Apple Cider Donut Cake

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall, you’ve stumbled upon the right recipe! This Apple Cider Donut Cake is not just any cake; it’s a warm hug in dessert form. With its light and crumbly texture, every bite is like a cozy autumn day. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want to treat yourself after a long week, this cake is the perfect choice. The cinnamon-sugar topping adds that extra touch of sweetness that makes it irresistible.

What I love most about this Apple Cider Donut Cake is how easy it is to whip up. You don’t need to be a baking expert to create something truly special. Just gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a slice of fall on your plate!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this cake in the oven in no time.
• Family favorite: Everyone from kids to grandparents will love this sweet treat—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Perfect for gatherings: Whether it’s a birthday party or an afternoon tea, this cake fits seamlessly into any occasion.
• Make-ahead option: Bake it in advance and let the flavors develop overnight—it’s even better the next day!
• Deliciously flavorful: The combination of apple cider and cinnamon creates a comforting flavor profile that screams autumn.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake, you only need a handful of simple and wholesome ingredients. Most likely, you already have these in your kitchen! Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:

For the Cake

• 1 box yellow cake mix (I used Betty Crocker)
• 3/4 cup apple cider
• 1/2 cup sweetened applesauce
• 3 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Topping

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
• Use different spices: Swap out cinnamon for nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a unique twist.
• Add fruit: Mix in diced apples or pears for added sweetness and texture.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the yellow cake mix with your favorite gluten-free blend!

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer on low speed to combine the yellow cake mix, apple cider, sweetened applesauce, eggs, and melted butter. This step is crucial as it brings all those delicious flavors together while keeping the batter light.

Step 3: Add Sweetness

Next, add brown sugar and vanilla extract to the mixture. Blend well until everything is incorporated. The brown sugar adds depth and enhances that cozy flavor we all love!

Step 4: Prepare Your Bundt Pan

Grease and flour a 10 or 12-cup bundt pan thoroughly before pouring in your batter. Properly preparing the pan helps prevent sticking so you can easily release your beautiful cake once it’s baked.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan and bake it in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it; when a toothpick comes out clean (mine took about 45 minutes), it’s ready!

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, remove your cake from the oven and let it cool on a cooling rack for about 15 minutes. This helps set the structure before unmolding it.

Step 7: Unmold Your Cake

After cooling for 15 minutes, carefully turn the bundt pan over onto another cooling rack or parchment paper. This step should be done gently so as not to break your lovely creation.

Step 8: Prepare Topping

While waiting for your cake to cool completely, mix together sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl for that delightful topping.

Step 9: Final Touches

Brush melted butter over your cooled cake generously. Then sprinkle that luscious cinnamon-sugar mixture on top and along the sides of your cake. It adds not just flavor but also an irresistible sparkle!

Now you’re ready to slice into this beautiful Apple Cider Donut Cake! Enjoy every crumb with friends or keep it all for yourself—no judgment here!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Cider Donut Cake

Creating the perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake is easier with a few handy tips!

• Use fresh apple cider – Fresh, high-quality apple cider enhances the flavor of your cake, making it taste even more delicious and aromatic.
• Let ingredients reach room temperature – Allowing eggs and applesauce to sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing helps them blend more easily into the batter, resulting in a smoother texture.
• Grease and flour your bundt pan well – A well-prepared pan ensures that your cake releases easily after baking, preventing any frustrating sticking or breakage.
• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined helps to maintain a light and fluffy texture in your cake. Overmixing can lead to a dense result.
• Cool completely before serving – Allowing the cake to cool completely before serving allows the flavors to meld and improves its overall texture.

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

This delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some fun ideas on how to present this lovely dessert.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness that complements the cinnamon-sugar topping beautifully.
• Caramel drizzle – Drizzling caramel sauce over the top brings an additional layer of flavor that pairs wonderfully with the apple cider notes.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delightful contrast to the warm cake and enhances its flavors.
• Whipped coconut cream – This dairy-free option adds a light and airy texture while complementing the spices in the cake perfectly.
• Apple slices with cinnamon dip – Fresh apple slices sprinkled with cinnamon provide a crunchy, refreshing side that echoes the flavors in the cake.
• Hot apple cider – Serving warm apple cider alongside the cake creates a cozy experience that’s perfect for fall gatherings.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this scrumptious Apple Cider Donut Cake! Whether it’s for a family gathering or simply as a sweet treat for yourself, this recipe is bound to bring warmth and joy into your kitchen. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy its delightful flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly to maintain its freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Keep any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• If you want to extend its shelf life, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Always ensure the cake is fully cooled before wrapping or covering it.

Freezing

• To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, ensuring no air can enter.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake overnight in the refrigerator before bringing it back to room temperature.

Reheating

• For individual slices, warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
• If reheating the whole cake, place it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious treat!

Can I use a different cake mix for the Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Absolutely! While I recommend yellow cake mix for a classic flavor, you can experiment with other flavors like spice or vanilla. Just keep an eye on consistency and baking time.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

To elevate your Apple Cider Donut Cake, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits into the batter. A pinch of nutmeg along with cinnamon can also add depth to the flavor.

Can I reduce the sugar in this Apple Cider Donut Cake recipe?

Yes! You can reduce sugar by substituting half of it with unsweetened applesauce or using a sugar alternative suitable for baking. Adjust according to your taste preference!

Is this Apple Cider Donut Cake suitable for special diets?

Yes! This recipe avoids pork, alcohol, and animal-derived gelatin. It’s a wonderful option for many dietary needs while still being delicious.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bake this delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake! Its warm spices and sweet aroma truly capture the essence of fall. Whether enjoyed as a cozy dessert at home or shared with friends, this cake brings joy and comfort. Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to share your creation with those you love!