As the leaves begin to turn and the air becomes crisp, my kitchen transforms into a cozy haven filled with the enticing aroma of baked goods. There’s something about the warm spices and sweet tang of apple cider that instantly whisk me away to bustling fall markets and sweet memories of autumn festivities. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for a delightful Apple Cider Donut Cake—a perfect centerpiece for your holiday gatherings. This bundt cake is not only easy to whip up, but it also captures the comforting essence of homemade fall desserts, ensuring every slice is a crowd-pleaser. With a glossy cider glaze and a delightful crunch from the sugar coating, it brings a little taste of nostalgia to your table. Are you ready to bake up a batch and make your space feel like a welcoming autumn retreat?
Why is This Apple Cider Cake Special?
Nostalgic Flavor: Each bite delivers the sweet, tangy essence of apple cider combined with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, reminding you of cozy fall days.
Effortless Baking: Simple to prepare, this bundt cake is perfect for home bakers of all levels looking to impress without the fuss.
Versatile Treat: Pair it with your favorite beverages, like a cold glass of apple cider or a warm cup of coffee, making it suitable for any occasion.
Festive Presentation: The beautiful glaze and crunchy sugar coating elevate this cake, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for holiday tables or family gatherings.
Enduring Freshness: Stays moist for days, and leftovers can easily be frozen for future enjoyment, ensuring you always have a delightful treat on hand.
Dive into this easy recipe today, and relish the comforting taste of fall with each slice!
Apple Cider Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cake; you can substitute it with a gluten-free flour blend if necessary.
- Baking powder – This leavening agent ensures your cake rises beautifully.
- Salt – Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth that embodies the essence of fall.
- Nutmeg – Offers a unique aromatic note that beautifully complements apple cider.
- Unsalted butter – Ensures tenderness and richness; remember to use it at room temperature for even mixing.
- Brown sugar – Contributes moisture and a deep caramel flavor.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and is also used for the delicious coating.
- Eggs – Help bind the ingredients together and add to the cake’s structure; use them at room temperature for best results.
- Vanilla extract – Imparts warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Apple cider – Infuses the cake with its signature flavor while adding moisture.
For the Glaze
- Salted butter – Adds richness and depth to the glaze mixture.
- Demerara or turbinado sugar – Provides a delightful crunch and enhances the cake’s topping.
- Granulated sugar (for coating) – Sweetens the exterior, giving it that delightful finishing touch.
Get ready to indulge in the comforting flavors of this Apple Cider Cake, perfect for sharing with family and friends!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Donut Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grab a 12-cup bundt pan and generously grease it with cooking spray or butter to ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake releases effortlessly after baking. Set aside the pan, and let’s move on to the next step.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are evenly blended. This important step adds flavor and ensures the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In the bowl of a stand mixer, place ½ cup of unsalted butter, ¾ cup of brown sugar, and ¾ cup of granulated sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed for 3-5 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy, creating a wonderful base for your apple cider cake. The fluffy texture is key to achieving a moist cake.
Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Add 2 room temperature eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing one at a time. Once fully combined, pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and continue mixing. This step is crucial for binding all the ingredients together, enhancing the overall flavor of your warm and cozy Apple Cider Donut Cake.
Step 5: Combine Flour Mixture and Cider
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1 cup of apple cider. Start and end with the flour, mixing on low speed just until combined. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl to incorporate everything evenly. This method ensures a tender crumb for your delicious cake.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place the bundt pan in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll know it’s done when the aroma fills your kitchen, cozying up your home with delightful fall scents.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the cake bakes, prepare the glaze by simmering ½ cup of apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat. Reduce the cider for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly. Once reduced, remove from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of salted butter until melted. This glaze will add a wonderful shine and flavor to your cake.
Step 8: Glaze the Cake
After the Apple Cider Donut Cake has baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, invert the cake onto a serving plate. Brush the warm cider glaze generously over the top, allowing it to soak in, while sprinkling a mixture of demerara sugar and cinnamon over the cake. This step creates a delightful crunchy exterior.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
The final touch is to serve your Apple Cider Donut Cake warm or at room temperature. This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee or apple cider. Slice it up and share the comforting flavors of fall with your family and friends, creating warm memories around the table.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Cake
Room Temperature: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its moisture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer, the cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week. However, expect it to lose some moisture, so let it come to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake (without glaze) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: To enjoy your cake warm, simply microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds, or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
What to Serve with Apple Cider Donut Cake
As the sweet aroma of apple cider and warm spices fills the air, it’s time to create a delightful meal to accompany this scrumptious dessert.
