As the leaves begin to turn and a crispness fills the air, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of fall flavors. While pumpkin often steals the spotlight, we’re making a delicious detour this season with an old-fashioned favorite transformed into a stunning dessert: the **Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake**. Imagine all the warm, spiced goodness of a classic apple cider donut, but in the elegant, easy-to-slice form of a bundt cake, beautifully dusted with powdered sugar. This cake isn’t just a treat; it’s a celebration of autumn, brimming with the natural sweetness of apples and the inviting aroma of cinnamon.

Forget the long lines at the cider mill; you can capture that iconic apple cider donut taste right in your kitchen. This particular recipe takes a delightful twist, opting for a delicate powdered sugar finish instead of the traditional cinnamon sugar coating. As a self-proclaimed “powdered donut girl,” I find this subtle sweetness enhances the rich apple and spice flavors without overpowering them. If you’re searching for a unique and utterly satisfying fall dessert that will impress without all the fuss, look no further. This cake is so good, you’ll wish you had tried it yesterday!

Looking for more delightful apple or fall-inspired recipes to bake this season? We’ve got you covered with these fantastic choices:

• The Best Fall Inspired Apple Crumb Cookies
• The Most Spectacular Fall Biscoff Apple Cake
• The Most Splendid Caramel Pumpkin Sheet Cake
• The Best Ever Chocolate Salted Caramel Cake

Whether you’re hosting a fall gathering, preparing for a holiday feast, or simply craving a taste of autumn, this Apple Cider Donut Cake is sure to become a cherished part of your seasonal baking repertoire. Its comforting flavors and simple elegance make it an instant classic.

Why This Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake is a Must-Bake

This isn’t just another cake recipe; it’s a thoughtfully crafted dessert designed for maximum flavor and minimal stress. Here’s what makes this Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake truly special:

• Effortless Elegance for Fall Gatherings: If you’re looking for an impressive yet easy dessert, this bundt cake is your answer. It bakes up beautifully without needing intricate frosting or elaborate decorations. Simply dust with powdered sugar, and you have a show-stopping centerpiece perfect for any fall feast, from casual potlucks to elegant dinner parties.
• Unrivaled Moisture and Deep Apple Flavor: Prepare for a cake that’s incredibly moist and bursting with authentic apple taste. We achieve this by incorporating not one, but two apple powerhouses: creamy applesauce and rich, fresh apple cider. This dynamic duo ensures every bite delivers a tender crumb and a genuinely pronounced apple essence that will delight your palate.
• Nostalgic Powdered Sugar Finish: For those who adore the simple pleasure of a classic powdered sugar donut, this cake delivers. A generous dusting of powdered sugar on top creates a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth sweetness that transports you back to childhood, ready to jump into a pile of autumn leaves. It’s the perfect counterpoint to the cake’s warm spices.
• A Symphony of Warm Spices: This cake is a celebration of autumn’s best spices. It’s generously flavored with fragrant cinnamon, complemented by a subtle hint of nutmeg. This carefully balanced blend creates an irresistible aroma while baking and a comforting, savory warmth in every single bite, making it the quintessential fall treat.

Essential Ingredients for Your Apple Cider Donut Cake

Crafting this delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake requires a few key ingredients, some of which you might already have, and others that are worth seeking out for their superior flavor. Below, we highlight the crucial components and offer tips for selecting the best ones. For a complete and precise list of all ingredients and their measurements, please refer to the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this post.

