Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Name: Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow or spice cake mix; 1 cup apple cider; ½ cup apple sauce (preferably cinnamon-flavored); 3 large eggs; ¼ tsp cinnamon; 2 tbsp cinnamon (for topping); ¼ cup sugar (for topping); ¼ cup melted butter (for topping)

Published: December 30, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of apple cider and cinnamon creates a warm and inviting flavor that everyone will love.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s brunch, dessert, or just because, this cake fits seamlessly into various settings.
Moist and Tender Texture: Thanks to the apple cider and applesauce, each bite is incredibly moist and satisfying.
Versatile Topping Options: While cinnamon sugar is classic, feel free to experiment with other toppings like whipped cream or a cream cheese frosting.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the right tools ready to ensure your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Bundt pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk or electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

Bundt pan: This unique shape allows for even baking and creates an impressive presentation.
Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes helps in organizing your ingredients as you prepare the batter.
Whisk or electric mixer: Efficiently combines your ingredients for a smooth batter without lumps.

Ingredients

Our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is flavorful and moist with an apple cider glaze and cinnamon sugar to top it off.

For the Cake:

1 15.25 ounce box Yellow cake mix or Spice Cake Mix
1 cup apple cider (NOT apple juice and NOT apple cider vinegar)
½ cup apple sauce (we used cinnamon apple sauce, not chunky)
3 large eggs (room temperature)
¼ tsp cinnamon (more if you like it really cinnamony!)
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla

For the Glaze:

2 tablespoons cinnamon (depending on how much cinnamon you prefer)
¼ cup sugar
¼ cup melted butter

How to Make Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the dry cake mix, apple cider, apple sauce, and eggs until well combined.
2. Add in the cinnamon (¼ tsp), brown sugar, and vanilla extract to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Bundt Pan

Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured bundt pan. A cooking spray like Baker’s Joy can be especially helpful since it includes flour to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Place the bundt pan on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 40-45 minutes. To check if it’s done:
1. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake.
2. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready! Remove from heat.

Step 5: Cool Down

Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack for about 20 minutes before removing it from the pan.

Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping

In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together cinnamon with sugar.

Step 7: Finish Your Cake

Once cooled:
1. Brush the entire surface of the cake with melted butter.
2. Rub the cinnamon sugar mixture over it until evenly coated.

Enjoy every slice of this delicious Apple Cider Doughnut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Serving your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can elevate the experience, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this moist cake.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream pairs wonderfully with the warm flavors of the cake, adding a creamy contrast.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

A rich caramel sauce drizzled on top enhances the sweetness and adds a decadent touch.

Accompanied by Fresh Apples

Slices of fresh apples not only add color but also provide a crisp texture that complements the cake’s softness.

Paired with Coffee or Tea

Serve this cake alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat that balances sweetness with warmth.

Topped with Whipped Cream

Lightly sweetened whipped cream on top can add an airy texture, making each bite even more delightful.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

To ensure your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and apple sauce are at room temperature to help create a smoother batter and even baking.
Measure Ingredients Carefully: Accurate measurements can significantly affect the cake’s texture. Use measuring cups specifically for dry and liquid ingredients.
Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to gluten development, which makes for a tougher texture.
Check Oven Temperature: Oven temperatures can vary. Consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions for best results.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

To complement your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, consider serving it with these delicious side dishes. They enhance the overall flavor profile and make for an inviting spread.

Cinnamon Spiced Apples: Warm apples sautéed in cinnamon and sugar bring out the fall flavors of the cake beautifully.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins: These muffins add a seasonal touch and pair well with the apple notes in the cake.
Caramelized Pears: Sweet, caramelized pears offer a sophisticated pairing that highlights fruity flavors.
Gingerbread Cookies: A spiced cookie option that adds warmth and complements the cinnamon notes in the doughnut cake.
Creamy Vanilla Pudding: A smooth pudding provides a contrasting texture, making each bite delightful.
Maple Glazed Donuts: For those who love donuts, these add more variety while staying true to the theme of apple cider treats.
Chai Spiced Hot Chocolate: This warming drink is perfect for enhancing flavors while providing comfort during colder months.
Mixed Berry Salad: A light berry salad adds freshness and acidity, cutting through sweetness effectively.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, it’s easy to overlook certain details that can affect the final result. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

Using the wrong type of apple cider – Ensure you use pure apple cider, not apple juice or vinegar. This affects the flavor and moisture of your cake.
Skipping room temperature eggs – Use eggs at room temperature for better mixing. Cold eggs can lead to a denser cake.
Not greasing the bundt pan – Failing to properly grease and flour your bundt pan may cause the cake to stick. Use a non-stick spray with flour for best results.
Overmixing the batter – Mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a tough texture instead of a tender crumb.
Ignoring baking time – Every oven is different. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time to prevent overbaking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop – Place in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.

Can I substitute different cake mixes?

Yes, you can use either yellow or spice cake mix based on your preference. Spice cake adds extra warmth with spices.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of traditional cake mix. Make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What if I want extra flavor in my Apple Cider Doughnut Cake?

You can add more spices like nutmeg or ginger, or even fold in some chopped apples into the batter for added texture and flavor.

How should I serve my Apple Cider Doughnut Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own but can be served with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a deliciously moist dessert that combines seasonal flavors with ease of preparation. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Feel free to customize it by adding nuts, raisins, or even caramel drizzle! Don’t hesitate to try this delightful recipe; it’s sure to become a favorite!

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