Apple Cider Donut Cake: A Moist, Spiced Bundt Packed with Fall Flavor
🍎 Apple Cider Donut Cake—A Cozy Fall Classic in Every Slice
🍂 From Orchard Treat to Bundt Pan Beauty
Few fall rituals stir nostalgia quite like a sugar-crusted apple cider donut enjoyed fresh from a farmstand on a crisp October afternoon. Originating in the Northeastern United States, particularly Vermont and Massachusetts, apple cider donuts date back to the early 1900s, when cider mills began using fresh-pressed apple cider as a flavorful liquid in baking. Farmers markets and roadside stands sold them warm, cinnamon-laced, and irresistible—quickly becoming an autumn tradition.
But as baking trends evolved, so did the donut. Enter the Apple Cider Donut Cake—a moist, spiced Bundt cake version that captures the same cozy charm without the need for deep-frying. This cake transforms a handheld treat into a centerpiece-worthy dessert that’s rich in apple flavor, warm spices, and that signature cinnamon sugar crust.
🗺️ A Nationwide Favorite—Who Loves It Most?
Once a regional gem, this fall favorite has gone nationwide. In fact, it’s especially popular in:
🇺🇸 United States:
- 🇳🇾 New York
- 🇻🇹 Vermont
- 🇲🇦 Massachusetts
- 🇵🇦 Pennsylvania
- 🇲🇮 Michigan
- 🇴🇭 Ohio
- 🇮🇱 Illinois
- 🇳🇯 New Jersey
- 🇻🇮 Virginia
- 🇨🇦 California
🇨🇦 Canada: Ontario and Quebec regions have also embraced this cozy cake for fall harvest celebrations.
Its rise in popularity is no surprise—Instagram-worthy swirls, cozy spices, and approachable ingredients have made it a star of fall baking. From cider mills to Pinterest boards, it’s everywhere. And now, it’s ready for your oven.
Want more fall-inspired baking ideas? Check out our French Toast Casserole, a cinnamon-spiced favorite that’s perfect for chilly mornings or dessert platters.
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You’ll Fall in Love With This Apple Cider Donut Cake – 5 Delicious Reasons Why
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 1 bundt cake (12 servings) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Cider Donut Cake blends fresh cider, warm spices, and cinnamon sugar in a moist, tender bundt—perfect for cozy fall baking and gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider, reduced
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- For topping: 1/4 cup melted butter + 1/2 cup sugar + 1 tablespoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Simmer the cider on the stove until it reduces to 1/2 cup
- Mix butter and sugar until fluffy, add eggs and sour cream
- Alternate adding dry mix with reduced cider
- Bake at 350°F for 40–45 minutes
- Brush with melted butter and dust with cinnamon sugar
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
What You’ll Need 🧰🍎
Essential Equipment for Bundt Cake Success 🧁
You don’t need fancy tools to pull off this cozy fall favorite—just a few kitchen staples to ensure a smooth baking process and beautiful bundt presentation:
- Bundt pan (12-cup capacity) – A must for achieving that classic ring shape and crisp, golden edges.
- Mixing bowls (at least 2) – One for dry ingredients, one for wet.
- Electric mixer or whisk – To blend sugar, oil, and eggs into a light, fluffy base.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy is key in baking.
- Cooling rack – Helps the cake cool evenly and avoids sogginess on the bottom.
🧈 Pro Tip: Use a pastry brush to grease and flour the bundt pan thoroughly, getting into all the nooks to prevent sticking.
Pantry & Fridge Ingredients 🍂
Here’s what gives this apple cider bundt cake its rich, spiced flavor and tender texture:
- All-purpose flour – The structural base.
- Baking powder & baking soda – Help the cake rise and hold its shape.
- Ground cinnamon & nutmeg – Warm spices that define fall baking.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and deepens flavor.
- Granulated sugar & brown sugar – A blend adds complexity and moisture.
- Vegetable oil – Keeps the crumb moist and light.
- Eggs – Provide lift and structure.
- Unsweetened applesauce – Adds natural moisture and subtle apple flavor.
- Apple cider – The star ingredient for that signature sweet-tart apple note.
- Vanilla extract – Enhances all the warm flavors.
