If you’re dreaming of a cozy dessert that captures all the warm, spicy goodness of fall, look no further than this delightful Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake Recipe. This cake perfectly blends the tender crumb of a classic bundt with the irresistible flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and real apple cider, creating that nostalgic donut-inspired taste in a sliceable, shareable form. With its perfectly spiced batter, buttery cinnamon-sugar crust, and moist texture, this cake feels like a celebration of autumn in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just treating yourself on a crisp afternoon, this recipe is bound to become a treasured favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s so fantastic about this Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake Recipe is how it brings together simple, everyday ingredients that each play a starring role. The combination of spices, apple cider, and buttermilk gives the cake its moist texture and layered flavors, while quality butter and fresh eggs keep it rich and tender. Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this autumnal marvel:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of your cake’s tender crumb and structure.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and remain fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the buttermilk to give a light, airy texture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic warm spice that defines the cake’s autumn character.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice: Brings a complex spice note reminiscent of mixed fall spices.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors, balancing sweetness and spice.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Keeps the cake moist and lends richness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens perfectly without overpowering the spices.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add protein for structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out flavors with a sweet, aromatic touch.
- 1 cup apple cider: Infuses the cake with fresh apple flavor and moisture.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Reacts with baking soda for a tender crumb while adding tanginess.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for topping): Helps the cinnamon-sugar topping stick and adds lusciousness.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for topping): Provides a sweet, crunchy crust.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping): Intensifies that cozy spice coating on top.
How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start your baking adventure by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your bundt pan carefully—this little step guarantees your cake will release effortlessly once baked, perfectly preserving its beautiful shape and allowing that sugar-cinnamon topping to shine evenly around every curve.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. This spice blend is where the magic begins, creating the cake’s signature donut-like aroma and flavor that will make your kitchen smell like fall heaven.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a larger bowl, beat the softened butter with sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, paving the way for a soft, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Slowly add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure each egg is fully integrated. Then, mix in the vanilla extract for that classic sweet warmth that ties the cake’s flavors together.
Step 5: Mix Apple Cider and Buttermilk
In a separate container, combine apple cider and buttermilk. This mixture not only adds moisture but also a tangy, fruity brightness that balances the sweet spices marvelously.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients and the cider mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating between the two. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Stir gently just until everything is incorporated; overmixing can make the cake tough, and we want it tender and soft.
Step 7: Pour Batter and Bake
Pour your luscious batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Pop it into the oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—your home will transform as the aroma of apple and spices fills the air.
Step 8: Cool and Finish with Topping
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. This resting time helps the cake set so it won’t break when you turn it out. Invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely. After cooling, brush the entire surface with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping over the cake, pressing lightly so it adheres and forms that perfect crunchy crust reminiscent of apple cider donuts.
How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet charming finish, consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts like pecans can add lovely texture and a complementary flavor to enhance the cozy celebration of this cake.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added creaminess. Serve alongside a hot cup of spiced tea or fresh brewed coffee to fully embrace that comforting fall vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve slices of this Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake Recipe on rustic wooden boards with autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks as décor. For a festive touch, add a light glaze of maple syrup or drizzle with cream cheese icing. Presentation can turn any simple serving into an elegant dessert moment.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This delicious bundt cake keeps wonderfully at room temperature for a couple of days when covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. The cinnamon-sugar topping stays crispier if you avoid refrigeration initially, but the cake will remain moist and flavorful for days.
Freezing
You can freeze slices of the Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake Recipe wrapped well in plastic wrap and sealed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, preserving that fresh-baked flavor and texture.
Reheating
Warm your slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or wrap them in foil and heat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This refreshes the cake’s moistness and enhances the cozy cinnamon aroma, reviving that just-baked feeling.
FAQs
Can I use fresh apple juice instead of apple cider?
Absolutely! Fresh apple juice can be a great substitute, though it might be a bit sweeter and less spiced than traditional cider, so you may want to adjust the spices slightly to keep that warm apple cider donut vibe.
Do I need to soak the bundt pan with butter and flour, or is cooking spray enough?
While cooking spray can work, coating the bundt pan with butter and flour is the best way to ensure the cake releases perfectly and keeps the topping intact, especially with this sugary cinnamon crust.
Can I make this a lower sugar recipe?
You can reduce the sugar slightly, but keep in mind that the sugar is also part of the topping that gives the cake its signature crunch and sweetness. Cutting too much sugar might affect both the texture and flavor balance.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a good-quality gluten-free flour blend, you can make this bundt cake gluten-free. Just be mindful that the texture might vary slightly depending on the blend you use.
Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this recipe?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries sprinkled into the batter add delightful texture and seasonal flavors that complement the apple cider and spices beautifully.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking an Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake Recipe that instantly fills your kitchen with warmth and joy. From the first bite, you’ll be hooked on its tender crumb and that irresistible crunch of cinnamon sugar on top. It’s the perfect cake to bring a little extra magic to your day or to share with loved ones during cozy get-togethers. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become a beloved staple for every fall season to come. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and bake up a slice of autumn happiness today!
Print
Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 0h 50m
- Total Time: 1h 10m
- Yield: 10-12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake is a moist, tender cake infused with warm fall spices and apple cider, topped with a cinnamon-sugar coating that mimics the classic apple cider donut flavor. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a cozy dessert, it combines the nostalgic taste of cider donuts with the ease of a bundt cake.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Topping
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan to prevent sticking and ensure easy release of the cake.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Set aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps create a tender texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Liquids: In a separate bowl or measuring cup, mix together the apple cider and buttermilk thoroughly.
- Incorporate Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture and the cider-buttermilk mixture alternately to the creamed butter and sugar, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Pour Batter Into Pan: Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula for even baking.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely, preventing sticking and breaking.
- Apply Butter Coating: Once the cake is cool, brush the entire surface with the melted butter to prepare for the topping.
- Add Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Mix granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over the butter-coated cake, pressing lightly so it adheres and creates a delicious, sweet crust reminiscent of apple cider donuts.
Notes
- Be sure to use fresh apple cider for the best flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and avoid toughness.
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before applying the butter and sugar topping to prevent melting and sogginess.
- You can substitute buttermilk with a mixture of milk and vinegar or lemon juice if needed.
- This cake stores well covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or can be frozen for longer storage.
