Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe

Let me tell you, this Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe is one of those comforting treats that instantly takes me back to crisp autumn mornings. It’s like a cozy hug in cake form—moist, lightly spiced, with that warm apple cider flavor shining through every bite. What I love most is how easy it comes together, yet it tastes like you spent hours perfecting it.

If you’re craving something that pairs beautifully with your afternoon tea or a festive brunch centerpiece, this recipe is a total winner. Plus, it’s got that nostalgic doughnut vibe without the mess of frying—making it a perfect pick for busy days when you want something special without the fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients blend together to give you a cake that’s bursting with real apple flavor, warm spices, and that irresistible cinnamon sugar crunch on top. Here’s a quick scoop on why each one matters, plus some pointers when you shop for them.

• Yellow Cake Mix or Spice Cake Mix: I usually opt for yellow cake mix for a lighter base, but spice cake adds extra warmth if you want to amp up the fall vibes.
• Apple Cider: Make sure you grab real apple cider, not the juice or vinegar—that fresh apple tang is key for flavor here.
• Applesauce: I love using cinnamon-flavored applesauce—it adds moistness and a hint of spice. Just avoid chunky varieties so the texture stays smooth.
• Eggs: Using room temperature eggs helps the batter mix evenly and gives you a better crumb.
• Cinnamon: This little pinch (or more if you’re like me) is what ties the cake into that classic doughnut flavor.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle caramel note that plays beautifully against the cinnamon.
• Vanilla: Just a splash brings all the flavors together.
• Cinnamon Sugar Topping: The combo of cinnamon, sugar, and melted butter on top gives you that perfect, slightly crunchy doughnut coating.

Variations

This Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe is pretty flexible—I like to tweak it based on the season or mood. Don’t hesitate to make it your own, that’s part of the fun!

• Spice It Up: Once, I added a bit of nutmeg and cloves to make it extra cozy, which my family absolutely loved.
• Gluten-Free Option: I’ve tried a gluten-free yellow cake mix and it worked surprisingly well; just be sure to check the mix’s instructions for egg substitutions if needed.
• Apple Chunks: Sometimes, I toss in small apple pieces for texture—just make sure to keep them tiny so the cake still bakes evenly.
• Maple Twist: Swapping out the vanilla for a teaspoon of maple extract gave a lovely twist that felt like a warm fall morning in Vermont.

How to Make Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Wet Ingredients

Start by whisking your eggs until they’re light and fluffy—that’s going to help your cake lift nicely. Then add in the apple cider, applesauce, brown sugar, and vanilla. This combo is where all the moist, tender magic happens, so make sure everything is well combined before moving on.

Step 2: Combine with Cake Mix and Spices

Now, sprinkle in the cake mix and cinnamon—gently fold them in just until the dry ingredients disappear. The key here is not to overmix; a few lumps are totally fine and will keep your cake from getting dense. If you love cinnamon like I do, don’t be shy with that extra pinch.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into a well-greased or lined bundt or tube pan to get that doughnut shape. Bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for around 45 to 50 minutes. Check it at about 40 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter. Resist opening the oven door too often because that can deflate your cake!

Step 4: Apply Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Right after the cake comes out of the oven and is still warm, brush on melted butter generously to the top and sides. Then sprinkle your cinnamon sugar mix all over it. This step adds that signature doughnut crunch and sweetness that really sets this cake apart.

How to Serve Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe

Garnishes

I like to keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar or an extra sprinkle of cinnamon sugar if I’m feeling fancy. Sometimes fresh apple slices or a dollop of whipped cream make it extra festive, especially when serving guests.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of chai tea or a spiced latte. For brunch, I often serve it alongside scrambled eggs or a light fruit salad to balance the sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For autumn celebrations, try placing the cake on a rustic wooden board and surrounding it with cinnamon sticks, small pumpkins, and fresh apples for a stunning harvest centerpiece. I’ve also wrapped slices individually in parchment paper tied with twine as charming take-home favors for parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I like to keep the Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Beyond that, it stays moist and yummy in the fridge for about a week.

Freezing

Freezing is a great option if you want to prep in advance. I slice the cake into portions, wrap each piece tightly in plastic, and place them in a freezer bag. It freezes beautifully for up to three months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm them briefly in a low-temperature oven (around 300°F) wrapped in foil. This helps bring back that fresh-baked softness, especially if you’ve stored it in the fridge or freezer.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe is one of those rare desserts that feels like a personal invitation to slow down and enjoy a simple pleasure. I swear, every time I bake it, the smell fills my kitchen with memories and smiles. Give it a go—you’ll find it’s just as fun to make as it is to eat, and perfect for sharing with the people you love (or keeping all to yourself if you’re feeling cheeky!).

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