📝 Ingredient Tip: Use fresh, local apple cider if available—it’s more flavorful and aromatic than shelf-stable versions.
🍰 Looking for more comforting fall bakes? Try our High-Fiber Apple Cranberry Baked Oats—a hearty, make-ahead option with cozy orchard vibes.
Ingredients 🧾🍏
This apple cider bundt cake delivers the flavors of a cider donut in every bite—with simple pantry staples and a cozy blend of spices. Below is everything you’ll need to create the cake and its signature cinnamon sugar finish.
For the Cake 🎂
- 3 cups all-purpose flour – Scoop and level to avoid a dense crumb.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – The signature spice of cider donuts.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Adds warm depth and pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1½ tablespoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise evenly.
- 1½ cups granulated sugar – For sweetness and structure.
- ½ cup brown sugar – Adds moisture and caramel-like undertones.
- 1 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender.
- 3 large eggs – At room temperature for better blending.
- 1 cup unsweetened applesauce – Adds moisture and subtle apple flavor without overwhelming the cake.
- 1 cup apple cider – Use fresh, unfiltered cider for the boldest taste.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Rounds out the spiced flavor profile.
🧁 Moisture Tip: The applesauce and oil combo ensures the cake stays soft for days—no dry crumbs here.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating 🍥
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Helps the cinnamon sugar stick to every crevice.
- ¼ cup granulated sugar – Classic coating sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – For that unmistakable donut vibe.
🍩 Optional Add-On: Mix in a pinch of cardamom or cloves to the sugar coating for an even spicier finish.
🥣 Craving a similar cozy treat with bold apple flavor? Try our Raspberry Oatmeal Muffins—perfect for fall brunches and snack breaks.
Instructions 👨🍳🍰
Step-by-Step Baking Directions for the Perfect Apple Cider Bundt Cake
This cake is incredibly easy to put together, and the result is a moist, aromatic bundt that tastes just like your favorite apple cider donut—only bigger, bolder, and baked.
1. Prepare the Pan and Oven 🔧
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Generously grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan, making sure to coat every ridge to prevent sticking.
🧈 Pro Tip: Use a baking spray with flour or a silicone brush dipped in butter + flour for even coverage.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients 🥣
- In a medium bowl, whisk together:
3 cups all-purpose flour,
2 tsp ground cinnamon,
¼ tsp ground nutmeg,
1 tsp salt,
1½ tbsp baking powder.
This spiced mix is the foundation of your donut cake’s warm, cozy flavor.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients 🧁
- In a large mixing bowl, blend:
1½ cups granulated sugar,
½ cup brown sugar,
and 1 cup vegetable oil until smooth. - Add 3 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each.
- Mix in 1 cup applesauce and 1 tsp vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
4. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Cider 🍎
- Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet bowl, alternating with 1 cup of apple cider, starting and ending with dry.
- Stir just until combined—do not overmix.
🎯 Texture Tip: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix until you no longer see streaks of flour.
5. Bake the Cake ⏲️
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to finish cooling.
🍂 Fragrance Bonus: Your kitchen will smell like an apple orchard in October!
6. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Coating ✨
- While the cake is still warm, brush the surface with ¼ cup melted unsalted butter.
- In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup granulated sugar and 2 tsp cinnamon.
- Sprinkle or press the cinnamon sugar mixture onto the cake until it clings to the entire exterior.
🍰 Finish Tip: For maximum coverage, use your hands or a spoon to gently press the sugar mix into the cake’s surface.
🍎 For another warmly spiced dessert with seasonal flair, check out our Sticky Toffee Chia Pudding—a modern twist on classic comfort.
🥗 Nutrition Score 🧮🥄
🧮 Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Slice)
Every comforting bite of this apple cider donut cake delivers warm fall flavors wrapped in a soft, spiced crumb. It’s an indulgent treat, yes—but also one made with real ingredients like reduced apple cider, applesauce, and warm baking spices that make it feel homemade and wholesome. Here’s what you can expect per serving, based on 12 slices:
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 15 oz
- Saturated Fat: 3 oz
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50 oz
- Sugars: 30 oz
- Protein: 4 oz
This apple cider donut cake isn’t just a dessert—it’s a cozy celebration of fall, packed with familiar flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and real apple cider. Whether you enjoy it after dinner or pair it with a mug of hot cider, it hits all the right seasonal notes.
