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Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe

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4 from 69 reviews

This Apple Cider Donut Cake combines the moistness of cake with the warm flavors of cider and cinnamon, delivering a delightful treat reminiscent of classic apple cider donuts. Easy to prepare with pantry staples and baked in a bundt pan, it’s perfect for fall gatherings or cozy desserts.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 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 (cinnamon flavored, not chunky)
  • 3 large eggs (room temperature)
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Topping

  • 2 tablespoons cinnamon (for topping, adjust to preference)
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup melted butter (for brushing topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the right temperature by the time your batter is ready.
  2. Prepare the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the yellow or spice cake mix, apple cider, cinnamon apple sauce, and eggs until smooth. Add the cinnamon (starting with ¼ tsp), brown sugar, and vanilla extract into the batter and mix well. Adjust cinnamon amount according to your taste preference.
  3. Grease the Bundt Pan: Thoroughly grease and flour your bundt pan; using Baker’s Joy or a similar non-stick spray with flour is recommended to prevent sticking.
  4. Bake the Cake: Pour batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Place it on the center rack of the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. Remove from oven and allow to cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes.
  5. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Topping: While the cake cools, mix together cinnamon and granulated sugar in a separate bowl.
  6. Apply Topping: Once cooled, brush the entire surface of the cake with melted butter. Evenly rub the cinnamon sugar mixture all over the buttered cake to coat completely, enhancing flavor and creating a delicious crust.

Notes

  • If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, increase cinnamon in the batter and topping as desired.
  • Do not substitute apple cider with apple juice or apple cider vinegar as it changes the taste and texture significantly.
  • Room temperature eggs help create a smooth batter and better rise.
  • Bakers Joy spray or greased and floured pan helps ensure the cake releases easily without breaking.
  • The cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making it ideal for fall or holiday seasons.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American