Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

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Few desserts capture fall’s spirit the way an apple cider donut does. Now imagine all that cozy flavor and inviting aroma transformed into a tender, cinnamon-sugar–coated cake. This Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake brings together everything you love about orchard treats in a beautiful, sliceable form. With the soft crumb from applesauce, the deep flavor from apple cider, and a crisp cinnamon sugar crust, this cake celebrates autumn in every forkful.

Why Bake This Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake?

Baking this cake is more than just making dessert—it’s about sharing an experience. Whether you’re planning a brunch, after-school snack, or special weekend breakfast, the combination of apple and spice delights at any table. The ingredients are easy to find, the steps are approachable, and the aroma alone feels like a celebration.

Every bite delivers warm notes of brown sugar, apple, nutmeg, and cinnamon. The cake is light, moist, and stays fresh for days with the addition of oil and applesauce. The real highlight? A buttery cinnamon sugar crust that mimics the classic finish of your favorite orchard donut.

Ingredients for the Perfect Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

Gather your ingredients before you start. Using high-quality components—especially the apple cider—gives your cake an edge.

Moisture Base

• Apple Cider: Reduced apple cider brings a concentrated tart-sweet flavor.
• Applesauce: Adds moisture and subtle apple undertones.

Structure and Lift

• All-purpose flour: Ensures a light but sturdy crumb.
• Baking powder & baking soda: Together, they create perfect lift.
• Salt: Brings out natural flavors.

Warmth and Sweetness

• Granulated sugar: For sweetness and structure.
• Brown sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel.

Spices

• Ground cinnamon: The core of the flavor.
• Ground nutmeg: For subtle warmth.
• Optional allspice or apple pie spice: Adds complexity.

Fat and Binding

• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist longer than butter.
• Large eggs: Provide structure and bind everything together.

Flavor Enhancer

• Pure vanilla extract: Rounds out the sweetness.

For the Donut-Like Finish

• Unsalted butter (melted): Helps the sugar mixture adhere.
• Cinnamon-sugar mixture: Classic donut flavor and a crisp finish.

Method: Step-By-Step Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

Prepare the Apple Cider

Pro tip: Boil 2 cups of apple cider until it reduces to about 1 cup. This condenses flavor for a more pronounced apple presence in your finished cake.

• Preheat Oven

• Set your oven to 325°F (163°C).

• Generously grease and flour a 10–12 cup bundt pan. Make sure all crevices are covered to prevent sticking.

• Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a large bowl, whisk together:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon allspice or apple pie spice (optional)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt

• Mix Wet Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, beat:

  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup packed light brown sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil

• Add:

  • 3 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup reduced apple cider (cooled to room temperature)

• Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

• Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients in batches, mixing on low just until combined. Overmixing leads to a tough cake, so stop when the batter comes together.

• Batter will be thick. Scrape sides and bottom to catch any unmixed flour pockets.

• Bake

• Pour batter evenly into prepared bundt pan. Smooth top with a spatula for an even rise.

• Bake 50–60 minutes. When a skewer comes out clean, the cake is ready.

• Cool in pan for 20–25 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack.

• Apply Cinnamon Sugar Coating

• While cake is still slightly warm, brush entire surface with ½ cup melted unsalted butter.

• In a shallow pan, mix 1 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon.
• Sprinkle or press cinnamon sugar all around the surface, rotating the cake. For a thicker crust, repeat the process once the first layer sets.

Variations and Add-Ins

Want to tailor your cake? Here are options to personalize your bake:

• Nuts: Fold in 1 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch.
• Fruit: Add up to 1 cup grated apple for extra apple texture.
• Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar with a little apple cider for a drizzle that amps up apple notes.
• Caramel Drizzle: Finish with a thin pour of warm caramel sauce for richness.
• Spice Mix: Swap spices for a pre-blended apple pie spice or add a pinch of cardamom.

Storage and Freezing

This cake lasts several days, retaining its tender crumb thanks to oil and applesauce.

At Room Temperature

• Store cooled cake in an airtight container for up to four days.
• The sugar crust will stay crisp if well-sealed.

Refrigeration

• For longer keeping, refrigerate cake for up to one week.
• Let slices come to room temperature before serving for best texture.

Freezing

• Tightly wrap uncoated cake in two layers of plastic wrap, followed by foil.
• Freeze for up to three months.
• Thaw overnight in the fridge. Add the butter and cinnamon sugar coating after thawing, just before serving for maximum crunch and flavor.

Troubleshooting and Tips for Success

Grease the pan well: Bundt cakes can stick to decorative pans—use a pastry brush to get into every nook.

Use room-temperature ingredients: Even mixing ensures a uniform crumb.

Don’t overmix: Stir just until the dry ingredients disappear. If unsure, finish blending by hand.

Bake low and slow: 325°F gives the interior time to cook through without drying the edges.

Let the cake cool before coating: Warm, but not hot, cake ensures the butter absorbs without melting the sugar.

Make ahead: The flavors develop overnight. If possible, bake the day before serving and coat just before presenting.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy a thick slice with a mug of spiced tea, black coffee, or mulled cider. This cake shines on its own, but it’s also delightful warmed slightly and served with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. During holidays, it makes a comforting alternative to pie. For brunch, offer alongside fresh apple slices and sharp cheddar for a classic pairing.

Ingredient Table

The Essence of Fall, in Cake Form

Every layer of this Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake has a purpose—from the reduced cider to the cinnamon sugar shell. The cake brings a bit of apple orchard magic wherever you are. It’s the kind of recipe that reminds you why baking at home satisfies both the palate and the spirit.

Enjoy the crackle of the sugar coating and the comforting crumb inside. Whether you bake it for a celebration or a quiet afternoon, this cake offers all the comfort of fall—no matter the time of year.