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At the heart of the Apple Cider Donut Layer Cake is, of course, the apple cider. This ingredient plays a pivotal role in both flavor and moisture content. To achieve the rich, concentrated taste that defines this cake, we will reduce the apple cider. The reduction process involves simmering the cider until it thickens and intensifies in flavor, allowing the sweet and tart notes of the apples to shine through. This not only enhances the cake's overall taste but also helps to create a moist crumb that keeps the cake from drying out during baking.

Apple Cider Donut Layer Cake

Celebrate the flavors of autumn with this delicious Apple Cider Donut Layer Cake! This delightful dessert combines the iconic taste of classic apple cider donuts with rich, moist layers and a creamy frosting. Using seasonal ingredients like fresh apple cider and warm spices, this cake captures fall's essence perfectly. Ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or cozy nights in, this cake is sure to impress. Follow our step-by-step guide to bake your own stunning masterpiece this season!
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Ingredients
  

For the Cake:

2 cups apple cider

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

1 cup light brown sugar, packed

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

½ cup vegetable oil

4 large eggs

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon salt

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

½ cup granulated sugar

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

For the Frosting:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

¼ cup apple cider

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For Decoration (optional):

Caramel drizzle

Crushed walnuts or pecans

Instructions
 

Reduce the Apple Cider: In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until it’s reduced to about 1 cup (approximately 20-30 minutes). Allow it to cool completely.

    Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.

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

        Combine Wet Ingredients: In another large bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, applesauce, and vegetable oil until well combined. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the reduced apple cider.

          Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

            Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

              Make Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon for the coating.

                Coat the Cakes: Once the cakes have completely cooled, sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the top of each cake layer.

                  Prepare the Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, then add the apple cider, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

                    Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving platter. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Repeat with the second layer and add more frosting. Top with the third layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake.

                      Decorate: Drizzle caramel on top and sprinkle with crushed walnuts or pecans if desired.

                        Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake and serve with a warm mug of cider for a delightful experience!

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 45 minutes | 1 hour 30 minutes | 10 servings