Craving all the warm, cozy vibes of fall in a single bite? This Apple Cider Donut Cake delivers just that—and more. Inspired by the classic apple cider donuts found at autumn fairs and apple orchards, this cake brings that same nostalgic flavor into your kitchen with far less effort. Baked in a Bundt pan and coated in cinnamon sugar, it’s the perfect sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, no deep frying required.
Whether you’re baking for a holiday brunch, cozy weekend, or just because, this Apple Cider Donut Cake is the ultimate fall dessert that’s earned its place in the spotlight.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe
- Super easy: No mixers or complicated steps—just whisk, pour, and bake.
- Bold fall flavor: Reduced apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg create that irresistible donut-shop taste.
- Perfect texture: Moist and fluffy inside with a crisp, cinnamon-sugar coated exterior.
- Great for gatherings: Beautifully shaped and crowd-pleasing for brunches, holidays, or potlucks.
- No deep fryer needed: All the donut flavor with the simplicity of a cake.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake
- Apple Cider: The star ingredient—boiled down to intensify its rich, fruity flavor.
- Applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and moisture without making the cake too dense.
- Vegetable Oil: Keeps the crumb light and tender.
- Brown & White Sugar: A sweet blend that enhances caramel notes and balances moisture.
- Spices (Cinnamon & Nutmeg): Bring warmth and that signature donut flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: The sturdy base that binds it all together.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Help the cake rise beautifully.
- Butter + Cinnamon Sugar (for coating): Melted butter helps the spiced sugar cling to every bite for a true donut effect.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake
- Reduce the cider: Simmer the apple cider in a small saucepan until it reduces to about half. This concentrates the flavor.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a Bundt pan.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the reduced cider, applesauce, sugars, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Create batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Don’t overmix!
- Bake: Pour the batter into the Bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and unmold: Let the cake rest for 10 minutes before flipping it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Add the coating: Brush the entire surface with melted butter, then sprinkle or press cinnamon sugar all over for a classic donut-like finish.
Expert Tip: Don’t skip the cider reduction—it’s key to achieving a bold apple flavor!
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for deeper flavor.
- Use fresh cider: Avoid apple juice; real apple cider gives the best taste.
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Add glaze: For a more decadent finish, drizzle with a vanilla or maple glaze.
- Mini version: Pour batter into a mini Bundt pan or muffin tin for individual servings.
How to Store & Reheat
Store: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Slice and freeze individually for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheat: Warm slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive that fresh-baked texture and aroma.
Similar Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re craving more creative and indulgent sweet treats just like this Apple Cider Donut Cake, don’t miss out on these delicious ideas:
- Churro Cheesecake Donut Cookies – A crispy, cinnamon-sugar cookie with a creamy cheesecake surprise in the center.
- Caramel Apple Fudge – All the nostalgic fall flavor packed into smooth, melt-in-your-mouth fudge.
- Pineapple Lemon Drop – A bright, citrusy dessert that’s perfect when you want something sweet with a refreshing twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Not recommended. Apple cider has a deeper, more complex flavor. Apple juice is sweeter and more diluted, which affects the taste.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no batter.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavors deepen after a day. Just be sure to add the cinnamon sugar coating just before serving for best texture.
What type of Bundt pan works best?
Use a standard 10–12 cup Bundt pan. Nonstick works great, but always grease it well to avoid sticking.
There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of this Apple Cider Donut Cake—sweet, spiced, and perfect for any fall gathering. It’s easy to make, gorgeous to serve, and guaranteed to impress. Give it a try, and let the cozy aroma fill your kitchen. Don’t forget to leave a comment or tag your creation—we love seeing your bakes come to life!
Apple Cider Donut Cake
Ingredients
Cake Batter:
- 1½ cups apple cider reduced to ¾ cup
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan.
- In a saucepan, simmer apple cider until reduced to ¾ cup. Let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, whisk reduced cider, applesauce, sugars, eggs, oil, and vanilla.
- In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Stir dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool 10 minutes in the pan, then invert onto a wire rack.
- While warm, brush the cake with melted butter and sprinkle or press the cinnamon sugar all over.