Apple Cider Donut Cake: 1 Unforgettable Fall Bite

Name: Apple Cider Donut Cake: 1 Unforgettable Fall Bite
Prep time: 12 min
Cook time: 22 min
Total time: 34 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1-½ cups fresh apple cider; 4 tablespoons (66 grams) cold unsalted butter, diced; 2 large eggs; ⅓ cup (70 grams) granulated sugar; ½ cup (110 grams) lightly packed brown sugar; ⅓ cup (70 grams) light olive oil (or other neutral oil); ¼ cup (66 grams) sour cream (or greek yogurt); 1-½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; 1-½ teaspoons ground cinnamon; Pinch allspice; ¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt (if using fine sea salt use half by volume); 1-¾ cups (210 grams) cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon butter, at cool room temperature (for topping); ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar (for topping); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping)

by Jannet Lisa

14 de July de 2025

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Apple Cider Donut Cake has become my go-to fall dessert ever since I first tasted it at a local farm stand. I remember biting into that warm, cinnamon-sugar-coated slice, and it instantly transported me to crisp autumn mornings and apple picking adventures. The aroma of spiced apples and sweet cider filling my kitchen now brings back all those cozy memories. This easy Apple Cider Donut Cake recipe truly captures the essence of those beloved donuts, but in a much simpler, cake form. You’ll love how effortlessly it comes together, delivering all the comforting flavors you crave without the fuss of frying. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donut Cake

I know you’ll fall in love with this cake just like I have. It’s a true taste of autumn and so simple to make!

It perfectly captures that nostalgic apple cider donut flavor in every bite.
The prep time is minimal, making it an ideal treat for busy weeknights.
It’s a wonderful, comforting dessert that brings smiles to everyone’s faces.
Making this homemade Apple Cider Donut Cake is much easier than frying individual donuts.
This recipe is incredibly budget-friendly, using common pantry staples.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of fall without needing special equipment.
You’ll be proud to serve this delicious homemade Apple Cider Donut Cake to friends and family.

Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful cake. I’ve designed this recipe to use common pantry staples, ensuring that delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake is always within reach!

1-½ cups fresh apple cider – this is the star, reduced to intensify that crisp apple flavor.
4 tablespoons (66 grams) cold unsalted butter, diced – for richness and structure.
2 large eggs – bind everything together and add moisture.
⅓ cup (70 grams) granulated sugar – for sweetness.
½ cup (110 grams) lightly packed brown sugar – adds moisture and a hint of caramel.
⅓ cup (70 grams) light olive oil (or other neutral oil) – contributes to the cake’s tenderness.
¼ cup (66 grams) sour cream (or greek yogurt) – a secret ingredient for incredible moistness, essential for a perfect Cider Donut Bundt Cake texture.
1-½ teaspoons baking powder – for lift and a light crumb.
½ teaspoon baking soda – works with the cider for leavening.
1-½ teaspoons ground cinnamon – infuses that classic donut spice.
Pinch allspice – enhances the warm, autumnal notes.
¼ teaspoon coarse kosher salt (if using fine sea salt use half by volume) – balances the sweetness.
1-¾ cups (210 grams) all-purpose flour – the base of our cake.
1 tablespoon butter, at cool room temperature (for topping) – for the buttery cinnamon sugar coating.
¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar (for topping) – for that irresistible sugary crunch.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping) – for the iconic donut finish.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Making this cake is a joy, and I promise you’ll love how simple it is to bring these incredible fall flavors to life in your kitchen. Here’s exactly how to make apple cider donut cake, step-by-step.

Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, prepare a 9-inch square baking dish by buttering or spraying it with oil. I like to line it with a piece of parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides; this creates a handy sling for easy removal later.
Step 2: In a large sauté pan, pour in your 1-½ cups of fresh apple cider. Bring it to a boil and let it simmer until it’s reduced by half, which should take about 5 minutes. You’re aiming for exactly ¾ cup of concentrated cider – this reduction is key for that intense apple flavor in your Apple Cider Donut Cake. Once reduced, add the cold diced butter to the hot cider and whisk until it’s fully combined and melted.
Step 3: In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the wet ingredients: eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, light olive oil, sour cream, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, allspice, and salt. This creates the flavorful base for your cake.
Step 4: Slowly whisk the warm, reduced cider mixture into the wet ingredients. Take your time with this step to ensure everything is well incorporated and smooth.
Step 5: Now it’s time to add the flour. Gently stir in the 1-¾ cups of all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; overmixing can lead to a tough cake, and we want a tender, moist Apple Cider Donut Cake.
Step 6: Pour the beautifully spiced batter into your prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly to ensure consistent baking.
Step 7: Bake the cake in your preheated oven for about 22-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s puffed up, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen right now is simply divine!
Step 8: Once baked, transfer the cake in its dish to a cooling rack and let it rest for just 5 minutes. This brief cooling period helps it firm up slightly before the next step.
Step 9: While the cake is still warm, place the tablespoon of room-temperature butter directly on top of the cake. As it melts, use a pastry brush to spread it evenly over the entire surface. This butter layer is essential for the cinnamon-sugar topping to adhere.
Step 10: In a small bowl, combine the ¼ cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for your topping. Liberally sprinkle this fragrant cinnamon-sugar mixture over the buttered surface of the cake. This is what gives it that signature “donut” finish.
Step 11: Using the parchment paper sling, carefully lift the Apple Cider Donut Cake out of the pan and place it directly onto the cooling rack.
Step 12: Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting it into squares. I find it tastes best when still a little warm, but fully cooled slices are also delicious. Enjoy your homemade autumn treat!

