Name: Irresistibly Moist Apple Cider Cake for Cozy Fall Days
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute with gluten-free flour if desired.); 1 tablespoon baking powder (Ensure it's fresh for the best rise.); 1 teaspoon salt (Essential for flavor enhancement.); 1 teaspoon cinnamon (Can substitute with pumpkin pie spice.); 1 teaspoon nutmeg (Freshly ground is preferable.); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (Dairy-free alternatives include coconut oil or margarine.); 1 cup brown sugar (Both light and dark work well.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Reduce if you prefer less sweetness.); 2 large eggs (Use room temperature for better mixing.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Use pure vanilla for optimal flavor.); 1 cup apple cider (This is the key ingredient for flavor.); 1/2 cup apple cider (Reduce to enhance flavor and consistency.); 1/4 cup cinnamon sugar mixture (Mix sugar and cinnamon for topping.)

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As the crisp air of autumn settles in, I find myself in a delightful kitchen experiment—one that transforms the essence of fall into a delicious treat. Enter Apple Cider Donut Cake, a warm, inviting bundt cake that captures the nostalgic flavors of countless trips to cider mills. This easy recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a lovely way to bring a little homemade comfort to your table, perfect for cozy gatherings and Thanksgiving celebrations. With a sweet cider glaze and a crunchy cinnamon sugar coating, you’ll enjoy the moist texture reminiscent of your favorite cake donuts. Ready to indulge in this autumnal delight? Your taste buds will thank you!

Why is this cake a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: This Apple Cider Donut Cake brings the warmth of fall right into your home, combining the sweetness of apple cider with aromatic spices for a comforting treat.

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone—whether a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie—can whip this up in no time!

Perfect for Gatherings: It’s great for family gatherings or holiday celebrations, often becoming the star of the dessert table alongside dishes like Moist Strawberry Shortcake or Black Velvet Cake.

Versatile Enjoyment: Savor it warm for breakfast, or elevate it with a scoop of ice cream for dessert.

Time-Saving: This bundt cake is not only quick to prepare, but can also be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other holiday preparations. Enjoy the delightful experience of homemade goodness in every bite!

Apple Cider Donut Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – Provides the cake’s structure; feel free to substitute with gluten-free flour if desired.
• Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for lightness; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors; don’t skip this essential ingredient.
• Cinnamon – Adds warm, aromatic notes; can be swapped with pumpkin pie spice for a different flavor twist.
• Nutmeg – Contributes a depth of flavor; fresh ground nutmeg elevates the overall taste.
• Unsalted butter – Infuses richness and moisture; coconut oil or margarine can serve as dairy-free alternatives.
• Brown sugar – Offers moisture and a deep sweetness; both light and dark brown sugar work well.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake; consider reducing a bit if you prefer it less sweet.
• Eggs – Provide moisture and binding; ensure they’re at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Vanilla extract – Adds complexity to the flavor; use pure vanilla for the best taste.
• Apple cider – The star ingredient that gives the cake its signature flavor; apple juice can be used in a pinch.

For the Glaze
• Apple cider – Required for a sweet, thick glaze; reduces to enhance its flavor and consistency.
• Cinnamon sugar mixture – A delightful combination of sugar and cinnamon for a crunchy topping; sprinkle generously before serving.

This scrumptious Apple Cider Donut Cake will surely win hearts and enhance your fall gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, grease a 12-cup bundt pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray, ensuring every nook is covered to prevent sticking. This will help achieve that beautiful, easy release when your Apple Cider Donut Cake is done baking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Blend these dry ingredients until they’re evenly mixed. This step is crucial for ensuring that your cake rises beautifully and is flavored throughout. Set the bowl aside as you move on to the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Cream these together on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air and helps create a moist and tender Apple Cider Donut Cake, enhancing its overall texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in the vanilla extract, stirring until everything is combined into a smooth batter. This step not only adds richness but also enhances the flavor profile of your cake.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the apple cider. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing gently until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser cake. Your batter should be thick, yet smooth and well-combined for the perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake taste.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40–50 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready. Your kitchen will soon be filled with a warm autumn aroma!

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze and Coating
While the cake bakes, reduce some apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until it thickens slightly, about 10 minutes. In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar with cinnamon for your topping. Once the cake is out of the oven, brush the warm cake with the reduced apple cider glaze and sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the Apple Cider Donut Cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a plate, gently loosening the edges with a plastic knife if needed. Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful flavors of fall with every lovely slice!

