The crisp air and vibrant leaves of fall always bring back cherished memories of visits to the local orchard, and there’s nothing quite like an Apple Cider Donut Cake to capture that essence! This easy Apple Cider Cake Recipe infuses the warm, comforting flavors of apple cider right into a moist, tender bundt cake, finished off with a delightful cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for cozy gatherings or as a sweet treat when the weather turns chilly, this cake is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a breeze to make. Curious about how the magic happens? Let’s dive into the recipe and make your kitchen smell like autumn!
Why is this Apple Cider Cake special?
Nostalgic flavors: This cake embodies the essence of fall, reminiscent of visits to apple orchards with every bite.
Crowd-pleasing goodness: Perfect for family gatherings or cozy get-togethers, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Easy preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you’ll have a stunning dessert in no time.
Versatile options: Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or pair it with a glass of cold apple cider for the ultimate treat.
Customizable flavor: Add diced apples or swap some flour for whole wheat to make this cake your own. Start making sweet memories with this delightful Apple Cider Cake Recipe!
Apple Cider Cake Recipe Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure to the cake; consider using gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Baking powder – Essential leavening agent that helps the cake rise deliciously.
• Salt – Enhances the overall flavor, bringing all the ingredients together.
• Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice, giving the cake that cozy fall essence.
• Nutmeg – Contributes to the delightful fall flavor profile that makes this cake memorable.
• Unsalted butter (room temperature) – Enriches the cake with moisture and a soft crumb.
• Brown sugar – Adds depth of flavor and moisture to the cake.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and assists in achieving that lovely golden color.
• Eggs (room temperature) – Binds the ingredients and adds richness.
• Vanilla extract – Deepens the flavor, making every slice irresistible.
• Apple cider – The star player; infuses the cake with apple flavor and moisture.
For the Glaze
• Salted butter – Adds a rich, buttery flavor to the glaze, making it luscious.
• Demerara or turbinado sugar – Provides a delightful crunchy texture for the cake’s topping, elevating it further.
This Apple Cider Cake Recipe is not just another dessert; it’s a warm hug in cake form, perfect for celebrating the flavors of fall!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). To ensure your cake releases perfectly, generously grease a 12-cup bundt pan with unsalted butter or a non-stick spray. This creates a smooth surface for the Apple Cider Cake, allowing it to glide out with ease once baked.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Use a whisk to thoroughly blend these dry ingredients for about 30 seconds, ensuring even distribution of the leavening agent and spices. You should see a uniform mixture that will add warmth and flavor to your Apple Cider Cake.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat room temperature unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together on medium speed until fluffy—this should take about 3-4 minutes. You’re aiming for a light, creamy texture. Once achieved, add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract for added depth.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture and apple cider to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating between the two. Start with about a third of the flour mix, then add half of the cider, mixing on low speed until just combined. This process should take about 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without overmixing.
Step 5: Pour the Batter into the Bundt Pan
Once your batter is smooth and all ingredients are incorporated, carefully pour it into the prepared bundt pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly and ensure there are no air pockets. Then, place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. The cake should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s done.
Step 6: Prepare the Apple Cider Glaze
While your Apple Cider Cake is baking, pour some apple cider into a saucepan and heat it over medium-high heat. Bring it to a simmer, reducing the cider until it thickens and measures about ½ cup, which will enhance the flavor of your glaze. This process usually takes about 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in salted butter until melted and glossy.
Step 7: Glaze and Coat the Cake
Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, gently invert it onto a wire rack. While the cake is still warm, brush it generously with the apple cider glaze, allowing it to soak in. Finally, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon together in a small bowl and sprinkle this mixture liberally over the glaze to create a delightful cinnamon sugar coating.
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cake Recipe
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better texture.
- Don’t Rush the Baking: Bake until a toothpick comes out clean—this helps avoid a dense cake. Overbaking can lead to dryness.
- Use Fresh Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider gives the best flavor. Avoid using diluted or artificial versions for the most authentic taste.
- Cool Before Glazing: Allow the cake to cool slightly before glazing so the glaze soaks in without sliding off.
- Adjust Spices: Feel free to tweak the cinnamon and nutmeg to suit your taste. A pinch of allspice can also complement the flavor beautifully!
Apple Cider Cake Recipe Variations
Feel free to put your unique twist on this comforting classic and delight your senses!
- Whole Wheat: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for an earthy flavor. It adds a lovely nuttiness that complements the apples wonderfully.