🚫 No Weird Additives
Unlike store-bought cakes that rely on artificial sweeteners and preservatives, this apple cider donut cake is made entirely from scratch with pantry staples and orchard-fresh ingredients. No artificial flavors, no stabilizers—just the real, nostalgic taste you remember from fall fairs and cider mills.
✅ Real Ingredients, Real Comfort
The good news? You can easily make this apple cider donut cake lighter without losing the magic. Simply substitute part of the butter with Greek yogurt or applesauce to reduce the fat content. Need to cut down on sugar? Try using a sugar substitute like monk fruit or coconut sugar.
🍏 Smart Swap Tip: For a guilt-reduced version, swap half the butter with Greek yogurt and use unsweetened applesauce in place of oil. You’ll still get that iconic apple cider donut cake flavor—just a little lighter.
💡 Need something to balance out the sweetness? My Zesty Roasted Beet and Orange Salad is the perfect bright, citrusy contrast.
Serving & Storage 🍽️📦
Serving Suggestions ☕🍰
This apple cider bundt cake is rich in fall flavor and shines on its own or dressed up for special occasions. Here’s how to serve it like a seasonal showstopper:
- Serve warm or at room temperature to enhance the cake’s moist texture and apple-cinnamon aroma.
- Pair it with a mug of hot apple cider, chai tea, or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
- For an indulgent twist, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Dress it up with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze for special occasions or holiday tables.
🍂 Serving Tip: Slice the cake with a serrated knife to preserve its beautiful bundt shape and cinnamon sugar coating.
Storage Tips 🧊
Keep your cake fresh and flavorful with these storage guidelines:
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Extend freshness for up to 1 week—just bring slices to room temp before serving for optimal softness.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.
📝 Reheat Tip: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to revive the cinnamon-sugar aroma and soft crumb.
🍰 Love fall bakes that store well? Don’t miss our Macadamia Nut & Coconut Pancakes with Honey—freezer-friendly and perfect for crisp autumn mornings.
🍎 Variations for Your Apple Cider Donut Cake
🍯🌰 Flavor Enhancements for a Signature Twist
The apple cider donut cake is a fall staple, but it also makes the perfect canvas for creative customizations. With a few thoughtful tweaks, you can elevate this already irresistible dessert into something uniquely your own—whether you’re aiming for more elegance, crunch, or bold flavor.
- Glazed Version 🍥 – Skip the cinnamon-sugar topping and go for a cider glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider. Drizzle it over the cooled apple cider donut cake for that shiny bakery finish and an extra hit of sweetness.
- Nutty Addition 🌰 – Stir in ½ cup of toasted pecans or walnuts to add a delightful crunch and earthiness. It adds contrast to the tender crumb of the cake.
- Spiced Twist 🍂 – Boost the warm spice profile with a pinch of clove, cardamom, or ground ginger in the dry mix. These work beautifully with the cinnamon and nutmeg already in the batter.
🧁 Flavor Boost Tip: For an adult-friendly variation, add 1–2 tablespoons of spiced rum or bourbon to the batter. The depth of flavor pairs wonderfully with the apple notes in the apple cider donut cake.
Craving more fall breakfast ideas? Check out my Peanut Butter Banana Toast with endless topping combos.
🌿 Ingredient Substitutions for Every Diet
No one should miss out on enjoying a homemade apple cider donut cake. Whether you’re baking for dietary needs or just experimenting, here are a few simple swaps that maintain flavor and texture:
- Gluten-Free 🌾 – Replace regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose blend. Be sure to verify that your baking powder and spices are also certified gluten-free for a worry-free version.
- Vegan Option 🌱 – This cake is halfway there already! Swap eggs for flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use a plant-based butter or neutral oil. The applesauce and apple cider keep it soft and moist, even without dairy.
- Low-Sugar 🍬 – Reduce sugar by up to 30% or use natural sweeteners like coconut sugar, stevia blend, or monk fruit. These alternatives help lower the glycemic impact without sacrificing the flavor that makes this apple cider donut cake a fall favorite.
