Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe

Introduction

This Apple Cider Donut Cake with one-bowl prep brings all the cozy flavors of autumn into a simple, moist bundt cake. It captures the essence of classic cider mill donuts with warm spices and a cinnamon-sugar coating, but in an easy, no-fuss format perfect for breakfast or dessert. For more seasonal baking, try this Big Apple Crumb Cheesecake Recipe or these Gingerbread Cake with Cinnamon Molasses Frosting Recipe.

Ingredients

This Apple Cider Donut Cake fills your kitchen with the cozy aroma of cinnamon and baked apples, delivering a moist, tender crumb and that signature spiced-sugar crust reminiscent of your favorite autumn treat.

• 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp (5 g) ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp (1 g) nutmeg
• 1 tsp (5.6 g) salt
• 1 1/2 tbsp (21 g) baking powder
• 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (110 g) brown sugar
• 1 cup (224 g) vegetable oil
• 3 eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup (250 g) unsweetened applesauce, at room temperature
• 1 cup (248 g) apple cider (not vinegar), at room temperature
• 1 tsp (5.6 g) vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
• 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar (for coating)
• 2 tsp (5 g) cinnamon (for coating)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	35 minutes
Total Time	50 minutes

Context: This Apple Cider Donut Cake recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Reduce the Apple Cider

Pour 1½ cups of apple cider into a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until reduced to about ½ cup, which should take 15–20 minutes. This concentrates the flavor, giving your Apple Cider Donut Cake a rich, autumnal taste.

Let the reduced cider cool completely before using. You can speed this up by placing the saucepan in an ice bath.

Step 2 — Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even distribution of leaveners and spices.

Step 3 — Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat ½ cup softened unsalted butter with ¾ cup granulated sugar on medium speed for 2–3 minutes, until light and fluffy. Scrape down the bowl halfway through.

Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Step 4 — Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

With the mixer on low, add the flour mixture in three parts, alternating with the cooled reduced apple cider in two parts, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.

The batter will be thick. If it seems too stiff, you can fold in a tablespoon of sour cream or buttermilk for extra moisture.

Step 5 — Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round or Bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden and spring back when lightly touched.

Step 6 — Cool and Prepare Topping

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl. In another bowl, mix ½ cup granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon.

Step 7 — Apply the Coating

Once the cake is completely cool, brush the entire surface with melted butter. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over all sides, pressing gently to help it adhere.

For best results, apply the coating just before serving to maintain the signature Apple Cider Donut Cake texture.

Step 8 — Serve and Store

Slice and serve your Apple Cider Donut Cake at room temperature. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutritional Information

Calories	320
Protein	4g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	14g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	280mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Whole wheat pastry flour — Adds fiber while maintaining a tender crumb similar to traditional Apple Cider Donut Cake.
• Unsweetened applesauce — Replaces some oil for moisture with natural sweetness and fewer calories.
• Almond or coconut flour — Creates a gluten-free, lower-carb version with a nutty flavor profile.
• Greek yogurt — Swaps for sour cream to boost protein while keeping the cake moist and tangy.
• Coconut sugar or monk fruit — Lowers glycemic impact while providing caramel-like sweetness.
• Oat or almond milk — Dairy-free alternative that maintains the liquid balance without compromising flavor.
• Reduced cinnamon sugar coating — Cuts sugar and sodium while still delivering that classic spiced donut taste.
• Flax or chia egg — Vegan binding option that works well with the warm spices in this cake.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair warm slices of Apple Cider Donut Cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
• Serve alongside a hot mug of spiced apple cider or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy autumn breakfast or brunch.
• Dust the top with cinnamon sugar just before serving to enhance the traditional donut flavor and appearance.
• Offer with a side of caramel or bourbon-spiked whipped cream for an elegant twist on this comforting cake.
• Cut into individual portions and pack for picnics or fall outings—this Apple Cider Donut Cake travels well.
• Garnish each plate with thin apple slices or a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added texture and visual appeal.

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is wonderfully versatile—enjoy it as a simple snack, a dressed-up dessert, or a highlight at your next seasonal gathering.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using fresh, un-reduced apple cider. Fix: Simmer cider to a syrup first; this concentrates flavor without making the batter wet.
• Mistake: Overmixing the batter until it’s tough. Fix: Gently fold dry ingredients in just until combined for a tender crumb.
• Mistake: Skipping the cinnamon-sugar coating while the cake is warm. Fix: Brush melted butter on the warm cake so the spiced sugar adheres perfectly.
• Mistake: Baking in a pan that’s not properly prepared. Fix: Generously grease and flour your Bundt pan to ensure a clean release every time.
• Mistake: Substituting apple juice for cider. Fix: Use only real, unfiltered apple cider for its robust, spiced apple flavor.
• Mistake: Undercooking the center because the top looks done. Fix: Always test with a skewer; it should come out clean for a fully baked cake.
• Mistake: Adding too much flour by scooping directly from the bag. Fix: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off for accuracy.
• Mistake: Rushing the cooling process before glazing. Fix: Let the Apple Cider Donut Cake cool for 10-15 minutes so the glaze doesn’t melt off.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag; freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Warm slices in a 300°F oven for 10–12 minutes, or microwave briefly until heated through.

Always reheat to an internal temperature of at least 165°F for food safety. For best texture, serve the Apple Cider Donut Cake at room temperature or warm.

Conclusion

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is the perfect way to enjoy the cozy flavors of fall. We hope you love this simple, delicious recipe as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments. Don’t forget to subscribe for more seasonal treats like our Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars Recipe and Fun and Festive Spiral Halloween Cookies Recipe.

Print

FAQs

Can I make this Apple Cider Donut Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake this Apple Cider Donut Cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its moist texture. The flavors often deepen, making it even more delicious.

How can I make sure my Apple Cider Donut Cake is moist?

Use reduced apple cider for intense flavor and moisture. Do not overmix the batter, and check for doneness a few minutes before the timer goes off. This ensures your Apple Cider Donut Cake stays perfectly tender.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

You can use a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour if needed. For a dairy-free version, replace the buttermilk with an equal amount of non-dairy milk mixed with a little vinegar. These swaps help customize your Apple Cider Donut Cake while keeping it tasty.