• Neutral Oil: We recommend using a neutral-flavored oil like vegetable oil. Oils with strong flavors, such as grapeseed or olive oil, can impart an unwanted taste to your cake and detract from the delicate apple and spice notes. The oil contributes to the cake’s incredibly moist texture.
• Light Brown Sugar: Using light brown sugar not only adds a lovely caramel note to the cake but also contributes significantly to its moisture content. The molasses in brown sugar helps keep the cake tender and prevents it from drying out.
• Unsweetened Applesauce: For the best results, opt for unsweetened applesauce. This allows you to control the overall sweetness of the cake. If you use sweetened applesauce, your cake might turn out overly sweet, masking the nuanced flavors of the apple cider and spices. It also boosts the apple flavor and moisture without adding unnecessary fat.
• Fresh Apple Cider: This is a star ingredient! Make sure you are using genuine apple cider, not apple juice. Apple cider is typically unfiltered and has a richer, more complex flavor profile compared to processed apple juice. Seek out fresh apple cider from local farms or your grocery store’s produce section – the quality makes a significant difference in the cake’s final taste.
• All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our cake, providing structure. Ensure it’s measured correctly by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off.
• Spices: Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These two spices are essential for that classic “donut” flavor. Ground cinnamon brings warmth, while a touch of nutmeg adds a subtle, earthy depth that complements the apple perfectly.
• Baking Powder and Salt: For proper leavening and to balance the flavors, respectively.
• Eggs and Vanilla Extract: Eggs bind the ingredients and add richness, while vanilla extract enhances all the other flavors. Ensure your eggs are at room temperature for better emulsification.
• Powdered Sugar: For dusting the finished cake. This adds a beautiful, delicate finish reminiscent of traditional powdered donuts.

Gathering your ingredients and preparing them (such as bringing eggs and applesauce to room temperature) before you start baking will ensure a smooth and successful baking experience. This attention to detail contributes to the cake’s perfect texture and flavor.

Baking Your Perfect Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake: Step-by-Step Guide

Baking a bundt cake might seem intimidating, but with these clear, step-by-step instructions, you’ll achieve a beautiful and delicious result every time. The key to a perfect bundt cake lies in careful preparation and gentle handling. The pan I personally recommend and used for this recipe is this 12-cup Nordic Ware bundt pan, known for its excellent non-stick properties and beautiful designs. Let’s get baking!

• Step 1: Prepare Your Bundt Pan and Preheat Oven. Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). For bundt cakes, proper pan preparation is crucial to ensure a clean release. Create a “pan goop” by thoroughly mixing ¼ cup of softened unsalted butter with ¼ cup of all-purpose flour in a small bowl until it forms a thick paste. Using a pastry brush, liberally coat every inch of your bundt pan – including all the intricate cracks, crevices, and the center tube – with this goop. This creates a superior non-stick layer. Set the prepared pan aside.
• Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 Tablespoon of baking powder. Whisk these ingredients together thoroughly to ensure they are evenly distributed. This step prevents pockets of leavening agents or spices in your final cake. Set this bowl aside.
• Step 3: Cream the Sugars and Oil. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or using a large bowl and a hand mixer), combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of packed light brown sugar, and 1 cup of vegetable oil. Whisk on medium speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined. This process incorporates air and creates a tender crumb.
• Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Flavorings. Add the 4 room-temperature eggs to the sugar and oil mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue to mix on medium speed for another 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and emulsified. Next, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of room-temperature unsweetened applesauce. Mix on low speed just until they are fully incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
• Step 5: Alternate Adding Flour and Apple Cider. Reduce your mixer speed to low. Add approximately one-third of the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until almost combined. Then, pour in half of the 1 cup of room-temperature apple cider, mixing until just barely incorporated. Repeat this process: add another third of the flour mixture, followed by the remaining apple cider. Finally, add the last third of the flour mixture. Mix only until no streaks of dry flour remain in the batter. Overmixing at this stage can lead to a tough cake.
• Step 6: Pour and Bake. Carefully pour the cake batter into your meticulously prepped bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Place the bundt pan into your preheated oven and bake for 50-54 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the thickest part of the cake. It should come out with only a few moist crumbs attached, or completely clean.
• Step 7: Cool the Cake Properly. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the bundt pan for at least 15-20 minutes. This cooling period is crucial; it allows the cake to firm up and pull away from the sides of the pan, making it easier to invert. After this initial cooling, gently invert the bundt pan onto a wire cooling rack, large plate, or cake board. Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature before serving.
• Step 8: Dust and Serve. Just before you are ready to serve your Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake, use a fine-mesh sifter to generously dust the top with powdered sugar. This creates a beautiful, elegant finish and provides that classic donut sweetness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for a Flawless Apple Cider Donut Cake