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cake

Measure Accurately: Spoon and level the flour to avoid a dense cake. Too much flour can lead to an undesired texture in your apple cider cake.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for easy blending. This helps create a light and fluffy batter.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to maintain the cake’s softness. Overmixing can result in a chewier texture instead of tender.
Check For Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. Avoid opening the oven too early to keep the heat consistent.
Cooling Time: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting. This helps prevent breakage and sticking, ensuring a beautiful presentation.
Storage Tip: Wrap leftover cake tightly and store at room temperature for up to 5 days. Enjoy slices warmed briefly in the microwave to bring back that fresh-baked taste.

Apple Cider Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe and add your own twist to make it even more irresistible!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a delicious, gluten-free version.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a non-dairy butter substitute instead of unsalted butter to enjoy a dairy-free cake without sacrificing flavor.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a delightful crunch and added texture.
Spiced Up: Swap apple cider with spiced apple juice for an extra layer of flavor that evokes the warmth of fall.
Fruitful Delight: Add diced fresh apples to the batter for pockets of delicious fruitiness, contributing to the overall moistness of the cake.
Maple Glaze: For a unique twist, mix powdered sugar with maple syrup to create a sweet glaze that beautifully complements the cake.
Heat Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or ground ginger to the dry ingredients for a subtle spicy kick that heightens the autumn experience.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate on top of the cooled cake for a decadent finish that adds a rich flavor contrast.

Embrace these variations to make this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake your very own, and don’t forget to pair it with a glass of cold apple cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat! If you love exploring diverse flavors in your desserts, be sure to check out other family favorites like Blueberry Coffee Cake or indulge in the beloved Oreo Cake Pops for more delightful inspirations.

Make Ahead Options

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing it in the fridge. Just be sure to cover it tightly to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can bake the cake, let it cool completely, and store it wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. To serve, simply brush the warm cake with the glaze and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar right before indulging. This way, you’ll enjoy all the delightful flavors of the Apple Cider Donut Cake with minimal effort when you’re ready to serve it!

What to Serve with Homemade Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pair your delightful cake with a few delicious accompaniments that enhance its warm flavors.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream contrasts the moist cake, adding a cool, sweet touch that’ll delight your taste buds.
Warm Apple Cider: A glass of steaming spiced apple cider echoes the cake’s flavors, creating a cozy, comforting experience perfect for fall.
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a luscious layer, balancing the cake’s sweetness and enhancing its flavors with a touch of elegance.
Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a thin layer of tangy cream cheese frosting over each slice for a richer, more decadent treat that perfectly complements the cake’s spice notes.
Candied Pecans: Crunchy candied pecans add a satisfying texture and a sweet, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the apple cider notes in the cake.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This warm drink, with its rich flavors, serves as a delightful complement to the cake, making for a nostalgic and emotionally warm embrace of autumn.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the slices enhances their sweetness, creating an indulgent combination that takes your cake experience to another level.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Cake

Room Temperature: Keep leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Enjoy slices warmed slightly in the microwave for a fresh, comforting taste.

Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the unglazed Apple Cider Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the fridge overnight before adding the glaze.

Reheating: To revive the cake, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through. This brings back the delightful flavors and moist texture.

Glaze Addition: If you freeze the cake, remember to add the sweet cider glaze after thawing for the best taste and presentation.

Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe apples for the apple cider?
Absolutely! When selecting apples for homemade apple cider, look for ones that are firm and free of blemishes or dark spots. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji are perfect due to their balance of sweetness and tartness. Ideally, choose fresh apples from a local market or an orchard during the peak fall season for the best flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake?
The more the merrier! Wrap any leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This will help it stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it for longer, consider freezing it for up to 3 months!

Can I freeze the Apple Cider Donut Cake? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Apple Cider Donut Cake, let it cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

What should I do if my cake turns out too dense?
Oh no! A dense cake can be disappointing, but there are ways to troubleshoot. First, double-check your measuring techniques, as too much flour can lead to density. Make sure to spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Mixing the batter too much can also create a tough cake, so mix until just combined. For future bakes, consider sifting the flour for added lightness!

Can my pets have a piece of this cake?
Very important to note! While the aromas of apple cider cake are tempting, it’s best to keep this treat away from pets. The cake contains sugar and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg that can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always be cautious about sharing your baked goods with furry friends!

Are there any substitutions I can make for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! If you or someone you’re serving has dietary restrictions, there are plenty of easy swaps. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the cake. If you’re after a dairy-free substitute, swap the unsalted butter for coconut oil or margarine. You can also replace eggs with flaxseed meal or unsweetened applesauce for a vegan version—just use 1 tablespoon of ground flax mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water per egg and let it sit for a few minutes before combining with other ingredients.