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As the crisp fall air embraces our surroundings and the leaves begin their vibrant transformation, it’s the perfect time to indulge in the flavors of the season. This Apple Cider Donut Cake takes all the best elements of autumn and wraps them in a delightful bundt cake. Picture yourself savoring each slice, where warm spices dance with the tangy richness of fresh apple cider.

Inspired by the beloved autumn staple of apple cider donuts, this cake adds an unforgettable twist with a crunchy cinnamon sugar topping and a luscious cider glaze that brings everything together. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, this moist and fluffy creation is sure to transport you to a sun-kissed orchard. Set aside your usual desserts and experience the joy of baking this seasonal favorite—it’s a hug in cake form, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

Why is Apple Cider Cake a Fall Must?

Fall Flavors: This apple cider donut cake is infused with the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a cozy aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes.
Unique Twist: Enjoy the nostalgia of apple cider donuts but in a delightful bundt cake form, making it perfect for gatherings.
Crunchy Topping: The sweet cider glaze and cinnamon sugar crust provide a satisfying texture that elevates each bite.
Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you can whip this up even when you’re short on time.
Crowd-Pleaser: Family and friends will rave about this seasonal delight, making it ideal for any autumn celebration.

Apple Cider Donut Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
Baking Powder – Works as a leavening agent to help the cake rise.
Salt – Enhances flavor balance, ensuring every bite is delightful.
Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; adjust quantities to match your taste preferences.
Nutmeg – Infuses the cake with aromatic flavor; substitute with allspice if needed.
Unsalted Butter – Contributes moisture and richness; margarine can be used as a substitute.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor; swap with coconut sugar for a refined alternative.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and aids in browning, giving it a lovely golden color.
Eggs – Binds ingredients together; use applesauce as an egg-free option.
Vanilla Extract – Offers an aromatic flavor; pure vanilla is preferred for the best taste.
Apple Cider – Imparts the signature flavor to this apple cider cake; avoid substitutes like vinegar or apple juice.

For the Coating

Apple Cider – Reduces into a glaze that soaks the cake, intensifying the cider flavor.
Salted Butter – Adds creaminess to the glaze; unsalted butter can work, just add a pinch of salt.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the glaze, balancing the tartness of the cider.
Demerara or Turbinado Sugar – Provides a delightful crunchy texture; substitute with regular granulated sugar if needed.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12-cup bundt pan thoroughly. This step ensures your cake slides out effortlessly after baking, creating that perfect presentation.
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a large bowl. Mix until fully combined, which will help to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the cake.
Cream the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar using a stand mixer on medium speed for about 3-5 minutes until it’s light and fluffy. This step is key to achieving a moist, airy texture in your cake!
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, combine in the vanilla extract and alternate adding the dry mixture and apple cider. Mix until just blended, being careful not to overmix!
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean. After baking, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Reduce the apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat until it thickens to about ⅓ cup, then stir in the salted butter to create a luscious glaze. This will enhance the cider flavor and create a beautiful sheen.
Brush the warm cider mixture generously over the cake using a pastry brush, making sure to cover it thoroughly. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top while it’s still warm for a delightful crunch.
Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, allowing everyone to enjoy those cozy fall flavors to the fullest!

Optional: Dust with additional cinnamon sugar for an extra pop of sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Apple Cider Cake Variations

Get ready to personalize your delightful cake experience!

Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delicious crunch that complements the moist cake beautifully.
Dried Fruits: Incorporate plump raisins or tart cranberries for a burst of flavor and chewiness in each slice.
Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier, nutritious twist that still yields a tender crumb. It can add a sympathetic nutty flavor, embracing the fall vibe.
Spiced Version: Enhance the spiciness by adding a dash of cloves or ginger to the batter for an aromatic kick that warms the soul.
Maple Syrup: Swap brown sugar with pure maple syrup for a fragrant sweetness that infuses the cake with a lovely depth of flavor.
Zest: Grate in some orange or lemon zest to brighten the flavors, providing a refreshing twist that lifts the cake’s profile.
Frosting Variation: Top with cream cheese frosting instead of a glaze for a tangy finish that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Vegan Option: Use flax eggs in place of regular eggs along with plant-based butter for a tasty vegan version that everyone can enjoy!

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the eggs and butter, are at room temperature to achieve a perfectly fluffy apple cider cake.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Keep that texture light and airy for the best results!
Use Fresh Cider: For the most authentic flavor, use fresh apple cider rather than bottled. This will enhance the cake’s moisture and richness.
Cool Correctly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for the recommended time before inverting. This helps prevent breakage and maintains the cake’s lovely shape.
Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, wrap the cake in plastic wrap to keep it moist. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Make Ahead Options

Making the Apple Cider Donut Cake ahead of time is a great way to save precious moments for busy weeknights! You can prepare the cake batter a day in advance—simply mix all the ingredients together and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, pour the chilled batter into your greased bundt pan and increase the baking time by a few minutes if it’s still cold. Additionally, you can make the glaze by reducing the apple cider and storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. When it’s time to enjoy, reheat the cider glaze slightly before brushing it onto the cake. Trust me, this makes it just as delicious and flavorful as when freshly made, giving you a cozy treat with minimal effort!

What to Serve with Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Indulging in this comforting cake creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for an autumn gathering.

Warm Apple Cider: This classic pairing intensifies the apple flavors, making for a warm and inviting drink experience.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully on a warm slice, adding rich creaminess to complement the spices.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: A fun twist, serving mini cinnamon sugar donuts alongside captures the nostalgic essence of fall treats.
Maple Caramel Sauce: Drizzle maple caramel on top for a sweet touch that ties in beautifully with the cake’s warm flavors.
Pecan Pie Bars: The nutty crunch of pecan pie bars introduces a different texture while enhancing the autumnal fare.
Fresh Pear Slices: Juicy slices of fresh pear offer a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, creating a balanced dessert spread.
Chai Tea: A warm cup of spiced chai tea brings in comforting spices, enhancing the overall flavor experience of your fall dessert table.
Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheddar and creamy brie will contrast nicely, providing a savory option to round out your meal.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Donut Cake

Room Temperature: Wrap the cooled apple cider cake tightly in plastic wrap. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the wrapped cake. It will last for about a week, but may dry out slightly.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake without the glaze for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic, then foil, to protect against freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of apple cider should I use for the cake?
Absolutely, using fresh apple cider is key for this apple cider donut cake. It significantly enhances the flavor and moisture of the cake. Avoid using bottled apple juice or vinegar, as they won’t provide the same rich, tangy profile that fresh cider adds.

How should I store the Apple Cider Donut Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap after it has completely cooled. You can store it at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer shelf life, refrigerate it for about a week, although it may dry out a bit—so I recommend enjoying it at room temperature instead.

Can I freeze the Apple Cider Donut Cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake! To do so, make sure it is completely cooled and without the glaze. Wrap the cake well in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. When done correctly, it can last up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 10 minutes.

What should I do if my cake turns out dense?
If you find your cake is denser than expected, it could be due to overmixing the batter. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined and ensure your butter is at room temperature to incorporate air properly. Furthermore, make sure you’re using the correct measurements, particularly for flour, as too much can weigh down the cake.

Can I make this recipe egg-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the eggs with unsweetened applesauce. Use about 1/4 cup of applesauce for each egg in the recipe. This alternative will help bind the ingredients together while maintaining moisture in the cake.

What are some good toppings or variations I can add?
There’s a world of possibilities! You can enhance the texture by adding chopped nuts like pecans, or for a fruity twist, incorporate dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries. If you’re looking for a more nutritious option, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Enjoy experimenting with your unique touches!