Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe

If fall had a signature dessert, it would definitely be the Apple Cider Donut Cake. This treat captures everything cozy about the season—warm spices, tender crumb, and that unmistakable apple cider flavor that hits just right. Imagine sinking your fork into a moist, fluffy cake with a cinnamon-sugar crust and a sticky-sweet cider glaze that tastes like autumn in every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress at a holiday gathering or simply want a comforting slice to enjoy with your morning coffee, this Apple Cider Donut Cake is the ultimate way to celebrate those crisp air vibes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Apple Cider Donut Cake lies in its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays an essential role—flour for structure, spices for warmth, and apple cider for that signature fruity tang that makes this cake truly unforgettable.

• All purpose flour (3 ½ cups): Provides a sturdy yet tender base for the cake’s fluffy texture.
• Baking powder (2 ½ teaspoons): Ensures the cake rises perfectly to achieve that light, airy crumb.
• Salt (1 ¼ teaspoons): Balances the sweetness and enhances the depth of the spices.
• Cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Adds a warm, comforting spice essential for that classic fall flavor.
• Nutmeg (1 teaspoon): Offers a subtle nutty undertone that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
• Unsalted butter (2 ½ sticks): Brings rich moisture and helps create a tender crumb.
• Brown sugar (1 ½ cups): Imparts a deep caramel sweetness and keeps the cake wonderfully moist.
• Granulated sugar (½ cup + ⅓ cup for topping): Used in the batter and for that perfect crunchy, sugary crust.
• Eggs (4, room temperature): Provides structure and richness to the cake.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors with a lovely aromatic warmth.
• Apple cider (1 cup for batter + 2 cups for reduction): The star ingredient that infuses the cake with fresh, tangy apple flavor.
• Salted butter (2 tablespoons for glaze): Adds richness and helps the cider glaze set perfectly.
• Demerara or turbinado sugar (2 tablespoons): Provides a coarse, crunchy texture for the outside of the cake.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a 12-cup bundt pan with a non-stick spray that includes flour—this ensures easy release and a clean shape. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Setting these aside means everything is ready to stir in smoothly later on.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer, cream the unsalted butter with both brown and granulated sugars on medium speed until the mixture turns light in color and fluffy—this usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Don’t rush this step; it’s the key to that melt-in-your-mouth texture!

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract to amplify the warm, inviting aroma of your batter.

Step 4: Combine Flour Mixture and Apple Cider

Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three portions, mixing on low speed just until combined. Next, with your mixer still on low, slowly stream in the cup of apple cider and mix until everything is fully blended. Be sure to scrape the bowl well, so no flour pockets remain.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan, smoothing the surface gently. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, until the edges turn a gorgeous golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan before carefully inverting it onto a serving plate.

Step 6: Prepare the Apple Cider Glaze

While the cake is in the oven, pour 2 cups of apple cider into a small saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 30 minutes until the cider is thick and reduced to about ⅓ cup. Stir in the salted butter until melted for a glossy, rich finish.

Step 7: Finish with Sugar and Cinnamon Coating

Mix together the granulated sugar, demerara sugar, and 1 ½ teaspoons of cinnamon in a bowl. Brush the warm bundt cake all over with the cider glaze, then generously sprinkle the sugar mixture on top. Press some sugar onto the sides of the cake with the palm of your hand to create an extra-sweet, cinnamon-kissed crust.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy, elegant touch to the apple cider donut cake, or try some chopped toasted pecans to bring an irresistible crunch. Fresh apple slices arranged on the plate add a crisp, refreshing bite alongside the soft cake. For a cozy twist, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates every forkful.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of hot spiced tea or rich coffee, enhancing the comforting fall flavors. Consider serving it with a warm caramel dipping sauce for those times you want a little extra indulgence. It’s also fantastic alongside roasted autumn fruits like pears or spiced cranberries for a seasonal spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun brunch centerpiece, serve slices of Apple Cider Donut Cake on individual plates drizzled with a warm caramel or maple glaze. Layer pieces between sheets of parchment paper and wrap them as grab-and-go gifts for friends and family. Or, transform it into mini trifle cups by layering crumbled cake with apple compote and cinnamon whipped cream.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Apple Cider Donut Cake will stay fresh wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping it covered prevents the cake from drying out while preserving the sugary crust’s delightful texture.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this cake later, you can freeze it for up to three months. Wrap the cake (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to maintain moistness and flavor integrity.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a 300-degree oven for 5 to 7 minutes. A light toast revives the sugary crust and enhances that fresh-from-the-oven feeling.

FAQs

Can I use bottled apple cider for this recipe?

Absolutely! Bottled apple cider works perfectly and is usually what most home cooks use. Just be sure to choose a good-quality cider without added preservatives for the best flavor.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. For best results, choose a blend designed for cakes, and consider adding a teaspoon of xanthan gum if your mix doesn’t already include it to help with texture.

How long does the apple cider reduction take to thicken?

Simmering the cider for about 30 minutes usually gets it to the desired syrupy consistency. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, so it doesn’t burn, and remove it from heat once it thickens to roughly ⅓ cup.

Can I make mini Apple Cider Donut Cakes instead?

Yes! Mini bundt pans or muffin tins work well. Just reduce the baking time to around 20-25 minutes and test for doneness with a toothpick. The cider glaze and cinnamon sugar topping remain the same and will be just as delicious on smaller portions.

What is the best way to serve this cake warm?

Serving the Apple Cider Donut Cake warm brings out the rich spices and the sticky glaze at its best. Warm slices in the oven or microwave just before serving, and consider adding a scoop of ice cream or fresh whipped cream for the perfect warm-and-cool contrast.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something about this Apple Cider Donut Cake that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. From its fragrant spices to the luscious glaze that coats every inch, it brings a touch of seasonal magic to any table. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover how effortlessly it becomes a beloved favorite in your baking repertoire. Trust me, once you taste it, this cake will be your go-to for cozy gatherings and sweet moments all autumn long.

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