!

Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of fall with this Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake! This easy recipe combines the warmth of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg for a delicious treat perfect for any occasion. Learn how to whip up this moist and flavorful cake that’s ideal for sharing. Ready to satisfy your sweet tooth?
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup apple cider

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon baking powder

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup chopped apples (preferably Granny Smith)

1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions
 

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.

    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.

      In another bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well blended.

        Slowly add the apple cider to the wet mixture, stirring until incorporated.

          Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.

            Gently fold in the chopped apples.

              Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.

                Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

                  Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

                    Once cooled, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a sweet finishing touch.

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 min | 45 min | 12 servings

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve warm or at room temperature, cut into squares, and garnish with additional chopped apples or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.