Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful treat that brings the cozy flavors of fall right to your table. This moist, spiced bundt cake is inspired by the classic apple cider donuts, infused with reduced apple cider, warm cinnamon, and nutmeg. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet afternoon snack, this cake captures the essence of autumn with each bite. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious fall dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donut Cake

This apple cider donut cake is not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Here are a few reasons to fall in love with it:

• Moist Texture: The reduced apple cider adds incredible moisture, making it a moist apple cider cake that stays fresh for days.
• Warm Spices: Infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, this cake is a celebration of fall flavors.
• Versatile Serving: Enjoy it plain, topped with a glaze, or served with whipped cream for a delightful treat.
• Family Favorite: It’s a hit for both kids and adults, making it a perfect dessert for family gatherings.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, this easy apple cider donut cake recipe is budget-friendly.
• Beautiful Presentation: The bundt shape makes it visually appealing, perfect for special occasions.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Gather these items:

• 2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1 cup)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: 1 tbsp sour cream or applesauce (for extra moisture)
• Optional topping: 1/4 cup melted butter + 1/2 cup cinnamon-sugar mixture or cider glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp reduced cider)

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-cup bundt pan.
2. Step 2: Pour 2 cups of apple cider into a saucepan and simmer until reduced to about 1 cup. Let cool.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
4. Step 4: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla extract and cooled cider reduction.
5. Step 5: In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Step 6: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, alternating with cider or buttermilk if needed. Mix until just combined.
7. Step 7: Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Step 8: Cool for 10 minutes in pan, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Step 9: Brush with melted butter and coat with cinnamon-sugar mixture or drizzle with cider glaze before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

Keep these in mind:

• For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of regular butter.
• This cake pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Consider adding a crumb topping for an extra layer of texture.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

• Top with a simple cider glaze for added sweetness.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
• Pair with coffee or hot cider for an afternoon treat.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cider Donut Cake

This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For meal prep, you can also freeze slices in a tight container for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Donut Cake

What’s the secret to perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake?

The secret lies in reducing the apple cider; this concentrates the flavor and adds moisture to the cake, making it truly special.

Can I make Apple Cider Donut Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can make it a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh, and it will taste great the next day.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Be sure to measure your flour correctly and avoid overmixing the batter. This will ensure a light and fluffy texture.

Variations of Apple Cider Donut Cake You Can Try

Get creative with these variations:

• Incorporate chopped apples or nuts for added texture.
• Substitute the spices with your favorite fall flavors, like ginger or allspice.
• Add a crumb topping for a delightful crunch.
• Try a vegan version using flax eggs and plant-based butter.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Easy Cinnamon Rolls or Apple Pie. If you’re interested in more baking tips, visit The Joy of Vegetable Gardening.

Delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe: 12 Servings

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This Apple Cider Donut Cake is a moist, spiced bundt cake inspired by classic apple cider donuts. It’s infused with reduced apple cider, warm cinnamon, and nutmeg.

• Author: Robert
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1 cup)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: 1 tbsp sour cream or applesauce (for extra moisture)
• Optional topping: 1/4 cup melted butter + 1/2 cup cinnamon-sugar mixture or cider glaze (1 cup powdered sugar + 2 tbsp reduced cider)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-cup bundt pan.
2. Pour 2 cups of apple cider into a saucepan and simmer until reduced to about 1 cup. Let cool.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in vanilla extract and cooled cider reduction.
5. In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, alternating with cider or buttermilk if needed. Mix until just combined.
7. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. Cool for 10 minutes in pan, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Brush with melted butter and coat with cinnamon-sugar mixture or drizzle with cider glaze before serving.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, use brown butter instead of regular butter.
• This cake pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 20g
• Sodium: 180mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 70mg