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.

You’ll Fall in Love With This Apple Cider Donut Cake – 5 Delicious Reasons Why

Name: You’ll Fall in Love With This Apple Cider Donut Cake – 5 Delicious Reasons Why
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
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

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

Scale

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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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