Apple Cider Donut Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fall-Inspired Flavor: Warm apple cider and spices evoke cozy autumn vibes.

• Moist and Tender: Apple cider adds moisture and subtle sweetness.

• Easy to Make: Simple batter with no frying required.

• Versatile Serving: Great for dessert, brunch, or snack time.

• Beautiful Presentation: Bundt or round cake shape with a sweet glaze.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup apple cider

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Sugar Glaze:

• ½ cup powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons apple cider

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 tablespoon melted butter (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt or 9-inch round cake pan.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add dry ingredients alternately with apple cider, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Stir in vanilla extract.

5. Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

6. Cool: Allow cake to cool in pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Make Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, apple cider, cinnamon, and melted butter until smooth.

8. Glaze Cake: Drizzle glaze over cooled cake before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8-10

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Add Nuts: Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter.

• Spiced Up: Add ground cloves or allspice for extra warmth.

• Glaze Twist: Use cream cheese glaze instead of cinnamon sugar.

• Mini Cakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.

• Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm slices gently in the microwave or oven.

• Freezing: Freeze whole cake or slices for up to 2 months; thaw before serving.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apple cider?

Yes, fresh or store-bought apple cider works well.

Can I substitute applesauce?

Applesauce can be used but may alter texture slightly.

How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

Avoid overbaking and store properly.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free flour blend.

Can I add diced apples?

Yes, fold in peeled and diced apples for extra texture.

How thick should the glaze be?

It should be pourable but not too runny; adjust powdered sugar accordingly.

Can I make this cake vegan?

Use flax eggs and dairy-free substitutes.

Can I use a different pan?

A loaf pan or bundt pan both work well.

How do I know when the cake is done?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Is this cake sweet?

Moderately sweet with warm spice flavors.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful autumn-inspired dessert that captures the nostalgic flavors of apple cider donuts in an easy-to-make cake form. With its tender crumb and sweet cinnamon glaze, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite for family and friends.