Name: Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour; 2 tsp (5 g) ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp (1 g) nutmeg; 1 tsp (5.6 g) salt; 1 1/2 tbsp (21 g) baking powder; 1 1/2 cups (300 g) granulated sugar; 1/2 cup (110 g) brown sugar; 1 cup (224 g) vegetable oil; 3 eggs, at room temperature; 1 cup (250 g) unsweetened applesauce, at room temperature; 1 cup (248 g) apple cider juice (not vinegar), at room temperature; 1 tsp (5.6 g) vanilla extract; 1/4 cup (56 g) unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar; 2 tsp (5 g) cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 89 reviews

There is something utterly magical about a warm slice of apple-spiced cake, especially when it carries that beloved cinnamon sugar crunch on the outside. This Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe perfectly captures the cozy flavors of fall with its tender, moist crumb infused with apple cider, applesauce, and warm spices. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply crave an inviting treat, this bundt cake brings together the nostalgic charm of a classic donut and the comfort of a homemade cake, making every bite a delicious experience you’ll want to revisit time and time again.

Ingredients You'll Need

A single slice of light brown cake with a soft texture sits on a white plate with a thin dark stripe near the edge. The cake has a layer of sugar crystals covering the side that faces the viewer, giving it a slightly rough look. Next to the cake slice is a golden fork placed on the plate. The plate rests on a folded light blue cloth, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe plays a vital role, creating a balance of texture, aroma, and flavor that makes the cake so memorable. Simple pantry staples combine with fresh apple cider and applesauce to deliver that perfect tender crumb and spicy sweetness you’ll love.

All-purpose flour (3 cups): The foundation for the cake’s structure, providing just the right density and crumb.
Ground cinnamon (2 tsp): Brings that warm, inviting spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
Nutmeg (¼ tsp): Adds a subtle complexity and depth to the spice blend.
Salt (1 tsp): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Baking powder (1 ½ tbsp): Gives the cake a tender rise, ensuring it isn’t too dense.
Granulated sugar (1 ½ cups): Sweetens and helps with the cake’s tender crumb.
Brown sugar (½ cup): Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
Vegetable oil (1 cup): Keeps the cake moist and tender without overpowering flavors.
Eggs (3): Bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s rich texture.
Unsweetened applesauce (1 cup): Brings moisture, fruit flavor, and a bit of natural sweetness.
Apple cider juice (1 cup): The star ingredient that infuses the cake with its signature apple flavor and moisture.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Rounds out the flavors with a lovely aromatic note.
Unsalted butter, melted (¼ cup): For coating the cake and helping the cinnamon sugar stick.
Granulated sugar for coating (¼ cup): Creates the classic sweet, crunchy shell.
Cinnamon for coating (2 tsp): Enhances the crust’s sweet spice and adds that delightful donut-like finish.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by setting your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats, give your bundt pan a good spray with non-stick spray, then dust it lightly with flour. This simple step ensures your cake will release perfectly once baked, avoiding any sticky situations!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and baking powder. Combining these dry ingredients ahead of time helps to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents, setting the stage for a perfectly textured cake.

Step 3: Cream Sugars and Oil

In a larger bowl, blend the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Mixing these ingredients together blends the sweetness and fat, which is key for a moist and tender crumb in your Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe.

Step 4: Add Eggs

Next, add the eggs into the sugar and oil mixture one at a time, mixing on medium speed for about two minutes. The eggs add structure and richness, helping to create that delightful cake texture you’re aiming for.

Step 5: Incorporate Applesauce and Vanilla

Stir in the unsweetened applesauce and vanilla extract until fully combined. The applesauce brings moisture without heaviness and enhances the fruity profile of the cake beautifully.

Step 6: Alternate Adding Flour and Apple Cider

On low speed, add one-third of the dry flour mixture, followed by half of the apple cider juice. Continue alternating between the flour and apple cider, finishing with the final third of the flour mixture. This gentle mixing ensures the batter remains slightly thin and tender, not dense or overworked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour your batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for approximately 50 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs attached. Resist the urge to open the oven door too often to help maintain an even rise.

Step 8: Cool and Coat with Cinnamon Sugar

After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for about an hour. Once it's cool but still slightly warm, turn the cake out onto a plate and brush it generously with melted butter. Then, sprinkle and pat on the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly to coat all sides, creating that classic apple cider donut finish you crave.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe

A round bundt cake with a golden brown color and a soft texture is placed on a white plate. The cake has a ridged pattern around its sides and is sprinkled with a light dusting of white powdered sugar on top. One slice of the bundt cake is slightly pulled out, showing the inside of the cake, which looks moist and fluffy. A woman's hand is gently touching the slice. The setting is on a white marbled surface, and the photo is taken from above, showing the entire cake and part of the sliced piece clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To dress your Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans can add texture and enhance the autumnal theme.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream. For a beverage, hot apple cider, chai tea, or even a cup of black coffee perfectly complement the warm spices.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices on rustic wooden boards for a cozy feel or try individual mini bundt cakes for a party. Wrapping single servings in parchment paper tied with twine makes for an adorable gift or grab-and-go treat that friends will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping it sealed well ensures the cinnamon sugar crust remains lovely and crisp.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake whole or in slices by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen, it will keep well for up to 2 months without losing that incredible moist texture and cozy flavor.

Reheating

For a delightful warm slice, reheat pieces gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a low oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. Warm cake brings out the spices and apple cider notes beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use canned apple cider for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure the apple cider is pure and not vinegar-based. The fresh apple cider juice is what infuses the cake with its signature flavor, so avoid anything too processed or flavored with additives.

Is applesauce necessary in this Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe?

Yes, the applesauce adds moisture and natural sweetness, which helps keep the cake tender without needing extra fat, making it delightfully soft and flavorful.

Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?

You can, but it will change the texture slightly. Using butter will add richness but may make the cake less moist compared to the oil. If using butter, melt it and cool before mixing in to maintain the right consistency.

What if I don’t have a bundt pan? Can I use a regular cake pan?

You can bake this in a tube pan or even a loaf pan, though the baking time may vary. Keep an eye on it and test doneness with a toothpick. Adjust the time accordingly if using smaller or larger pans.

How do I get the cinnamon sugar to stick so well on the cake?

Brushing the cooled (but slightly warm) cake with melted butter before coating it in cinnamon sugar helps the mixture stick perfectly, giving you that classic donut-style crust.

Final Thoughts

Trying out this Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe will feel like a warm hug from the inside. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the flavors of fall or simply enjoy a charming twist on a classic cake. Once you get a taste of that moist, spiced crumb with the crisp cinnamon sugar coat, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds — and maybe even thirds. Gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to fall in love with every bite!