- Diced Apples: Fold in some diced apples into the batter for added texture. The juicy bits bring pockets of flavor that enhance each slice, definitely a fun surprise!
- Lemon Zest: For a tangy twist, add a splash of lemon juice or zest to the batter. This brightens the overall flavor profile while balancing the sweetness beautifully.
- Spiced Applesauce: Use unsweetened applesauce in place of some butter for a lighter cake. It keeps the moisture locked in while adding an extra apple-y essence that’s irresistible.
- Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. The nuts bring additional texture and a heartiness that pairs perfectly with the soft cake.
- Maple Glaze: Switch it up by glazing with maple syrup instead of cider. It brings a whole new layer of sweetness, perfect for those maple lovers out there!
- Extra Cinnamon: Boost the cinnamon for a warm, spicier flavor. If you’re a cinnamon fanatic, don’t be shy—this cake can handle the extra warmth!
- Chili Flake Infusion: Add a pinch of red chili flakes for a surprising kick! This unexpected heat will enhance the warm spices and create a memorable taste experience.
Embrace the cozy vibes and let your creativity shine! For even more fun ideas, check out this delightful Apple Cider Whoopie recipe or add a twist to your meal with a refreshing Carrot Apple Salad on the side. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Cider Donut Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing the bowl covered in the fridge. To maintain quality, make sure to let the batter come to room temperature before pouring it into the bundt pan. The glaze can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 3 days; simply reheat it in the microwave before glazing the cake. When ready to bake, just pour the batter into your prepared pan and follow the baking instructions for a delicious, warm cake that captures the flavors of fall with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Cake
Room Temperature: Wrap your Apple Cider Cake in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 5 days to maintain its moist texture.
Fridge: If you’re in a warmer climate, consider refrigerating the wrapped cake to keep it fresh but consume within 4 days to avoid dryness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the unglazed cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature, then brush with glaze and warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.
What to Serve with Easy Apple Cider Donut Cake
Imagine the cozy atmosphere of a fall gathering, where warmth fills the air, and the sweet scent of apple cider lingers—pair your delicious cake with these delightful options!
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm cake, enhancing the sweet spices with cool creaminess.
- Cold Apple Cider: The crisp, refreshing taste of apple cider balances the warm cake flavors, making each bite even more delightful.
- Spiced Nuts: Crunchy, spiced nuts add a satisfying texture contrast and a nutty flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the cake’s sweetness.
- Fresh Apple Slices: Slices of fresh apples bring a lovely crispness and a refreshing element, echoing the cake’s apple flavor while adding vibrant colors.
- Coffee or Tea: A cup of rich coffee or soothing tea complements the warm spices beautifully, creating a comforting experience perfect for chilly days.
- Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: For a sweet indulgence, serve mini doughnuts rolled in cinnamon sugar for a fun twist on the apple cider theme.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A light spread of tangy cream cheese frosting drips down the sides, enhancing the cake and adding a luscious tang.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A warm drizzle of maple syrup brings out the cake’s sweetness while echoing the autumn vibes—perfect for enhancing its flavor!
- Warm Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over a slice adds a sumptuous richness that pairs perfectly with the spices of the cake.
Apple Cider Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of apple cider is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh, unfiltered apple cider. This gives your cake that rich, authentic apple taste that makes it feel like autumn, enhancing the overall sweetness and warmth.
How should I store leftover Apple Cider Cake?
Store your Apple Cider Cake wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to keep it fresh longer, move it to the refrigerator, but be sure to consume it within 4 days to prevent dryness.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can! For freezing, ensure the cake is unglazed. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature, glaze it, and warm it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
How can I tell if the cake is properly baked?
Great question! To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready! If there’s wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Very! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary restrictions. Just ensure it’s a reliable blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture.
What if I want to make adjustments to the spices?
The more the merrier! You can alter the amounts of cinnamon and nutmeg to suit your taste. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of allspice or cloves — this will create a deliciously spiced Apple Cider Cake that’s perfectly cozy for fall!
Cozy Apple Cider Cake Recipe for Fall Flavors
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 12-cup bundt pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a stand mixer, beat together butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and stir in vanilla.
- Gradually combine the flour mixture and apple cider into the butter mixture, alternating between the two.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 40-50 minutes until golden brown.
- In a saucepan, simmer apple cider until it thickens to about ½ cup; stir in salted butter until melted for glaze.
- Cool the cake for 10-15 minutes, then glaze while still warm and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.
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