Apple Cider Donut Cake

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that wraps you in the warmth of fall, you’ve come to the right place! This Apple Cider Donut Cake is not just a cake; it’s a delightful experience that brings back memories of crisp autumn days and the sweet scent of cinnamon wafting through the air. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special or for family gatherings where everyone can gather around and enjoy a slice together.

What makes this recipe truly special is its beautiful bundt shape and the delicious apple cider glaze that adds a touch of sweetness to each bite. Whether you serve it warm from the oven or at room temperature, this cake is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With easy-to-follow steps, this cake comes together quickly, making it perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Delicious flavor: The warm spices combined with apple cider create a comforting taste that everyone will love.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this sweet treat, making it an ideal choice for gatherings.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a weekend treat, this cake fits right in!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it in advance and store it; it stays delicious for days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make our Apple Cider Donut Cake! You probably have most of these staples in your kitchen already.

For the Cake

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• 1 ¼ teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 ½ sticks (20 Tablespoons, 1 ¼ cups) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 4 eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple cider

For the Glaze

• 2 cups apple cider
• 2 Tablespoons salted butter
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 2 Tablespoons demerara or turbinado sugar
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your own twists.

• Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can give your cake a delightful crunch.
• Incorporate fruits: Diced apples or pears mixed into the batter enhance the fruity flavor even more!
• Spice it up: Swap out some cinnamon for pumpkin spice or ginger to change things up.
• Gluten-free option: Use a gluten-free flour blend if you need to accommodate dietary restrictions.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Greasing your bundt pan with Baker’s Joy or another non-stick spray ensures that your cake releases beautifully after baking. This step is crucial because no one likes to see their masterpiece stick to the pan!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour so that your cake rises perfectly. Set aside while you whip up the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In your stand mixer bowl, beat together the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed until light and fluffy—about 3-5 minutes. Scraping down the sides helps incorporate all ingredients thoroughly. This airy mixture creates a lovely texture in your cake!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in eggs one at a time while beating well after each addition. Mixing in vanilla extract next adds depth to our flavors. Remember: patience here pays off!

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually mix in your reserved flour mixture in three additions while keeping the mixer on low speed. Slowly stream in the apple cider as well—this keeps everything moist and ensures that you don’t overmix!

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan and bake for about 40-50 minutes until golden brown. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about ten minutes before turning it out onto a plate—this makes serving easier!

Step 7: Make Your Glaze

As your cake bakes, bring two cups of apple cider to boil over high heat in a small saucepan. Lower heat after boiling and stir occasionally until reduced to about ⅓ cup—this concentrates its sweetness! Stir in butter until melted.

Step 8: Finish with Cinnamon Sugar

Whisk together granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl. While your cake is still warm, brush on that delicious cider reduction generously! Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar on top while pressing gently into sides so every bite is tasty.

Now you’re ready! Serve warm or at room temperature – enjoy every delicious slice of your Apple Cider Donut Cake!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donut Cake

Baking this Apple Cider Donut Cake can be a delightful experience, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure it turns out perfect every time!

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure your flour. This prevents adding too much flour, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smooth batter that traps air and gives your cake a light texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher cake instead of a tender one.
• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens vary, so start checking your cake around the 40-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center.
• Let It Cool Before Inverting: Allowing the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before inverting helps it retain its shape and prevents sticking.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Presenting your Apple Cider Donut Cake beautifully can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dessert:

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overwhelming the flavors.
• Cinnamon Sticks: Place a few cinnamon sticks beside the cake for decoration and an extra hint of warmth and spice.
• Fresh Apple Slices: Serve with thin slices of fresh apples, which not only enhance presentation but also complement the apple cider flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a lovely contrast to the spiced flavors of the cake, making each bite even more indulgent.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over slices adds richness and sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the apple cider notes.
• Chai Tea: Serve slices of cake alongside a steaming cup of chai tea for a cozy pairing that enhances the cinnamon and spice profile.
• Roasted Nuts: A small bowl of roasted walnuts or pecans provides a crunchy texture that complements the softness of the cake perfectly.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, I hope you enjoy baking—and sharing—this comforting Apple Cider Donut Cake! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a sweet treat throughout the week or for special occasions. With just a few simple storage steps, you can keep this cake fresh and delicious!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate the cake to extend its freshness, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

• To gently warm slices of cake, microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, wrapped in foil to keep it moist.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Can I use different types of apple cider for the Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Absolutely! You can use either regular apple cider or spiced apple cider based on your preference. Just make sure it’s non-alcoholic.

How should I store my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Store your Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Can I substitute ingredients in the Apple Cider Donut Cake recipe?

Yes! You can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter and use alternative sweeteners if desired. Just ensure the texture remains similar.

Is this Apple Cider Donut Cake suitable for gatherings?

Definitely! This cake is perfect for sharing at gatherings, fall festivals, or holiday celebrations. Its warm spices and sweet glaze will impress everyone!

What makes this Apple Cider Donut Cake special?

This cake combines the nostalgic flavors of fall with a moist bundt texture and a delightful glaze that captures all the essence of apple cider donuts.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Cider Donut Cake as much as I do! It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of autumn flavors that brings warmth and happiness to any gathering. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with friends and family—you just might inspire someone else to whip up their own batch!