There’s something magical about the transition from summer to fall, especially when it comes to comfort food. One treat that encapsulates the essence of the season is the delightful Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake. Soft, moist, and infused with the warm spices reminiscent of a crisp autumn day, this cake takes all the familiar flavors of a classic apple cider donut and turns them into a scrumptious bundt version that’s bound to impress.

Table of Contents

Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

The first time I baked this cake, my house filled with the most inviting aroma that swept through the rooms like an autumn breeze. Every slice is a perfect blend of nostalgic flavors—sweet apple cider, comforting spice, and a delectable crumb that makes it impossible to resist. Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon at home, this Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake feels like a warm hug in dessert form.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip up this cake in under an hour, making it perfect for any day!
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with the flavor of fresh apple cider and spices.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The beautiful bundt shape makes it an impressive centerpiece on any table.
Flexible Serving: Great for brunch, dessert, or a cozy snack with coffee.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free lifestyles by swapping the flour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 cups all-purpose flour: This creates the structure of the cake. If you’re gluten-free, a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend makes a great substitute.
3 cups granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and moisture. You can use a smaller amount or try coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option.
4 teaspoons baking powder: This gives the cake a lovely rise. Make sure it’s fresh for best results.
4 teaspoons apple pie spice: A blend of spices that brings warmth and flavor. You can substitute it with cinnamon and a bit of nutmeg if needed.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors in the cake.
2 ½ cups apple cider (or apple juice): The star ingredient that provides flavor and moisture.
2 large eggs: Helps bind the ingredients together. Room temperature eggs work best.
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a nice texture. For a dairy-free option, try coconut oil.
2 tablespoons vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a sweet aroma. Pure vanilla gives the best flavor.
¼ cup apple cider: For brushing on top after baking, adding extra moisture and taste.
½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the topping, creating a delightful crust that captures that donut feel.
2 teaspoons apple pie spice: This is for sprinkling on top, just like you’d find on a delicious donut.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Generously grease a 10 to 12 cup Bundt pan with baking spray containing flour or simply with butter and flour. Proper greasing ensures your cake releases beautifully from the pan.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, 3 cups granulated sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt until well combined.
Combine wet ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups apple cider, 2 large eggs, melted butter, and 2 tablespoons vanilla extract until smoothly mixed.
Blend the mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix; it’s okay if the batter is slightly thin.
Fill the Bundt pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan. Use a spatula to smooth out the top.
Bake: Place the Bundt in the oven and bake for 50 to 65 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the thickest part; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Start checking at the 50-minute mark.
Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. This helps it firm up and makes for easier removal.
Brush with apple cider: Carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack while still warm and brush or drizzle with the ¼ cup apple cider, soaking the top.
Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix ½ cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons apple pie spice. While the cake is still warm, generously sprinkle this mixture over the entire surface, gently pressing to adhere. Rotate the cake to ensure even coverage.
Cool completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This helps it set perfectly for serving.

Storing & Reheating

To store your Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake, cover it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. For freezing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. To enjoy again, thaw at room temperature, and pop it in a warm oven for a few minutes to refresh its lovely texture and flavor.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Be sure to check the freshness of your baking powder. Old baking powder can lead to dense cakes.
Let your eggs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before using; this helps them blend better into the batter.
If your batter seems too thick, a little extra cider can help loosen it up.
Don’t be afraid to customize! Add chopped apples or nuts for a fun twist.
If you plan to make this a day in advance, consider waiting to sprinkle the sugar until you’re ready to serve.

Nothing beats the cozy feeling of enjoying a slice of this Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake with a hot drink, perhaps while cozying up with a favorite book or catching up with friends. The marriage of apple cider and spices creates a wonderfully nostalgic experience that warms the heart.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Absolutely! Apple juice will work well in this recipe, though apple cider gives a deeper flavor profile that enhances the cake’s overall taste.

Can the cake be made gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a blend that contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

How do I know when my cake is done baking?

Check the cake for doneness using a toothpick. Insert it into the thickest part of the cake; it should come out with a few moist crumbs but no batter. If it’s still wet, give it another few minutes in the oven.

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

You can serve it plain or with a drizzle of icing for extra sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with coffee or spiced tea and is perfect for sharing during fall gatherings.

More Desserts & Appetizers Recipes

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

Author: Dorothy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50-65 minutes
Total Time: 0 hours
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Category: Desserts & Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Print Recipe

Description

This Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake is a delightful treat with its cozy spices and rich apple flavor. Easy to prepare, it’s an ideal dessert for gatherings or a cozy afternoon at home.

Ingredients

Scale

4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour
3 cups (600 g) granulated sugar
4 teaspoons baking powder
4 teaspoons apple pie spice
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 ½ cups apple cider, or apple juice
2 large eggs, room temperature
¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
¼ cup apple cider
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
2 teaspoons apple pie spice

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 10 to 12 cup Bundt pan with baking spray containing flour or butter and flour.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, apple pie spice, and salt using a whisk.
In a different bowl, whisk together the apple cider, eggs, melted butter, and vanilla until fully combined.
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently until just combined. The batter will be a bit thin, so do not overmix.
Transfer the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan.
Bake for 50 to 65 minutes, checking at 50 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the thickest part comes out with a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a wire rack.
While the cake is still warm, brush or drizzle the ¼ cup of apple cider evenly over the top.
Combine the remaining sugar and apple pie spice in a small bowl. Sprinkle this mixture over the warm cake, gently pressing it into the surface for even coverage.
Wait for the cake to cool completely before slicing.

Notes

Ensure you do not overmix the batter to keep the cake fluffy.
Feel free to substitute apple cider with apple juice if necessary.
For an extra touch, serve with a glaze or whipped cream.