Apple Cider Donut Cake

This Apple Cider Donut Cake brings the beloved fall flavor of apple cider donuts into an easy, moist, and delicious cake form. With the perfect blend of warm spices and a sweet, apple-infused flavor, this cake is an irresistible treat for any fall gathering or cozy dessert. The optional apple cider glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness, making it perfect for dessert lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Cider Donut Cake combines everything you love about autumn: cinnamon, apples, and that nostalgic cider mill flavor, but in cake form. It’s incredibly easy to make, with the help of a boxed cake mix, yet delivers all the homemade goodness you’d expect. The added apple cider and applesauce ensure it stays moist, while the cinnamon-sugar coating takes the cake to a whole new level. Whether you make it for a gathering or a weekend treat, this cake will be a hit every time.

Ingredients

1 box yellow cake mix (just the dry mix; Duncan Hines Spice Cake Mix is a great option for more flavor)
1 cup apple cider (not apple juice)
¼ teaspoon cinnamon
½ cup applesauce (preferably cinnamon applesauce)
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons cinnamon
¼ cup sugar
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Optional Apple Cider Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
¼ cup apple cider

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the dry cake mix, apple cider, applesauce, and eggs.
Add cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract to the mixture and blend well.
Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured bundt pan.
Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let it cool on a wire rack for about 20 minutes.

Optional Apple Cider Glaze:

Mix powdered sugar and apple cider in a small bowl, whisking until you reach your desired consistency.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 12 servings.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix or substitute with a gluten-free flour blend like Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 Flour.
Toppings: Add whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
Spices: For more spice, you can increase the cinnamon or add nutmeg and cloves for a warm, fall flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, simply thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for a few seconds.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes, you can use any yellow cake mix, or even a spice cake mix, for a stronger fall flavor.

Can I make this cake without a bundt pan?

Yes, you can use a 9×13-inch baking dish, but make sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.

How can I make the glaze thicker?

Simply add more powdered sugar to the glaze until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead of time and stored covered at room temperature.

Can I substitute the applesauce with something else?

You can substitute the applesauce with an equal amount of mashed banana or pumpkin puree for a different flavor twist.

What if I don’t have apple cider?

Apple juice can be used as a substitute, but cider gives a richer, more authentic flavor.

How do I know if the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, or with just a few crumbs.

Can I add chopped apples to the cake?

Yes, adding diced apples to the batter can enhance the flavor and add texture.

How can I make this cake more like a donut?

To make it more like a donut, you can coat the warm cake with cinnamon and sugar for a classic donut effect.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unglazed cake for up to 3 months. Thaw it at room temperature before glazing.

Conclusion

Apple Cider Donut Cake is the perfect fall dessert, bringing the nostalgic flavor of apple cider donuts into an easy, moist cake. With warm spices, apple cider, and the option of a sweet glaze, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s the perfect treat for cozying up during the fall season!

Apple Cider Donut Cake

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This Apple Cider Donut Cake captures all the cozy flavors of fall with apple cider, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Topped with a sweet apple cider glaze, it’s a perfect dessert for autumn gatherings or a cozy treat anytime.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Category: Desserts
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F.
In a large mixing bowl, combine dry cake mix, apple cider, applesauce, and eggs. Mix well.
Add cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract, and blend again.
Grease and flour a bundt pan, then pour the batter into the pan.
Bake for 45 minutes. Test with a toothpick, and when it comes out clean, remove from the oven.
Let the cake cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes.
Optional Apple Cider Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and apple cider until smooth and desired consistency.

Notes

For extra fall flavor, substitute Duncan Hines Spice Cake Mix.
For gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix or flour blend.
Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a special touch.