💡 Want to explore more seasonal swaps? Check out the Healthy Fall Baking Substitutes Guide for even more tips.
🙋♀️ FAQs: Apple Cider Donut Cake Questions, Answered
What makes this cake taste like an apple cider donut?
The flavor comes from the combination of fresh apple cider, warm fall spices (like cinnamon and nutmeg), and the cinnamon-sugar coating applied while the cake is still warm. The use of applesauce and brown sugar adds moisture and richness that mimics the texture of a classic cider donut.
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Technically yes, but it won’t deliver the same depth of flavor. Apple cider is unfiltered and often more tart and aromatic than apple juice. If you substitute, opt for unsweetened, unfiltered juice and consider reducing the sugar slightly to avoid making the cake too sweet.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the bundt pan?
Grease every nook of your bundt pan thoroughly with butter or baking spray, then dust it with flour.
Let the cake cool for 15 minutes in the pan before inverting—too soon and it may fall apart; too late and it may stick.
Pan Tip: Silicone or nonstick pans can help, but always coat them just as carefully.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! It actually gets better the next day as the flavors settle and intensify.
Store it tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want to make it days ahead, freeze the baked (uncoated) cake, then thaw and coat with cinnamon sugar before serving.
How do I get the most apple cider flavor in my apple cider donut cake?
The key to bold, unmistakable flavor is reducing the apple cider before adding it to your batter. Simmering it down from 1½ cups to ½ cup intensifies the sweetness and tartness, giving the apple cider donut cake that unmistakable orchard-fresh taste. I also recommend using unfiltered cider for an even deeper flavor—skip the clear juice and go for cloudy, raw cider whenever possible.
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider in my donut cake?
Technically, yes—but it won’t deliver the same spiced, robust character that apple cider brings. Apple juice is usually pasteurized and filtered, resulting in a lighter, less complex flavor. For a true apple cider donut cake, cider is the way to go.
Why do I need to reduce the apple cider?
Reducing the cider creates a syrupy concentrate that punches up both flavor and aroma without flooding your batter with excess liquid. Skipping this step can lead to a flatter-tasting, soggier cake. If you’re short on time, you can reduce a large batch of cider ahead of time and refrigerate it for future baking.
What’s the secret to the perfect cinnamon-sugar topping?
Timing! After baking your apple cider donut cake, let it cool just enough to handle. Then brush the outside with melted butter and immediately coat it in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. Doing this while the cake is still warm ensures the coating sticks beautifully and adds that classic donut-like crunch.
How long does an apple cider donut cake stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, your apple cider donut cake will stay moist and flavorful for up to 4 days. You can also refrigerate it to extend its shelf life, but let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Can I freeze apple cider donut cake?
Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking powder and other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Some readers also recommend adding a teaspoon of xanthan gum for improved structure when swapping out wheat flour.
🎯 Conclusion 🍂🎂
Apple Cider Donut Cake: A Slice of Fall in Every Bite
The apple cider donut cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a nostalgic celebration of crisp leaves, cider mills, and the first breath of sweater weather. With its tender crumb, cozy spiced aroma, and crunchy cinnamon-sugar crust, this cake captures everything magical about autumn in one delicious slice.
Whether you’re baking for a family brunch, prepping a potluck dessert, or just craving something warm and homey on a rainy day, this apple cider donut cake fits every occasion. It offers the familiar taste of your favorite fall fair donut, but without the hassle or mess of deep frying. All you need is a bundt pan and a love of seasonal flavors.
It’s easy to see why this recipe has become a staple across kitchens nationwide. From New England orchards to California coffee tables, the apple cider donut cake has earned its spot as a go-to fall bake. It’s simple, cozy, and endlessly adaptable—ideal for both beginners and seasoned bakers alike.
🍁 Want more bundt cake inspiration that captures fall in every bite? Don’t miss my Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake—a cinnamon-forward, pumpkin-packed twist that’s perfect for Thanksgiving brunch or chilly weekend mornings.
So go ahead—pour yourself a mug of hot cider, preheat the oven, and let the scent of this apple cider donut cake fill your kitchen. Because some traditions are too delicious not to bake again and again.