-
Cold Apple Cider: This refreshing drink mirrors the cake’s ingredients, enhancing flavors and creating a delightful fall atmosphere.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla creates a wonderful contrast with the warm cake, melting into each slice for a comforting experience.
-
Spiced Chai Tea: The cozy spices in chai complement the cake’s flavor profile, making each sip a warm embrace on chilly days.
-
Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, homemade whipped cream adds a delightful texture and richness, balancing the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
-
Pecans: Roasted pecans provide a lovely crunch that plays against the softness of the cake, adding a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
-
Pumpkin Soup: Its earthy warmth pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake, creating a lovely balance of flavors for a hearty autumn meal.
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cake
Whisk Dry Ingredients Well: Ensure you thoroughly mix the flour, baking powder, salt, and spices. This guarantees even distribution of flavors in your apple cider cake.
Cream Butter Properly: Beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving a moist and tender texture in your cake.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring eggs and butter to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and improves emulsification, making your cake rise beautifully.
Check Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake towards the end of the baking time. Ovens vary, so check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
Glaze While Warm: Brush the cider glaze onto the cake while it’s still warm. This allows the glaze to soak in and enhances the flavor of your apple cider cake.
Store with Care: Wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap to stay moist at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cake without the glaze.
Apple Cider Cake Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that can elevate your Apple Cider Donut Cake to new heights of flavor and texture!
-
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious cake that everyone can enjoy. You won’t miss the traditional flour!
-
Nutty Addition: Fold in 1 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts for a satisfying crunch. The nutty flavor pairs beautifully with the warm spices.
-
Extra Fruity: Add 1 cup of diced apples to the batter for bursts of sweetness and moisture. It’s like adding your favorite apple pie to each slice.
-
Plant-Based: Substitute eggs with 1 cup of unsweetened applesauce and swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option. This keeps the cake moist and flavorful!
-
Spiced Up: Enhance the spice profile by adding 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger or allspice for a richer, more complex flavor that celebrates the season.
-
Maple Glaze: Swap the apple cider in the glaze for maple syrup to give your cake a unique twist that complements the fall theme wonderfully.
-
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: Mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon for a sweeter, spicier outer layer that’s sure to be a hit!
-
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your finished cake for an indulgent treat. The richness will take your taste buds on a delightful ride!
For more delicious autumn-inspired ideas, try our Baked Apple Fritters for a quick seasonal treat or sip on a refreshing Green Apple Mocktail as you enjoy your cake!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cider Donut Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients and store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Also, consider measuring and combining the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, spices) a few days ahead to streamline your prep. When you’re ready to bake, pour the batter into the greased bundt pan and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy a delightful, fresh-baked cake that remains just as delicious, making your fall gatherings effortless and memorable!
Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting apple cider?
Absolutely! When choosing apple cider for your cake, look for one that is fresh and unfiltered. A good quality cider should have a rich, robust flavor without added sugars or preservatives. Ideally, it should be a beautiful amber color with no dark spots; this indicates freshness and quality.
How should I store leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake?
To keep your cake moist and delicious, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for up to one week, but be aware it might lose some moisture.
Can I freeze my Apple Cider Cake?
Yes! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake (without the glaze) tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
What if my cake is too dry after baking?
If you find your cake has turned out dry, it might have been overmixed or baked for too long. To avoid this in the future, mix the batter just until combined and keep a close eye as it bakes—each oven can vary. If your cake is too dry, try serving it with a scoop of ice cream or drizzling it with extra glaze to add moisture.
Is this recipe suitable for individuals with gluten allergies?
Great question! You can make a gluten-free version of this Apple Cider Donut Cake by substituting all-purpose flour with a reliable gluten-free flour blend. I often recommend using one that contains xanthan gum for stability. Be sure to check all ingredients for hidden gluten, especially in the baking powder and spices.
What are some alternatives to apple cider?
Certainly! If you’re out of apple cider or looking for different flavors, you can use apple juice, though it will alter the cake’s taste slightly. For a twist, try substituting the cider with unsweetened pomegranate juice or cranberry juice for a vibrant fall-inspired cake. Just remember to adjust sugar levels depending on sweetness levels in these juices!
Cozy Up with Irresistible Apple Cider Cake Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 12-cup bundt pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a stand mixer, cream together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture and apple cider, alternating between them.
- Pour the batter into the bundt pan and bake for 40-50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Prepare the glaze by simmering apple cider until reduced, then stir in salted butter.
- Cool the cake for 10 minutes, then invert it and brush with warm cider glaze.
- Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, optionally garnished with sugar.
