Apple Cider Donut Cake

There are flavors that immediately pull you back to certain moments, and apple cider is one of those for me.

The first sip of warm cider on a cool day feels like an instant reminder that the season has truly changed.

Now, instead of drinking it, I like baking it into a cake that fills the kitchen with the same cozy aroma you’d get at a farm stand.

This apple cider donut cake is golden, tender, and rolled in a crisp cinnamon-sugar coating that makes each bite taste like a fresh donut pulled straight from a bakery.

It’s the kind of cake you set in the middle of the table and watch everyone reach for seconds without hesitation.

The apple cider isn’t just poured in as it is—it’s simmered down slowly until it turns rich and bold, and that’s what gives the cake its depth of flavor.

Paired with warm spices and a buttery crumb, it has all the charm of a donut but with the presence of a cake.

Slice it thick, serve it with coffee or tea, and let it remind you how a simple homemade dessert can turn an ordinary day into something worth savoring.

Table of Contents

Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups apple cider
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
3 large eggs, room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature

For The Coating

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Pour the apple cider into a saucepan and simmer over medium heat until reduced to about 1 cup. This intensifies the flavor and keeps the cake from being too watery. Let it cool completely before using.
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease and lightly flour a bundt pan, making sure all the curves are well coated so the cake releases easily.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt until evenly combined.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Mix in the reduced apple cider and sour cream until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix, as it can make the cake dense.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack.
While the cake is still slightly warm, brush the entire surface with melted butter.
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon for the coating. Sprinkle or gently press the mixture all over the cake until fully covered.
Let the cake cool completely before slicing. Serve plain, with coffee, or alongside fresh apple slices for a true autumn experience.

What Is Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Apple cider donut cake is a bundt-style cake inspired by classic apple cider donuts. It has a moist, tender crumb with the warm taste of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple cider.

The outside is brushed with butter and coated in cinnamon sugar, which gives it the same texture and flavor as donuts but in a larger, shareable form. It’s a homestyle dessert that feels nostalgic and festive.

Why Is Apple Cider Reduced Before Adding To The Cake?

The apple cider is simmered down so that its flavor becomes concentrated. If you add it without reducing, the liquid would water down the batter and the taste would be very mild. Reducing it to about half makes the cake rich and deep in flavor.

What Kind Of Apple Cider Should I Use?

Not all apple ciders taste the same, and choosing the right one makes a difference.

Fresh pressed apple cider: Best choice because it has natural sweetness and a bold apple taste.
Filtered apple cider: Works fine, but flavor is lighter.
Apple juice: Can be used if cider isn’t available, but reduce it a little longer to get more concentrated taste.

Always avoid sparkling cider, as the carbonation can change the texture of the batter.

Can I Make Apple Cider Donut Cake Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake in advance. Bake the cake and let it cool fully before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap.

For best taste, coat it with butter and cinnamon sugar just before serving. This way the outside stays slightly crisp instead of becoming soft.

How Should I Store Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Storing the cake correctly keeps it moist and flavorful.

Room temperature: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps the cake fresh for up to 5 days, but always bring it to room temperature before serving so it tastes soft.
Freezer: Wrap the cake in plastic and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and coat with fresh cinnamon sugar before serving.

Can I Add Apples Into The Cake Batter?

Yes, you can add apples if you like extra texture. Use peeled and finely diced apples that bake down easily.

Tart apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp balance well with the sweetness of the cake. Fold them gently into the batter so they don’t sink to the bottom.

What Can I Serve With Apple Cider Donut Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with both hot and cold drinks, making it versatile for any gathering.

Coffee or espresso: The bold flavor balances the sweetness of the cake.
Hot apple cider: A double boost of apple flavor for fall.
Vanilla ice cream: Adds creaminess and contrast when served warm.
Whipped cream: A light topping that complements the cake’s spices.

Can I Use A Different Pan Instead Of A Bundt Pan?

Yes, the batter can be baked in other pans, but baking times may change.

Loaf pans: Works well, but may need 10–15 extra minutes of baking.
9×13 inch pan: Bakes evenly but doesn’t have the same look as a bundt.
Cupcake pan: Turns the recipe into apple cider muffins or cupcakes, which bake faster, usually around 18–20 minutes.

Why Is The Cake Coated In Butter And Cinnamon Sugar?

The butter helps the cinnamon sugar stick to the cake, creating that classic donut-like texture. Without the butter, the sugar coating would fall off. This step makes the cake feel closer to eating a fresh apple cider donut.

Can I Make Apple Cider Donut Cake Without Eggs?

Yes, it can be made egg-free by using substitutes. Each egg can be replaced with one of these options:

1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water

The texture will be slightly denser, but the flavor remains delicious.

How Do I Keep The Cake Moist?

Moisture in this cake comes from the sour cream, butter, and reduced cider. To prevent it from drying out, avoid overbaking.

Always test with a toothpick a few minutes before the recommended bake time. Storing it in an airtight container also helps lock in freshness.

Can I Use Homemade Apple Cider For This Cake?

Yes, homemade apple cider is an excellent choice because it often has stronger apple flavor without added preservatives.

If you make it yourself, just remember to strain it well so no pulp or spice sediment ends up in the batter. Reducing homemade cider will make the cake taste even more natural and fragrant.

What Spices Work Best In Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Spices are the backbone of the flavor, and they should be balanced carefully.

Cinnamon: Gives warmth and depth, the most important spice for this cake.
Nutmeg: Adds a nutty, slightly sweet aroma.
Allspice: Provides a mild clove-like flavor that enhances cider.
Cloves or ginger (optional): Can be added for stronger spiced flavor, but use sparingly so they don’t overpower the cake.

Using freshly ground spices will always create a bolder, fresher taste.

How Do I Prevent The Cake From Sticking To The Bundt Pan?

Bundt pans are known for sticking because of their intricate designs. Proper preparation ensures your cake comes out clean and beautiful.

Grease generously: Use softened butter or a baking spray with flour, covering every curve and corner.
Dust lightly with flour: After greasing, tap out any excess flour to avoid clumps.
Cool slightly before removing: Let the cake rest for about 15 minutes before inverting. This allows steam to loosen the edges.

Why Do I Need Sour Cream In The Batter?

Sour cream adds richness and moisture while balancing sweetness with a slight tang.

Without it, the cake might taste flat or dry. Yogurt can also be used as a substitute, but sour cream tends to give the softest crumb.

Can I Make Apple Cider Donut Cake Gluten-Free?

Yes, it can be made gluten-free by using a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Choose a blend that includes xanthan gum or another binding agent, so the cake holds together and doesn’t crumble.

Since gluten-free batters can sometimes be drier, you may also add an extra tablespoon of sour cream for extra moisture.