Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake Recipe

A Fall Favorite

The Ultimate Cozy Treat for Autumn

As the leaves begin to change and the crisp autumn air settles in, nothing beats the comforting aroma of warm cinnamon and apple cider wafting through your kitchen. If you love the taste of classic apple cider donuts, then this Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake is the perfect treat for you! Moist, flavorful, and coated in a delicious cinnamon-sugar topping, this cake brings all the cozy flavors of fall into one easy-to-make dessert.

This recipe is ideal for anyone who enjoys the nostalgic flavors of apple cider donuts but wants something a little more shareable and elegant for family gatherings, holiday brunches, or weekend baking sessions. Best of all, it comes together with simple ingredients and doesn’t require a mixer!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • ¾ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • ⅔ cup oil (vegetable or canola)
  • ⅔ cup dark brown sugar
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating:

  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted
  • ⅓ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 10-cup or standard-size bundt cake pan
  • Mixing bowls (medium and large)
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden skewer (for testing doneness)
  • Cooling rack
  • Pastry brush (for butter coating)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bundt Pan and Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease your bundt cake pan with butter or a baking spray to ensure easy release. A homemade cake release (cake goop) works best for preventing sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, baking powder, and baking soda. Set aside.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large measuring cup or bowl, mix the apple cider and applesauce together and set aside.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients and the apple cider mixture into the wet mixture, alternating between the two. Start and end with the dry ingredients to ensure a well-mixed batter. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 40-50 minutes or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a cooling rack.

Step 6: Add the Cinnamon-Sugar Coating

Place the cooling rack over a baking sheet or parchment paper to catch any excess sugar. Brush the warm cake with melted butter, then sprinkle generously with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Let the cake fully cool before slicing and serving.

Storage and Leftover Tips

If you have any leftovers (which is rare with this cake!), here’s how to store them:

  • Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Refrigerator: Store in a sealed container for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based butter for the cinnamon-sugar coating.
  • Add a crunchy topping: Sprinkle chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) over the batter before baking.
  • Glazed version: Instead of cinnamon sugar, drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze.
  • Stronger apple flavor: Reduce the apple cider on the stovetop before adding it to intensify the taste.

FAQ – Common Questions

Can I use fresh apple cider?

Yes! Fresh apple cider gives the best flavor, but store-bought works well too.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake stays moist for days, making it perfect for preparing in advance.

What can I serve with this cake?

This bundt cake pairs beautifully with:

  • A hot cup of chai latte or coffee
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream
  • A drizzle of warm caramel sauce

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

This Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake is the ultimate fall dessert—soft, moist, and packed with cozy spices. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!

If you loved this recipe, please share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, easy-to-make recipes! Happy baking! 🍏🍩🎂

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