Achieving bakery-quality results at home is easier than you think with a few expert tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake is nothing short of perfect:

• Room Temperature Ingredients: This is a golden rule in baking! Ensure your eggs, applesauce, and apple cider are all at room temperature. Room temperature ingredients emulsify better, creating a smoother batter and a more uniform, tender crumb in your finished cake.
• Do Not Overmix: Once you start adding the flour, mix only until no dry streaks remain. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dry cake. A light hand is key for a tender bundt.
• Perfect Bundt Pan Prep is Essential: Don’t skimp on greasing your bundt pan. The “pan goop” method (equal parts softened butter and flour) is incredibly effective. Apply it liberally into every nook and cranny. You can also use a baking spray specifically designed for baking, but ensure it contains flour.
• Quality Apple Cider Makes a Difference: Since apple cider is a primary flavor, using high-quality, fresh, unfiltered apple cider will elevate your cake significantly. Avoid apple juice, as its flavor is much milder and sweeter, lacking the complex notes of real cider.
• Cooling Time is Crucial: Resist the urge to flip your bundt cake out of the pan immediately. Allowing it to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes lets it set and firm up, preventing it from breaking apart when inverted.
• Measuring Flour Correctly: For accurate measurements, always spoon flour into your measuring cup and then level it off with the back of a knife. Scooping directly can compact the flour, leading to too much flour and a denser, drier cake.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

While delicious as is, this Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake is also wonderfully versatile. Here are a few ideas to customize it or serve it:

• Cinnamon Sugar Topping: If you prefer the classic cinnamon sugar donut, melt ¼ cup of butter and brush it over the warm cake. Then, sprinkle generously with a mixture of ½ cup granulated sugar and 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon.
• Simple Glaze: For a slightly sweeter, tangier finish, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of fresh apple cider or milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
• Add Fresh Apples: For extra texture and apple flavor, gently fold 1 cup of finely diced, peeled apples (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith) into the batter just before pouring into the pan.
• Serving Suggestions: This cake is incredible on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a dollop of fresh whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or a drizzle of warm caramel sauce. It’s also fantastic with a hot cup of coffee or a mug of mulled cider.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Donut Cake

We’ve gathered answers to some common questions you might have about baking this delightful Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake:

Can I use a 10-cup bundt pan instead of a 12-cup?

Yes, you can. However, a 10-cup bundt pan will be slightly too small for all the batter. You will likely have leftover batter, which you can easily bake into a few muffins or cupcakes. Adjust the baking time accordingly (muffins/cupcakes will bake much faster, typically 18-22 minutes).

Can I transform this recipe into actual donuts?

Absolutely! This batter works wonderfully for baked donuts. Pour the batter into a greased donut pan and bake for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary. Here is my favorite donut pan.

Is it okay to use apple juice instead of apple cider?

No, we strongly recommend against using apple juice. Apple juice is processed differently than apple cider and contains a higher concentration of sugar, along with a much milder flavor profile. Using apple juice will result in a cake that is overly sweet and lacks the distinct, robust apple flavor that is characteristic of this recipe. Fresh apple cider is key!

How do I prevent my bundt cake from sticking to the pan?

The “pan goop” method (equal parts softened butter and flour) described in Step 1 of the instructions is highly effective. Ensure you coat every crevice thoroughly. Alternatively, you can use a high-quality non-stick baking spray that contains flour. Make sure the pan is completely cooled before attempting to remove the cake.

