Apple Cider Donut Cake – Best Fall Cake Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the rich aroma of cinnamon and apples filling the kitchen — and that’s exactly what you get with this apple cider donut cake. Inspired by classic apple cider donuts, this cake transforms your favorite fall treat into a soft, buttery bundt cake coated in cinnamon sugar. Whether you’re hosting a brunch, craving a cozy dessert, or simply want to enjoy the flavors of autumn, this apple cider donut cake is easy to make, crowd-pleasing, and deeply flavorful.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donut Cake

This apple cider donut cake is more than just a seasonal dessert — it’s a celebration of cozy flavors, familiar textures, and nostalgic fall cravings. It’s soft and tender on the inside, thanks to the combination of sour cream and reduced apple cider, and coated in a crisp layer of cinnamon sugar, just like your favorite donut shop treats.

What makes it stand out? It’s:

• Quick to prepare: Just 20 minutes of hands-on time.
• Made with pantry staples: No fancy ingredients needed.
• Perfect for gatherings: A beautiful bundt shape makes a stunning centerpiece.
• Freezer-friendly: Make ahead and enjoy later.

From apple-picking weekends to cozy sweater weather, this is the cake you’ll want on your fall baking list.

What You’ll Need for the Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

• All-purpose flour: Forms the base and provides structure.
• Baking powder & baking soda: Leavening agents for rise and fluffiness.
• Ground cinnamon: The key spice that delivers warm, comforting notes.
• Ground nutmeg: Adds depth and a subtle earthiness.
• Ground allspice: Brings a hint of sweetness and complexity.
• Ground cloves: For that unmistakable fall aroma.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
• Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter and helps with texture.
• Light brown sugar: Brings moisture and a hint of molasses.
• Large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add moisture.
• Vanilla extract: Complements the warm spices and apple flavor.
• Apple cider (reduced): The star ingredient — intensifies the apple flavor.
• Sour cream: Adds moisture and tang for a perfect cake texture.

For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• Melted unsalted butter: Helps the cinnamon sugar stick and adds richness.
• Granulated sugar: Gives the coating its sweetness and crunch.
• Ground cinnamon: Boosts the spice on every bite.

Smart Ingredient Swaps for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Ran out of something or catering to dietary needs? Try these alternatives:

• Greek yogurt instead of sour cream: Offers the same moisture and tang.
• Applesauce for part of the butter: Lowers fat content and adds more apple flavor.
• Gluten-free flour blend: Swap one-to-one for a gluten-free version.
• Pumpkin pie spice: If you’re out of individual spices, this blend can step in.
• Coconut sugar: For a lower glycemic index and a more caramel-like sweetness.

These swaps maintain the integrity of the apple cider donut cake while allowing for flexibility and creativity in the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cider Donut Cake

1. Preheat and prep your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a bundt pan with butter and flour to prevent sticking.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and salt. This ensures the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cake.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with both granulated and light brown sugar. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy — about 2–3 minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
5. Begin alternating the dry ingredients with the sour cream and reduced apple cider. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently — just until combined — to avoid overworking the batter.
6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should spring back when gently pressed.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before adding the topping.
9. Brush the cooled cake with melted butter, ensuring full coverage for the coating to stick.
10. In a small bowl, combine granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle generously over the cake, pressing lightly so the coating adheres to every crevice.

Pro Tips for Apple Cider Donut Cake Success

• Reduce your apple cider ahead of time: Simmer on low until it reduces by half. This concentrates the flavor without adding excess liquid.
• Don’t skip the cooling time: A warm cake may fall apart when removing from the pan.
• Use a silicone brush for even butter distribution before adding cinnamon sugar.
• Double the coating if you like an extra-crispy, sugary exterior.

Remember, this apple cider donut cake is all about texture and flavor — soft inside, crunchy outside, and perfectly spiced throughout.

Serving Ideas, Variations, and Storage Tips

Apple cider donut cake is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many options:

Serve with:

• Warm apple cider or chai tea for a cozy combo.
• A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• A drizzle of salted caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Make ahead & storage:

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days — just bring to room temp before serving.
• Freeze slices individually for up to 2 months. Thaw and warm slightly before enjoying.

Fun variations:

• Mini bundts or muffins: Use the same batter for smaller portions — adjust baking time to 20–25 minutes.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or extra nutmeg for a bold flavor.
• Glazed version: Skip the cinnamon sugar and pour over a simple vanilla or apple cider glaze.

These creative tweaks let you enjoy this apple cider donut cake in countless ways, adapting it for every occasion and preference.

Apple Cider: The Star of Seasonal Baking

One of the biggest reasons apple cider donut cake is so beloved is the role of apple cider itself. By reducing it on the stove, the flavor intensifies — creating a rich, almost caramelized apple note that infuses the entire cake. This seasonal ingredient not only enhances the taste but brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to your kitchen.

Whether you pick up fresh cider from a local orchard or buy it from your favorite store, be sure to reduce it for the best results. It’s the secret behind the deep apple flavor that makes this cake unforgettable.

Conclusion

Apple cider donut cake is the ultimate comfort dessert that perfectly captures the flavors of fall in every slice. With a soft, tender crumb and a delightful cinnamon sugar coating, it’s a dessert that feels nostalgic, yet fresh. Whether you’re baking it for a weekend brunch, a cozy gathering, or simply as a seasonal treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress. The use of reduced apple cider infuses the batter with intense apple flavor, while the warm spice blend brings aromatic depth and richness. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and endlessly versatile — this apple cider donut cake is bound to become a seasonal staple in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Relevant Recipes

• Cinnamon Rolls Recipe – Soft & Gooey Homemade: These tender, fluffy cinnamon rolls are swirled with buttery cinnamon sugar and topped with a rich glaze. Much like apple cider donut cake, they bring cozy warmth and sweet spice to your kitchen, making them perfect for fall or winter mornings.
• Apple Crisp Recipe – Best Fall Dessert: This classic apple crisp is packed with spiced apple filling and topped with a buttery oat crumble. Its cozy apple-cinnamon flavor profile closely aligns with the apple cider donut cake, making it a delicious, rustic alternative for apple dessert lovers.
• Gingerbread Cake with Luscious Cream Cheese: Spiced with ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, this moist gingerbread cake captures the essence of holiday baking. It shares the same warm spice blend as apple cider donut cake, making it a flavorful choice for festive gatherings.

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