Our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delightful treat that brings the flavors of autumn right to your kitchen. This cake is not only moist and flavorful but also topped with an irresistible apple cider glaze and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration, this cake will surely impress your guests with its unique taste and inviting aroma.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this cake comes together quickly, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of apple cider and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it as a sweet breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or a dessert at your next gathering.
- Moist Texture: The addition of apple sauce ensures that every bite of this cake is tender and moist.
- Beautiful Presentation: The bundt shape gives it an elegant look that makes it perfect for serving at parties.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you need to prepare this tasty Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan: This unique shape helps the cake bake evenly while also providing a beautiful presentation.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients for a light and fluffy batter.
- Wire rack: Allows the cake to cool evenly without getting soggy on the bottom.
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
- 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 your cake bakes evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare 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 ¼ tsp of cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract into the batter.
Step 3: Pour into Bundt Pan
Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured bundt pan. Using products like Baker’s Joy can help prevent sticking.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Place your bundt pan on the center rack of the preheated oven:
1. Bake for 40-45 minutes.
2. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
3. Remove from heat and allow cooling on a wire rack for about 20 minutes.
Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together cinnamon and sugar until well blended.
Step 6: Coat with Butter and Sugar Mixture
Once cooled:
1. Brush melted butter over the entire surface of the cake.
2. Rub the cinnamon-sugar mixture all over until evenly coated.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Doughnut Cake!
How to Serve Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Serving your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can elevate the experience for you and your guests. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a festive party, these suggestions will enhance the enjoyment of your delightful cake.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Light and fluffy: Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
- Sweetened options: Add a hint of vanilla or cinnamon to the whipped cream for extra flavor.
A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream
- Classic pairing: Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
- Drizzle caramel sauce: Enhance this combo with a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.
Drizzled with Warm Apple Cider Glaze
- Moist and sweet: Reheat some apple cider glaze and drizzle over each slice just before serving.
- Extra flavor boost: This adds an extra layer of moistness and sweetness to the cake.
With Hot Beverages
- Coffee or tea: Pairing your cake with a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea complements its flavors perfectly.
- Cider punch: For an autumnal touch, serve it alongside warm apple cider punch.
Garnished with Sliced Apples
- Fresh crunch: Add thinly sliced apples on the side for freshness and texture.
- Cinnamon sprinkles: Dust the apple slices with cinnamon sugar to tie in the flavors.
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: This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
- Don’t skip greasing the pan: Ensuring your bundt pan is well-greased prevents sticking and makes for easy removal after baking.
- Test doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to check if it comes out clean; avoid overbaking for maximum moisture.
- Cool completely before glazing: Letting the cake cool allows the glaze to set nicely without sliding off.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon or add nutmeg for more depth in flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can enhance its allure. These options will complement its flavors beautifully.
- Cinnamon Applesauce: A warm, spiced applesauce that echoes the cake’s flavors.
- Maple Pecan Salad: A fresh salad topped with maple vinaigrette, offering a sweet crunch that balances the cake’s richness.
- Roasted Butternut Squash: Sweet, caramelized squash adds an earthy flavor that contrasts well with dessert.
- Cheese Platter: A mix of soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese pairs wonderfully with the spices in the cake.
- Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup brings warmth and spice, making it perfect for fall gatherings.
- Spiced Chai Latte: This comforting beverage enhances the cozy vibe while complementing the cake’s flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking the perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.
- Using the wrong type of cider: Ensure you use apple cider, not apple juice or vinegar. This will give your cake the right flavor.
- Ignoring room temperature eggs: Always use room temperature eggs for better mixing and fluffiness. Cold eggs can lead to a denser cake.
- Not greasing the pan properly: A well-greased bundt pan prevents sticking. Use a spray like Baker’s Joy for easy removal.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough instead of tender.
- Skipping the toothpick test: Checking with a toothpick at the center ensures it’s baked through. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor absorption.
Freezing Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.
Can I use homemade apple cider?
Yes! Homemade apple cider will add a fresh and unique flavor to your cake.
How do I make my Apple Cider Doughnut Cake more cinnamon-flavored?
Simply increase the amount of cinnamon in the batter or sprinkle more cinnamon sugar on top after glazing.
Can I substitute other types of cake mix?
Absolutely! Spice cake mix works wonderfully, adding extra warmth and flavor to your doughnut cake.
What serving suggestions go well with this cake?
Pair it with coffee or tea for a cozy snack or serve it as a dessert topped with whipped cream!
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is not only delightful but also versatile. You can customize it by adjusting spices or adding nuts. We encourage you to try this comforting dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering!
Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a heartwarming dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. This moist and flavorful cake, enhanced with a luscious apple cider glaze and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar, is perfect for any occasion—from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations. With its inviting aroma and delightful taste, this cake is sure to impress your guests and become a seasonal favorite in your household. Easy to make with just a few simple ingredients, it offers versatility as either a sweet breakfast treat or an indulgent dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) Yellow or Spice Cake Mix
- 1 cup apple cider
- ½ cup apple sauce (preferably cinnamon)
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, apple cider, apple sauce, and eggs; mix until smooth.
- Add cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract; blend well.
- Pour the batter into a greased bundt pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow cooling for about 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 16g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
