Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe

If you adore the cozy flavors of fall and crave a treat that combines the best of apple cider and donut magic, you are going to fall head over heels for this Apple Cider Donut Cake. It’s like biting into a soft, fragrant donut but in a tender cake form that’s perfect for sharing with friends or indulging all to yourself. The blend of spices, apple cider, and a cinnamon sugar topping creates a mouthwatering experience that feels festive and comforting all at once. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon pick-me-up, this Apple Cider Donut Cake will quickly become a cherished favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create those signature fall flavors and a perfectly tender crumb. Each component plays its part: spices add warmth, apple cider brings a subtle tang and moisture, and the cinnamon sugar topping gives the final sweet crunch you crave.

• 2 ½ cups all purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives the cake structure while keeping it soft.
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder: Essential for a nice rise and light texture.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidic cider to leaven the cake perfectly.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Infuses that classic autumnal warmth throughout the cake.
• ¾ teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle zing that complements the apple.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A hint of cozy spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spiced notes beautifully.
• 1 cup apple cider: Brings moisture and a distinct tangy sweetness.
• ½ cup applesauce or apple butter: Adds moistness and apple flavor without extra fat.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Creates richness and tender crumb.
• ¼ cup canola or vegetable oil: Helps keep the cake moist and soft.
• ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake evenly.
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds a touch of caramel notes and moisture.
• 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and lend structure.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors with its warm aroma.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): For brushing on the cake before the topping.
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar: For the cinnamon sugar topping coating the cake.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Mixed into the topping for an irresistible crust.
• Whipped cream, caramel sauce (optional): Perfect for serving if you want an extra indulgent touch.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F. Position a rack in the center to ensure even baking. Hold off on greasing the bundt pan just yet to avoid unnecessary waste—wait until you’re ready to pour in the batter.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. This blend of spices and leaveners is the heart of that trademark Apple Cider Donut Cake flavor and texture.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a glass measuring cup, combine the apple cider with your choice of applesauce or apple butter. This mixture will bring moisture, flavor, and a little tanginess that makes the cake wonderfully tender.

Step 4: Cream Butter, Oils, and Sugars

Using a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, canola oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together for about two minutes. This step is key for incorporating air and creating a luscious crumb in your Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, add the eggs while mixing to fully incorporate, then pour in the vanilla extract. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to ensure an even mixture.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Mixtures

Add the flour in three parts and the apple cider mixture in two parts, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix gently and be careful not to overmix; folding a few times with a spatula at the end helps keep the texture light and tender.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Generously grease your bundt pan (baking spray with flour works wonderfully). Pour in the batter, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it into your oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes. Use a toothpick to test doneness; it should come out clean. Once done, cool the cake for 15 minutes in the pan before inverting it carefully onto a wire rack.

Step 8: Prepare and Apply Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together. While the cake is still warm, brush it with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar immediately. Working in sections helps you coat every nook of that delicious bundt shape. The warm butter helps the sugar adhere perfectly, giving you that classic Apple Cider Donut Cake crust.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream adds a lovely finish and a touch of elegance to your Apple Cider Donut Cake. For those who love a richer bite, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce amplifies the dessert’s sweet spice flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or even a frothy latte. If you’re serving it as a brunch centerpiece, fresh fruit or a mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing your Apple Cider Donut Cake into thick wedges and serving each piece with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted nuts. Or, for a dazzling brunch option, layer cubes of the cake with cinnamon-spiced yogurt and fresh apples in clear glasses for a pretty trifle-style dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping it sealed ensures the cake stays moist and flavorful without drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze your cake after baking and cooling completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best texture.

Reheating

To bring life back to your Apple Cider Donut Cake leftovers, warm slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or heat in a low oven (about 300°F) wrapped in foil until warmed through. This quick step revives the cake’s tender, comforting qualities.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour for this Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free baking blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure. The texture might vary slightly, but the flavors will still shine.

Is it necessary to use both butter and oil in the recipe?

Using both butter and oil combines the richness of butter with the moisture retention of oil, resulting in a tender and flavorful cake. You can experiment with just one, but this combo offers the best texture.

Can I make this cake vegan?

To veganize the recipe, substitute eggs with flax eggs, replace butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil, and use apple butter instead of applesauce for moisture. Keep in mind baking powder must be aluminum-free and ensure all other ingredients are vegan.

What’s the best type of apple cider to use?

Fresh, unfiltered apple cider works beautifully as it brings natural sweetness and depth. If unavailable, a high-quality bottled apple juice can be a substitute, but avoid sweetened or flavored varieties for best results.

Can I make this recipe in a regular cake pan instead of a bundt pan?

Absolutely! Use a greased 9×13 inch pan and adjust baking time to about 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on doneness with a toothpick test to avoid overbaking.

Final Thoughts

Making this Apple Cider Donut Cake is like inviting a little slice of autumn joy right into your kitchen. It’s a delightfully cozy, spiced treat that’s surprisingly simple to make yet feels special enough to serve for any occasion. Once you try it, this cake will definitely find a permanent place in your recipe repertoire. Go ahead and dive into this warm, flavorful experience—you won’t regret it!

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