Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe

If you love the cozy, spicy flavors of fall baked goods, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe. It captures all the warm, cinnamon-scented goodness of an apple cider donut but in a comforting, moist bundt cake form that’s perfect for sharing. The combination of apple cider, sweetened applesauce, and buttery cinnamon sugar topping creates a symphony of flavors and textures that feels like a hug with every bite. Trust me, this cake is an irresistible way to bring the spirit of the season right into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started on this Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe is delightfully simple with just a handful of ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building its unforgettable flavor and tender crumb. From the apple cider for that fresh, fruity zing to the cinnamon sugar topping that gives it just the right amount of spice and sweetness, every ingredient pulls its weight.

• Yellow cake mix: The base for this cake, ensuring a light and fluffy texture with minimal effort.
• Apple cider: Adds natural sweetness and subtle apple flavor while keeping the cake moist.
• Sweetened applesauce: Enhances moisture and contributes to the tender crumb and sweetness.
• Large eggs: Essential for structure and richness in the cake.
• Melted butter: Brings in a depth of buttery flavor and moistness.
• Brown sugar: Introduces a caramel-like sweetness that pairs beautifully with apple.
• Vanilla extract: Balances all the flavors with its warm aromatic notes.
• Butter (for topping): Acts as the glue for the cinnamon-sugar coating, adding richness on the cake’s surface.
• Sugar (for topping): Creates that classic sugary crunch that makes apple cider donuts so addictive.
• Cinnamon (for topping): The magic spice that gives the cake its signature warmth and aroma.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by warming your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. A properly preheated oven is vital for even baking and that perfect golden crust on your donut cake.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Grab a large mixing bowl and, using a hand mixer on low speed, gently blend the yellow cake mix with apple cider, sweetened applesauce, eggs, and melted butter. This mixture forms the flavorful batter that’s moist and tender, infused with fresh apple notes and buttery goodness.

Step 3: Add Brown Sugar and Vanilla

Next, stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract. These ingredients lift the flavor profile, adding a lovely richness and subtle sweetness that complements the apple perfectly. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Prepare Your Bundt Pan

To ensure your cake comes out flawlessly, liberally grease and flour a 10 or 12-cup bundt pan. This step helps to prevent any sticking and promotes even baking, setting the stage for a stunning shape that mimics a giant donut.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and place it into the oven. Bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The wait is worth it as you’ll achieve a moist, fluffy cake with a beautiful crust.

Step 6: Cool Slightly

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool on a rack for about 15 minutes. This resting period allows the cake to set and makes it easier to handle without breaking.

Step 7: Unmold Your Cake

Carefully flip the bundt pan over onto a cooling rack or parchment paper. This reveals your gorgeous, donut-shaped cake ready for the finishing touch — the classic cinnamon sugar topping.

Step 8: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

While the cake cools, mix cinnamon and sugar in a small bowl. This simple, fragrant blend is the hallmark of the Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe and will transform the cake’s surface into a sweet-spiced delight.

Step 9: Add the Finishing Touch

Brush the cake generously with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over the top and sides. This step creates a sticky, sweet crust reminiscent of your favorite apple cider donuts, providing that irresistible crunch and warm spice on every bite.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For an elegant presentation, dust your cake lightly with powdered sugar or add a few thin slices of fresh apples around the serving plate. A drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate the flavor, complementing the apple and cinnamon beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the spices and sweetness. A hot cup of spiced chai tea or freshly brewed coffee also makes an excellent companion, enhancing the cozy experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the cake into donut-shaped wedges and serving it as a fun breakfast treat or brunch centerpiece. You can even cut it into mini portions and serve alongside warm mulled apple cider for a festive gathering sensation. Wrapping individual slices in parchment paper makes for a charming homemade gift too!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe covered tightly at room temperature for up to two days to maintain its moistness and fresh flavor. For longer storage, refrigeration is recommended, wrapping the cake well to prevent drying out.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then with foil to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.

Reheating

To bring back that just-baked warmth, gently warm slices in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or place in a 300°F oven for about 10 minutes. This revives the buttered topping and makes each bite taste fresh again.

FAQs

Can I use homemade apple cider for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade apple cider will add a lovely fresh fruit flavor that enhances the cake’s natural apple essence. Just make sure it’s strained to avoid any pulp.

Can I substitute applesauce with something else?

Yes. Unsweetened applesauce is best for moisture, but if you don’t have it, you can try pumpkin puree or mashed banana, though the flavor will shift slightly.

Is the cake gluten-free?

The recipe calls for a boxed yellow cake mix, which is typically not gluten-free unless specified. To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake mix blend that matches the moisture requirements.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, by using a dairy-free cake mix or making your own cake batter from scratch, substituting melted butter with a plant-based alternative, and ensuring toppings are dairy-free, you can create a delicious dairy-free version.

How long does the cake stay fresh?

When stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, the Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe stays fresh for about two days. Refrigeration can extend freshness by a couple more days but may dry the cake slightly without wrapping.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe is a joyful celebration of fall flavors that anyone can make and share with loved ones. Its tender texture, warm spices, and sweet apple notes make it an instant favorite in my kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it, fill your home with the inviting aroma, and enjoy every comforting bite.

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