Apple Cider Donut Pound Cake
A delightful and heartwarming treat that captures the essence of fall, featuring warm spices and sweet-tart apple cider.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 cup cooking spray For easy removal and a golden crust.
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider Rich and aromatic, it forms the base of the cake's unique flavor.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour For a tender, fluffy crumb.
- 2 tsps baking powder Helps the cake rise perfectly.
- 1 1/2 tsps ground cinnamon Infuses warmth and enhances the cake's comforting taste.
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg Adds a subtle spicy depth.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt Balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted Contributes to rich butteriness.
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar Provides moisture and caramel flavor.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar Sweetens the cake perfectly.
- 1 large egg Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract Adds aroma and flavor.
- 1/3 cup whole milk Ensures the cake stays tender.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating) Creates a crunchy, sweet outer layer.
- 2 tsps ground cinnamon (for coating) Additional warmth for coating.
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted (for coating) Helps cinnamon-sugar stick.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously spray a 9-by-4 loaf pan with cooking spray.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and kosher salt.
- In a larger mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and smooth.
- Add in the egg and whisk until fully combined. Incorporate the cooled apple cider and vanilla extract, mixing well.
- Gradually add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently. Then add the whole milk, followed by the remaining dry ingredients.
- Mix until just combined, then transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
Baking
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Coating
- Mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon on a plate.
- Brush the warm cake with melted butter and roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Use fresh apple cider for the best taste, measure ingredients accurately, and avoid overmixing for a tender crumb. Store covered at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for about a week. Can be frozen for up to three months.