Apple Cider Donut Cake is like a cozy fall day baked into a single sweet treat. It combines the warm flavors of apple cider with the soft, cakey texture of a donut, all in one delicious cake. You get that perfect balance of cinnamon-spiced apple goodness and a tender crumb that’s just begging to be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.
I love making this cake when the weather starts to cool down because it fills the kitchen with such a comforting scent that makes everyone gather around. One of my favorite things is how easy it is to share—no need to worry about frying donuts or waiting for the perfect batch. Just slice it up and watch smiles appear. I usually add a simple glaze on top to give it a little extra sweetness and that classic donut feel.
This cake feels like a little celebration of fall, and I often bring it to friends or family get-togethers. It’s the kind of recipe that sparks good conversations and warm memories. If you’re a fan of apple cider and cinnamon, this cake will quickly become one of your go-to cozy treats!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Cider: Fresh apple cider adds natural sweetness and a subtle tang. If you can’t find cider, apple juice works too but might be a bit sweeter and less complex. I like using unfiltered cider for the best flavor.
Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level. You can swap it for coconut oil if you want a dairy-free option, but the flavor changes slightly.
Sour Cream: This keeps the cake moist and tender. If you don’t have sour cream, plain yogurt is a good substitute. It keeps that moisture without changing texture too much.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg give the cake its warm, cozy flavor. You can add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a deeper spice profile, or adjust quantities to your taste.
Cinnamon Sugar Coating: This coating is key to mimicking the apple cider donut feel. I like adding a bit of apple pie spice for extra warmth, but simple cinnamon sugar works just fine.
How Do You Get the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Coating on the Cake?
Getting that cinnamon sugar to stick on the cake and taste just right is the trick here. The key is to apply it while the cake is still warm but handled carefully.
- Cool the cake for 10-15 minutes before removing it from the pan so it’s firm but still warm.
- Use a pastry brush or clean hands to lightly brush melted butter all over the cake’s surface. This makes the cinnamon sugar stick well and adds flavor.
- Sprinkle or gently press the cinnamon sugar mix evenly on the cake. Don’t wait too long, as it sticks best while the cake is warm.
- Let the cake cool completely to let the coating set before slicing. This helps avoid losing the sugar when cutting.
Following these steps gives you a lovely sugary crust that feels just like biting into an apple cider donut. It’s the simple touch that makes this cake special!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Bundt pan or tube pan – I like this because it creates a beautiful shape and helps the cake cook evenly.
- Mixing bowls – for whisking the dry ingredients and mixing the wet ingredients separately makes everything easier.
- Whisk or electric mixer – helps you combine the batter smoothly and get a light, airy texture.
- Pastry brush – ideal for brushing melted butter onto the warm cake to help the cinnamon sugar stick.
- Cooling rack – lets the cake cool evenly before applying the coating without getting soggy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Fold in chopped apples or walnuts into the batter for extra texture and flavor, great for a more hearty cake.
- Swap the cinnamon sugar coating for a caramel glaze or cream cheese frosting for a richer finish.
- Add a teaspoon of ginger or clove to the spice mix to deepen the warm flavors.
- Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for a tart burst that pairs well with the apple cider.
Apple Cider Donut Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 ½ cups apple cider
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp apple pie spice (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cake takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 45-55 minutes to bake. Add extra time for cooling and applying the cinnamon sugar coating, about 15-20 minutes. In total, plan for around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt or tube pan well to keep the cake from sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set this aside for now.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and pale, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
4. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredient mix to the wet ingredients, alternating with the apple cider and sour cream. Start and end with the dry mixture. Mix gently and only until everything is just combined—overmixing can make the cake tough.
5. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating
While the cake bakes, mix the granulated sugar, cinnamon, and apple pie spice (if using) in a shallow dish. This will be used to coat the cake.
7. Cool and Coat the Cake
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack. While still warm, brush the cake lightly with melted butter using a pastry brush or your hands. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture all over the cake for that classic apple cider donut flavor and texture.
8. Final Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely so the cinnamon-sugar coating sets well. Then slice and enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake!
Can I Use Apple Juice Instead of Apple Cider?
Yes, you can substitute apple juice if you don’t have cider. Keep in mind apple juice is usually sweeter and less robust in flavor, so your cake might taste a bit different but still delicious.
How Should I Store Leftover Cake?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days and bring to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture.
Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend to replace regular flour. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well for best results.
Is It Possible to Make This Cake Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil, and swap the sour cream for dairy-free yogurt or a plant-based sour cream alternative.