Can I add fresh apple pieces to the batter?

Yes, you can! For an extra burst of apple, finely dice about 1 cup of firm apples (like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Granny Smith) and gently fold them into the batter during Step 5, after you’ve incorporated the flour and cider. This will add lovely texture and flavor.

Storing and Freezing Your Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

To ensure your Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake remains fresh and delicious for as long as possible, proper storage is essential. This cake keeps wonderfully, making it a great make-ahead option for gatherings or a delightful treat throughout the week.

You can store this moist apple cider donut cake at room temperature. Once the cake has completely cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight cake keeper. Stored this way, it will remain fresh and flavorful for up to 5 days. For best results, keep it away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Freezing Instructions

This bundt cake also freezes exceptionally well, allowing you to enjoy a taste of fall anytime you crave it. To freeze, it’s best to cut the cake into individual slices first. This makes it easier to thaw only what you need. Wrap each individual cake slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place the wrapped slices into a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Stored correctly, the cake slices can be kept in the freezer for up to 30 days without compromising flavor or texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices at room temperature for a few hours, or gently warm them in the microwave for a quicker treat.

If you’ve baked this Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake and are now craving even more deliciousness (and who could blame you?), here are some other fantastic recipes to try. Each one is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion:

• The Greatest Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cake
• Graham Cracker Cake with Cake Batter Buttercream
• Gooey Cinnamon Roll Caramel Cake

We absolutely love hearing from you! If you’ve tried this delightful Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake recipe, please take a moment to leave a review and rate it below. Your feedback is incredibly valuable and helps us continue to create more delicious and exciting recipes for you to enjoy. Happy baking!

Recipe Card: Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

Molly Murphy

A moist and delicious bundt cake bursting with the warm flavors of cinnamon and apple. Made with real applesauce and fresh apple cider, and finished with a delicate dusting of powdered sugar.

4 from 114 votes

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Course Cake, Dessert

Cuisine American

Ingredients

 

 

FOR THE PAN GOOP

• ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
• ¼ cup all purpose flour

For the cake

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup brown sugar packed
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 4 large eggs at room temperature
• 1 cup unsweetened applesauce at room temperature
• 1 cup fresh apple cider at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 Tablespoon baking powder
• ¼ cup powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

 

For the cake

• Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (160°C). Prepare your bundt pan with the “pan goop”: In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup softened unsalted butter and ¼ cup all-purpose flour until well combined into a paste. Use a pastry brush to thoroughly coat the inside of your bundt pan, ensuring all cracks and crevices are covered. Set aside.
• In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 Tablespoon baking powder until fully combined. Set this dry mixture aside.
• In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment (or using a hand mixer), whisk 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup packed brown sugar, and 1 cup vegetable oil on medium speed for 2 minutes until light and fluffy.
• Add the 4 room-temperature eggs to the sugar mixture, one at a time, mixing well after each. Continue to mix on medium speed for 2 minutes. Then, add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 cup room-temperature unsweetened applesauce, mixing on low speed just until incorporated.
• With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the dry ingredients and apple cider in alternating additions. First, add ⅓ of the flour mixture, mixing until almost combined. Then, add ½ of the 1 cup room-temperature apple cider, mixing gently. Add another ⅓ of the flour mixture, followed by the remaining apple cider. Finally, add the rest of the flour mixture. Mix only until no streaks of flour remain in the batter. Be careful not to overmix.
• Pour the batter evenly into your prepared bundt pan. Bake for 50-54 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the thickest part of the cake comes out with only a few moist crumbs or clean.
• Allow the cake to cool in the bundt pan for 15-20 minutes. This allows the cake to firm up and pull away from the sides. After this time, carefully invert the cake onto a wire cooling rack, large plate, or cake board. Let it cool completely to room temperature before decorating.
• Just before serving, use a sifter to generously dust the top of the cooled cake with powdered sugar. Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors of autumn!

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