Deliciously Cosy Spiced Apple Juice Donut Cake Recipe to Embrace Autumn Flavours

As autumn leaves drift and the air gets chillier, the pumpkin spice lattes firmly take over their seasonal annual reign, but perhaps controversially I will never be convinced that pumpkin spice has any place in my latte. I believe another comforting flavour deserves your attention: spiced apple juice donut cake! This apple juice donut cake is more than a treat; it’s an experience. Each moist bite bursts with the tangy sweetness of apple juice, perfectly matched with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and all spice.

Spiced Apple Juice Donut Cake - The Recipe

Recipe

For the Cake:

- 185g plain flour

- 1 tsp baking powder

- 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda

- 1/4 tsp salt

- 1 tsp ground cinnamon

- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

- 1/2 tsp ground allspice

- 115g unsalted butter, melted

- 100g granulated sugar

- 50g soft light brown sugar

- 2 large eggs

- 118ml apple juice

- 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:

- 50g granulated sugar

- 1 tsp ground cinnamon

- 2 tbsp melted butter

Method

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial, as it sets the stage for an evenly baked cake. While waiting, grease and flour a loaf pan to ensure your cake easily releases after baking, or a loose bottom sandwich tin..

In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, salt and spices.

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the butter, sugars and eggs. After combining well, add the apple juice and vanilla. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing since this can lead to a dense cake.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, if you are using a sandwich tin, bake for 20 to 25 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the centre; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

While the cake bakes, combine the cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. This mixture will elevate your cake with delightful sweet hints after baking, giving it that traditional apple donut flavour profile.

Once the cake has baked and cooled slightly, brush the top with melted butter. Generously sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mix over it, making sure it gets well-coated.

Let the cake cool completely in the pan before transferring to a wire rack. Cooling helps the cake set and makes slicing easier. After it cools, cut it into thick slices and pair them with a warm cup of tea or coffee.