A warm, nutty brown butter apple cider donut cake with a cinnamon sugar crust that is moist, tender, and perfect for fall gatherings. This baked donut cake combines comforting flavors with a satisfying crunch.
Watch the brown butter carefully to avoid burning; stir constantly and remove from heat once browned. Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender. Use fresh apple cider for best flavor; if unavailable, mix apple juice with a splash of lemon juice. Let the cake rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow flavors to settle. If the cake browns too quickly, tent with foil midway through baking. For dairy-free, substitute butter with browned coconut oil. For gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
Keywords: brown butter, apple cider, donut cake, cinnamon sugar, fall dessert, baked donut, cozy cake, autumn recipe