Pro Tips for the Best Apple Cider Donut Cake

I’ve made this cake countless times, and I’ve picked up a few tricks to ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake turns out absolutely perfect every single time. These simple tips will elevate your baking game and guarantee a super moist and flavorful cake.

Always reduce your apple cider: This step is non-negotiable for intense apple flavor. Don’t skip it!
Measure your flour correctly: Spoon and level, don’t scoop directly from the bag, to avoid a dense cake.
Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep your cake tender and light.
Apply the cinnamon-sugar topping while warm: This helps it adhere beautifully and creates that iconic donut crust.

Apple Cider Donut Cake - detail 2

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

The real secret to the perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake lies in the reduced apple cider. Concentrating the cider intensifies its flavor, giving you that authentic, deep apple taste without adding extra liquid. This method is what makes this the best apple cider donut cake recipe I’ve ever made!

Can I make Apple Cider Donut Cake ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can bake this delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake a day in advance. Once it’s completely cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay wonderfully moist and flavorful.

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

To avoid common pitfalls with your Apple Cider Donut Cake, first, make sure your baking powder and soda are fresh. Second, be careful not to overbake; start checking for doneness at the 20-minute mark. Lastly, don’t forget to apply the cinnamon-sugar topping immediately after brushing with butter, while the cake is still warm.

Best Ways to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Once your incredible Apple Cider Donut Cake is ready, the fun continues with how you decide to serve it! This cake is versatile enough for any occasion, from a simple afternoon snack to a star dessert at your next gathering.

For a truly comforting experience, I love serving a warm slice of Apple Cider Donut Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The cool creaminess perfectly complements the warm, spiced cake. It also pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or, for a true fall treat, a mug of warm apple cider.

This cake makes an ideal fall dessert cake for brunches, potlucks, or even just a cozy evening at home. You can also drizzle a little caramel sauce over each slice for an extra touch of indulgence. It’s truly a cake that pleases everyone!

Nutrition Facts for Apple Cider Donut Cake

I’ve provided these approximate nutrition facts to give you a better understanding of what’s in each delightful slice of this Apple Cider Donut Cake. While I always focus on flavor, it’s good to know the nutritional breakdown too.

Serving Size: 1 slice (recipe makes 12 slices)
Calories: 285
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 37g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 25g
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 220mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and preparation methods. This Apple Cider Donut Cake is a treat to be savored!

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cider Donut Cake

One of the best things about this delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake is how well it stores, meaning you can enjoy its comforting flavors for days! Properly storing your cake ensures it stays moist and fresh, just like the day you baked it.

Once your cake has completely cooled to room temperature, which is crucial for preventing condensation, I recommend wrapping individual slices tightly in plastic wrap. For the remaining cake, place it in an airtight container. It will keep beautifully at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, this Apple Cider Donut Cake freezes wonderfully. Wrap slices or the whole cake (if cooled and uncut) in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for 15-30 seconds, or warm larger pieces in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until heated through. This brings back that lovely warm, soft texture of a fresh Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Donut Cake

What is apple cider donut cake?

An Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delicious baked good that captures all the warm, spiced flavors of a classic apple cider donut, but in an easier-to-make cake form. Instead of frying individual donuts, you get a moist, tender cake infused with reduced apple cider and topped with that irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating. It’s a perfect fall treat that brings together the best of both worlds!

Can I make this Apple Cider Donut Cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can certainly try! I’ve had success substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend in many of my recipes, and this Apple Cider Donut Cake should be no exception. Just make sure your blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How can I enhance the apple flavor in my Apple Cider Donut Cake?

To really boost that apple flavor in your Apple Cider Donut Cake, ensure you properly reduce the apple cider as instructed in the recipe – that concentration is key! You can also grate a small amount of fresh apple (like a Granny Smith) into the batter, or add a pinch of dried apple powder if you have it. A tiny dash of apple extract could also work, but use it sparingly!

What kind of apple cider should I use for this cake?

For the best Apple Cider Donut Cake, I always recommend using fresh, unfiltered apple cider. Look for it in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, especially in the fall. Avoid apple juice, as it lacks the same depth of flavor and cloudiness that contributes to the authentic taste of this cake. The fresher and less processed the cider, the better your cake will taste!

Variations of Apple Cider Donut Cake You Can Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic Apple Cider Donut Cake, you might be wondering how to put your own spin on this autumn favorite. I love experimenting in the kitchen, and there are so many delightful ways to adapt this recipe to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next baking adventure, including how you might craft an Apple cider spiced cake recipe with a twist.

Gluten-Free Version: As mentioned in the FAQs, simply swap out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. The rest of the recipe remains the same, allowing you to enjoy a delicious gluten-free Apple Cider Donut Cake.
Bundt Cake Style: For a more elegant presentation, bake this batter in a 10-cup Bundt pan. You’ll need to adjust the baking time, likely increasing it to 40-50 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean. This creates a beautiful, shareable Apple Cider Donut Cake perfect for gatherings.
Maple Glaze Addition: Instead of, or in addition to, the cinnamon-sugar topping, try a simple maple glaze. Whisk together powdered sugar with a few tablespoons of pure maple syrup and a splash of milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake for an extra layer of fall flavor.
Extra Spice Kick: If you’re a fan of bolder flavors, consider enhancing this already delightful Apple cider spiced cake recipe by adding a pinch more ginger, nutmeg, or even a tiny amount of ground cloves to the batter. This will give your Apple Cider Donut Cake an even warmer, more complex spice profile, perfect for a chilly autumn day.