Name: Apple Cider Donut Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups apple cider (reduced to 3/4 cup); 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 3 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 cup whole milk or buttermilk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake combines the cozy flavor of apple cider donuts with the simplicity of a one-pan cake. It’s ideal for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat with coffee or tea. The apple cider adds natural sweetness and moisture, while the cinnamon-sugar coating gives it that irresistible donut finish. No frying needed—just mix, bake, and enjoy.

Ingredients

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

Apple cider (reduced for richer flavor)
All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Unsalted butter (softened)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Whole milk or buttermilk

For the topping:

Unsalted butter (melted)
Granulated sugar
Ground cinnamon

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly.
In a saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until reduced by half, then cool slightly.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract and the reduced apple cider.
Add the dry ingredients in batches, alternating with milk or buttermilk. Mix just until combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack.
While the cake is still warm, brush it with melted butter and generously sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture on all sides.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 12 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Cooling and decorating time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes

Variations

Maple glaze: Drizzle with a simple maple glaze instead of the cinnamon-sugar coating.
Apple chunks: Fold in small chunks of fresh apple for added texture.
Spiced cider: Use spiced apple cider for even more flavor depth.
Mini bundts or muffins: Bake in smaller pans for individual servings—just reduce the baking time accordingly.
Dairy-free: Use plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To refrigerate, wrap tightly and store for up to 5 days.
To freeze, wrap the cake in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature.
To reheat slices, microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring back that just-baked warmth.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

You can, but apple cider has a more intense apple flavor. If using juice, consider adding a bit of apple extract for a flavor boost.

Do I need to reduce the cider?

Yes, reducing the cider concentrates the flavor and prevents the cake from being too wet.

What kind of pan should I use?

A standard 10- or 12-cup bundt pan works best. Make sure to grease and flour it well to prevent sticking.

Can I use store-bought apple cider?

Absolutely. Just be sure it’s not sparkling or spiced unless that’s the flavor profile you’re going for.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease the bundt pan thoroughly with butter or baking spray, then dust with flour. Allow the cake to cool slightly before turning it out.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Can I skip the cinnamon-sugar topping?

You can, but the topping adds that classic donut cake flavor. If skipping, consider a glaze or powdered sugar instead.

Is this cake sweet enough without icing?

Yes, the brown sugar and apple cider provide natural sweetness. The cinnamon-sugar coating adds the perfect finishing touch.

Can I add nuts or raisins?

Sure! Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or raisins to the batter if desired.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake holds up well for a couple of days and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.

Conclusion

Apple cider donut cake brings the warmth and coziness of fall into your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, a brunch, or just craving something sweet and seasonal, this cake is a guaranteed hit. With its tender crumb and irresistible cinnamon-sugar coating, it’s sure to become a new favorite.