Our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delightful treat that brings the warm flavors of fall to your table. This cake is perfect for cozy gatherings, festive celebrations, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee. With its moist texture and sweet apple cider glaze, this cake stands out as a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: The use of a cake mix simplifies preparation, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Flavorful and Moist: The combination of apple cider and applesauce ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it at brunch, dessert, or as an afternoon snack—this cake fits any occasion.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: The cinnamon sugar coating adds a sweet crunch that enhances the overall taste.
- Impressive Presentation: Baking it in a bundt pan gives it a beautiful shape that is perfect for impressing guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, gather the essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan: This unique shape not only looks great but helps the cake bake evenly.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows for easy mixing without spills, ensuring all ingredients combine well.
- Electric mixer or whisk: These tools help achieve a smooth batter quickly, saving time and effort.
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
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 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 it’s ready for baking once your batter is mixed.
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 the cinnamon (¼ tsp), brown sugar, and vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured bundt pan.
- Place the bundt pan on the center rack of your preheated oven.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the middle; if it comes out clean, it’s ready.
- Once baked, remove from heat and allow to cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together cinnamon with sugar for coating.
Step 5: Coat the Cake
Once cooled:
1. Brush the entire surface of the cake with melted butter.
2. Rub the cinnamon sugar mixture over the cake 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 both you and your guests. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon, these suggestions will help you create the perfect presentation.
With Coffee
- A warm cup of coffee pairs excellently with the sweet, spiced flavors of the cake. The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness perfectly.
Ice Cream Topping
- Adding a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream on top creates a delightful contrast in texture and temperature, making each bite even more satisfying.
Fresh Fruit
- Serve with slices of fresh apples or pears for a refreshing touch that complements the apple cider flavors in the cake.
Whipped Cream
- Lightly dollop some whipped cream on each slice for added creaminess. This makes the dessert feel even more indulgent.
Nuts Sprinkled On Top
- Chopped pecans or walnuts can add crunch and depth to each bite, enhancing both flavor and texture.
Drizzle of Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of caramel adds an extra layer of sweetness and pairs beautifully with the spices in the cake.
How to Perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
To achieve the best version of your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, consider these simple tips that will enhance flavor and texture.
- Use fresh apple cider: Fresh cider enhances the flavor profile, making your cake more aromatic.
- Check oven temperature: Ensure your oven is correctly calibrated to avoid undercooking or overbaking.
- Let it cool completely: Allowing the cake to cool fully before glazing helps prevent sogginess.
- Experiment with spices: Adjusting cinnamon levels can tailor the spice intensity to suit your taste preferences.
- Use high-quality butter: For richer flavor, choose a good quality butter when brushing on melted butter before adding cinnamon sugar.
- Store properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can create a balanced meal experience. Here are some delightful options:
- Spiced Apple Compote: A warm apple compote infused with cinnamon adds a delicious tartness that complements the sweet cake.
- Maple Pecan Salad: This salad combines mixed greens, candied pecans, and a maple vinaigrette for a nutty contrast.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie will provide savory notes against the sweetness of the cake.
- Gingerbread Cookies: These cookies bring warmth and spice that harmonize well with apple cider flavors.
- Caramelized Pears: Sweet caramelized pears offer a delightful pairing that enhances fruit notes found in the cake.
- Hot Chocolate: A rich cup of hot chocolate is comforting and pairs well with any dessert, especially during colder months.
- Chai Tea: The spiced notes in chai tea echo those in your cake, creating a lovely drink option alongside dessert.
- Vanilla Yogurt Parfait: Layering yogurt with granola and fruit provides a light yet satisfying complement to finish off your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking an Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong liquids: Make sure to use apple cider and not apple juice or vinegar. The flavor of your cake will suffer if you substitute these ingredients.
- Skipping room temperature ingredients: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and a better texture.
- Not greasing the pan properly: A well-greased bundt pan is crucial for easy removal. Use a non-stick spray like Baker’s Joy for best results.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, which is not what you want for this fluffy dessert.
- Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Check your cake with a toothpick around the 40-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
- Wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap before placing it in a freezer bag.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making an Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.
Can I use homemade apple cider?
Yes! Homemade apple cider works great and adds more personal flavor to your cake.
What can I substitute if I don’t have apple sauce?
You can use mashed bananas or yogurt as a substitute for apple sauce, though it may slightly alter the taste.
How do I make my Apple Cider Doughnut Cake gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of regular flour-based mixes, ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I add nuts or fruit?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or diced apples would add texture and flavor to your cake.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, changing spices, or even glazing it differently. We encourage you to try this recipe; it’s perfect for cozy gatherings or simply enjoying at home with loved ones!
Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Indulge in the comforting flavors of fall with our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake. This moist and flavorful cake combines the essence of fresh apple cider with a delightful cinnamon sugar topping, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this delicious bundt cake will surely impress your guests and leave everyone craving more. Easy to prepare using a cake mix, it’s accessible for bakers of all levels and can be served with coffee, ice cream, or fresh fruit for an elevated experience. Bake this delightful dessert today and bring the warmth of autumn to your table!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 box Yellow or Spice Cake Mix
- 1 cup Apple Cider
- ½ cup Applesauce
- 3 large Eggs
- ¼ tsp Cinnamon
- 2 tbsp Cinnamon (for coating)
- ¼ cup Sugar (for coating)
- ¼ cup Melted Butter (for coating)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, apple cider, applesauce, and eggs; mix until just combined.
- Add cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract; blend gently.
- Pour the batter into a greased bundt pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let it cool for 20 minutes before removing from the pan.
- For the coating, mix cinnamon and sugar in a bowl. Brush the cooled cake with melted butter and coat with cinnamon sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (70g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
