Recipe for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Few things capture the essence of fall better than the scent of warm apple cider and spices wafting through your kitchen. If you’re a fan of the classic apple cider donut, this cake is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Soft, moist, and packed with apple and spice flavors, it’s perfect for cozy gatherings or as a delightful treat with your morning coffee. Here’s how to make it.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 1/2 cups apple cider (reduced to 1 cup)

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon ground allspice

1/2 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

3/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Topping:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Reduce the Apple Cider

Start by preparing the apple cider. Pour 2 1/2 cups of apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to 1 cup, approximately 20–25 minutes.

This step intensifies the cider flavor. Set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Generously grease and flour a bundt pan to ensure the cake releases easily.

• Sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice,& salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

Cream the Butter and Sugars - Using a stand mixer or a handheld mixer, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Add the Eggs and Vanilla - Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet - Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three batches, alternating with the buttermilk and reduced apple cider. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

• Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

• Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 5: Add the Topping

• Mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl.

• Brush the cooled cake with melted butter and sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture liberally over the top and sides for that classic apple cider donut coating.

Tips for the Best Results

Don’t Skip the Reduction: Reducing the apple cider concentrates its flavor, making it the star of the cake.

Proper Pan Prep: Greasing and flouring the bundt pan thoroughly ensures the cake won’t stick.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring the butter, eggs, and buttermilk to room temperature before baking for a smoother batter.

Use Fresh Spices: The spices play a big role in the cake’s flavor, so make sure they’re fresh for the most aromatic result.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Cider Donut Cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of coffee or tea. For an extra indulgent treat, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

It’s also a standout centerpiece for fall parties or Thanksgiving dessert tables.

Enjoy this warm, cinnamon-spiced cake as you savor the cozy flavors of the season.