There’s something magical about the smell of apple cider donuts wafting through the air, isn’t there? Picture this: you stroll into a cozy autumn market, where the crispness of fall dances with the warm aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg. Apple Cider Donut Cake captures that delightful experience in every bite, blending soft, moist cake with flavors that sing of orchards and harvest days. double chocolate pumpkin swirl cookies pumpkin sugar cookies Just imagine savoring this treat while wrapped in your favorite sweater, sipping on hot cider, and feeling like you’ve been transported to a charming pumpkin patch.
Now, I have a confession to make. My obsession with this cake began during a family trip to an apple orchard. As we munched on freshly fried donuts coated in sugar, my taste buds were awakened! I knew I had to recreate that bliss at home. This Apple Cider Donut Cake is perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in – it’s like a hug from your oven. The anticipation builds as it bakes, filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma that draws everyone in like moths to a flame.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Apple Cider Donut Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy bakers.
- Each slice offers a delightful flavor explosion with notes of warm spices and sweet apples.
- The beautiful golden-brown crust makes it visually stunning and totally Instagram-worthy.
- Versatile enough for breakfast or dessert, this cake suits any occasion perfectly!
Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Cake
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure; sifted flour ensures your cake is light and fluffy.
- Baking Powder: This helps the cake rise beautifully; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
- Cinnamon: A warm spice that adds cozy flavor; adjust based on how much spice you love.
- Nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances the autumnal essence; freshly grated nutmeg will intensify the flavor.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly; don’t skimp on it because we want deliciousness!
- Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and depth; light or dark brown sugar works wonderfully here.
- Apple Cider: The star of our show! Use fresh cider for an authentic taste that sings fall.
- Eggs: These help bind the ingredients together; use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash brings out all those wonderful flavors; pure vanilla is always best!
- Butter: Melted butter adds richness; use unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a bundt pan with baking spray or butter it well—trust me, you’ll thank me later when you flip it over!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until everything’s combined. It’s like creating your own little spice wonderland!
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix together apple cider, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until well blended. delicious apple butter cookies You want everything smooth as silk—no lumps allowed!
Step 4: Bring It Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together until just combined. Don’t overmix! We want tenderness here—like that first hug after being away.
Step 5: Bake Away
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell like autumn magic!
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Let it cool in the pan for about ten minutes before flipping it onto a wire rack. Drizzle some more apple cider on top if you’re feeling fancy! Slice up this beauty and serve it warm—everyone will be begging for seconds.
There you go! Your very own Apple Cider Donut Cake awaits—perfectly spiced and utterly scrumptious! Enjoy each bite as if you’re back at that magical orchard surrounded by fall foliage.
You Must Know
- This delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake is not just a sweet treat; it brings the cozy vibes of fall right to your kitchen.
- Easy to make and bursting with flavor, it’s perfect for sharing or savoring solo with a cup of coffee.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven and greasing your cake pan. Mix the dry ingredients first, then blend in the wet ones until smooth. Finally, pour the batter into the pan and bake until golden brown for that perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Apple Cider Donut Cake! Swap in different spices like nutmeg or add chopped nuts for extra crunch. You can even drizzle with caramel or top with a glaze for a sweet twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds—just enough to warm it up without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to use fresh apple cider for maximum flavor; it makes a world of difference.
- Avoid overmixing your batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Cool completely before glazing or frosting for better adherence.
I remember the first time I made this Apple Cider Donut Cake; my friends devoured it in minutes and begged for the recipe, claiming it was “the best thing since sliced bread.” It’s now a staple at every gathering! lemon poppyseed cupcakes. For more inspiration, check out this Lemon Poppy Seed Cake recipe.
FAQs :
What is an Apple Cider Donut Cake?
An Apple Cider Donut Cake combines the rich flavors of apple cider and spices, reminiscent of traditional apple cider donuts. This cake offers a moist, tender crumb and a delightful sweetness that makes it perfect for fall gatherings or cozy family dinners. You can enjoy it plain or topped with a light glaze to enhance its flavor. This cake is often made with cinnamon and nutmeg, providing that warm, comforting taste we all love during autumn.
How do you store Apple Cider Donut Cake?
To keep your Apple Cider Donut Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its shelf life up to one week. For even longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I use fresh apples in my Apple Cider Donut Cake?
Yes, you can use fresh apples in your Apple Cider Donut Cake! Chopped or grated apples add moisture and flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the cake. Just be sure to adjust the amount of liquid in your recipe if using fresh apples to maintain the right consistency. Popular apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well due to their balance of sweetness and tartness. For more inspiration, check out this Hot Honey Chicken recipe.
What makes this cake different from regular cakes?
The unique flavor of an Apple Cider Donut Cake comes from the addition of apple cider and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Unlike traditional cakes that may rely on vanilla or chocolate flavors, this cake embodies the essence of fall with every bite. Its moist texture resembles that of a donut rather than typical cake, making it a delightful treat for those who love seasonal flavors.
Conclusion for Apple Cider Donut Cake :
In summary, the Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of autumn with its warm spices and rich apple flavor. Easy to prepare and versatile in storage options, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed plain or glazed, it’s sure to impress your family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it might just become your new favorite seasonal treat!
Apple Cider Donut Cake
Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful fall dessert that encapsulates the warm, cozy flavors of apple cider donuts in cake form. This moist and spiced cake is infused with fresh apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg, making it ideal for autumn gatherings or as a sweet treat enjoyed with a warm beverage. Easy to make and beautifully golden-brown, this cake is sure to become a seasonal favorite for everyone.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 cup fresh apple cider
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until combined.
- In another bowl, mix apple cider, eggs, vanilla extract, and melted butter until smooth.
- Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for ten minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg




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