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As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the allure of fall brings with it a craving for warm, comforting flavors. One dessert that encapsulates the essence of autumn is the Apple Cider Donut Layer Cake. This delightful treat combines the beloved flavors of apple cider and warm spices, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering or special occasion. Imagine a cake with layers that mirror the classic apple cider donut, featuring a unique cinnamon sugar coating and a smooth, creamy frosting that ties it all together. Each slice is a homage to the season, evoking memories of visiting apple orchards and enjoying freshly fried donuts dusted in cinnamon sugar.

Apple Cider Donut Layer Cake

Embrace the flavors of autumn with this Apple Cider Donut Layer Cake, a delightful dessert that transforms the essence of classic apple cider donuts into a stunning cake. Featuring layers infused with apple cider and warm spices, this cake boasts a crunchy cinnamon sugar coating and creamy frosting. Perfect for gatherings or cozy weekends, this recipe promises to invoke memories of apple orchards and festive celebrations. Indulge in a piece of fall with every slice!
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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 packed light brown sugar

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 to room temperature

4 cups powdered sugar

¼ cup apple cider

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For Decoration (optional):

Drizzle of caramel

Crushed walnuts or pecans

Instructions
 

Reduce the Apple Cider: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, bring the apple cider to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer. Cook until the cider reduces to about 1 cup, which will take approximately 20-30 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and allow it to cool completely.

    Preheat the Oven: Set your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them to prevent sticking.

      Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until thoroughly combined. Set this mixture aside for later use.

        Combine Wet Ingredients: In another large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, packed brown sugar, applesauce, and vegetable oil. Mix until well blended. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, stir in the cooled reduced apple cider until everything is evenly combined.

          Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix to keep the cakes light and fluffy.

            Bake the Cakes: Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of each cake comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

              Make Cinnamon Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix until evenly incorporated; set aside.

                Coat the Cakes: Once the cakes are completely cooled, sift or sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture generously over the top of each cake layer for added flavor.

                  Prepare the Frosting: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter using an electric mixer until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing continuously. Then, slowly pour in the apple cider, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, beating until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.

                    Assemble the Cake: Place one layer of the cake on a serving platter. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and spread more frosting, then top with the final cake layer. Frost the top and sides of the entire cake, smoothing it out artistically.

                      Decorate: To finish, drizzle caramel over the top of the cake and sprinkle crushed walnuts or pecans as desired for a crunchy texture and visual appeal.

                        Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve with warm mugs of apple cider for a cozy and delightful dessert experience!

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