Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delightful treat that combines the warm flavors of fall with the soft, moist texture of cake. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive holiday celebration. With its apple cider glaze and cinnamon sugar topping, this dessert stands out as a unique and flavorful option that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up this delicious cake in no time.
- Flavorful: The combination of apple cider and spices creates a rich flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a dessert or enjoy it as a sweet breakfast treat with your morning coffee.
- Perfect for Fall: The comforting flavors of apple and cinnamon make it an ideal dessert for autumn gatherings and holidays.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the apple sauce and cake mix, this cake stays moist and tender for days.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake perfectly, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving the best results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan: This unique shape not only gives your cake an attractive design but also helps it bake evenly.
- Mixing bowls: Ample space for mixing allows you to combine ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success, ensuring your cake turns out just right.
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 Topping:
- 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 step is vital for ensuring even baking throughout your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.
Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the dry cake mix, apple cider, apple sauce, and eggs.
2. Add cinnamon (¼ tsp), brown sugar, and vanilla to the mixture.
3. Mix until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Grease and flour a bundt pan using Baker’s Joy or similar product.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan evenly.
- Place it on the center rack of your oven and bake for 40-45 minutes.
- Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
Step 4: Cool Down
Once baked, remove from heat:
1. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 20 minutes on a wire rack.
2. Carefully turn it out onto the rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Add Topping
- In a separate bowl, mix together cinnamon and sugar.
- Once cooled, brush melted butter over the entire surface of the cake.
- Generously rub the cinnamon-sugar mixture onto the cake until evenly coated.
Enjoy your homemade Apple Cider Doughnut Cake!
How to Serve Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Serving your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can be just as delightful as making it. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your cake experience.
For Breakfast
- Pair with fresh fruit – Serve slices alongside seasonal fruits like apples or pears for a refreshing start to your day.
- Enjoy with coffee – The warm spices in the cake complement a cup of hot coffee or tea perfectly.
As a Dessert
- Top with whipped cream – A dollop of whipped cream adds richness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce – Warm caramel sauce over the top creates an indulgent finish that everyone will love.
For Gatherings
- Cut into small squares – Serve bite-sized pieces for parties, allowing guests to enjoy without committing to a large slice.
- Accompany with ice cream – Vanilla bean ice cream pairs wonderfully, adding a creamy texture that contrasts nicely with the cake.
How to Perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
To achieve the best version of your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, consider the following tips to elevate your baking game.
- Use fresh apple cider – Fresh cider enhances flavor and moisture; avoid substitutes like apple juice.
- Room temperature eggs – Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffier texture.
- Don’t skip greasing – Properly grease and flour your bundt pan to prevent sticking and ensure a beautiful release.
- Let it cool properly – Allowing the cake to cool on a wire rack prevents sogginess and maintains its structure.
- Experiment with spices – Adjust cinnamon levels based on personal preference or add nutmeg for extra warmth.
- Store correctly – Keep leftover cake wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
When serving Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some great options:
- Spiced Apples – Sauté sliced apples in butter and cinnamon for a warm, comforting side.
- Maple Pecan Salad – A mixed greens salad topped with maple dressing and pecans provides a crunchy contrast.
- Cheese Platter – Pair with sharp cheddar or creamy brie for a savory balance against the sweet cake.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream – This flavor mirrors the spices in the cake while adding a cool creaminess.
- Pumpkin Soup – A warm bowl of pumpkin soup offers cozy fall flavors that complement the dessert.
- Hot Chocolate – Rich hot chocolate, perhaps spiced with cinnamon, is perfect for dipping pieces of cake during colder months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing the Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, it’s easy to make some common errors. Avoid these mistakes for a perfect cake every time.
- Using the wrong type of cider: Make sure to use apple cider and not apple juice or apple cider vinegar. This is crucial for achieving the right flavor profile.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Combine the ingredients just until blended for a light and fluffy texture.
- Not checking doneness: Always test your cake with a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, it’s done; otherwise, it needs more time.
- Skipping the cooling process: Allowing the cake to cool for 20 minutes before removing it from the pan helps avoid breakage and ensures a better texture.
- Ignoring cinnamon measurements: Adjust cinnamon according to your taste preference. Too little can make it bland, while too much might overpower other flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Apple Cider Doughnut Cake in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cake in aluminum foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds. Check if warm enough; repeat if necessary.
- Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place a slice of cake in the skillet and cover with a lid, heating for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making and enjoying Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.
Can I use homemade apple cider instead of store-bought?
Using homemade apple cider is perfectly fine! Just ensure it’s fresh and not diluted for the best flavor in your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.
What can I substitute for eggs?
If you need an egg substitute, consider using applesauce or mashed banana. About 1/4 cup of either works well per egg.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make an Apple Cider Doughnut Cake gluten-free, use a gluten-free cake mix instead of regular cake mix.
What toppings can I add?
Besides cinnamon sugar, you could try drizzling caramel sauce or adding chopped nuts on top of your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake for extra flavor and texture!
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different spices or toppings to suit your taste. Whether enjoyed with coffee or as a dessert after dinner, this cake is sure to bring joy to any occasion. Try making it today!
Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is the ultimate cozy dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. This moist and flavorful bundt cake features a delightful combination of warm spices, apple cider, and a sweet cinnamon sugar topping. Perfect for gatherings or a quiet evening at home, this cake offers a unique twist on traditional fall flavors that everyone will love. It’s easy to make with minimal ingredients, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels. Whether served as a sweet breakfast treat alongside coffee or as a show-stopping dessert at your next celebration, this Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is sure to impress.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 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
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon (depending on how much cinnamon you prefer)
- ¼ cup sugar
- ¼ cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, apple cider, applesauce, eggs, cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla. Mix until well combined.
- Grease and flour a bundt pan. Pour the batter into the pan evenly and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Mix cinnamon and sugar in a bowl. Brush melted butter over the cooled cake and coat with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice - approximately 75g
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
