Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly balances the warm flavors of fall with a moist, fluffy texture. Ideal for gatherings, holidays, or simply as a sweet indulgence at home, this cake boasts an apple cider glaze and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar that will leave your taste buds wanting more. With its unique combination of ingredients, this cake is sure to impress at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe uses a cake mix, making it simple and fast to whip up even for beginners.
• Flavorful Delight: The apple cider and cinnamon bring warmth and depth to every bite.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this cake fits any time of day.
• Impressive Presentation: The bundt shape adds elegance, making it look stunning on any table.
• Customizable: Adjust the cinnamon levels or add nuts for personal flair.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake turns out perfectly, gather the necessary tools before you start baking. Having everything prepared will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Bundt pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Bundt pan: The unique shape allows for even baking and impressive presentation.
• Mixing bowl: A large bowl provides ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk or electric mixer: These tools ensure thorough mixing for a smooth batter.
• Cooling rack: Helps cool the cake evenly, preventing sogginess on the bottom.

Ingredients

Our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is flavorful and moist with an apple cider glaze and cinnamon sugar to top it off.

For the Cake Base:

• 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 (we used cinnamon apple sauce, not chunky)
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• ¼ tsp cinnamon (more if you like it really cinnamony!)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons cinnamon (depending on how much cinnamon you prefer)
• ¼ cup sugar
• ¼ cup melted butter

How to Make Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the dry cake mix, apple cider, apple sauce, and eggs.
2. Add in the cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla. Beat until well mixed.

Step 3: Bake Your Cake

1. Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured bundt pan.
2. Place the bundt pan on the center rack of your preheated oven.
3. Bake for 40-45 minutes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.

Step 4: Cool Before Serving

Remove from heat and allow your cake to cool on a wire rack for about 20 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating

In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together cinnamon with sugar.

Step 6: Finish Your Cake

Once cooled:
1. Brush the entire surface with melted butter.
2. Rub the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the surface until evenly coated.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Doughnut Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Serving Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can elevate any gathering or special occasion. This delightful cake pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and textures.

With a Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices in the cake.
• Try cinnamon or caramel-flavored ice cream for an extra treat.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A warm caramel drizzle adds a rich, buttery sweetness.
• Perfect for those who love a gooey texture on their cake.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a fluffy texture.
• You can add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for added flavor.

Served with Fresh Apples

• Slices of crisp apples offer a refreshing crunch.
• Pair with a sprinkle of lemon juice to enhance the apple flavor.

Accompanied by Coffee or Tea

• A warm cup of coffee or tea balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Choose a spiced chai or apple-flavored tea for a themed experience.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

To achieve the best results with your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, consider these helpful tips. Each step can make a significant difference in your baking experience.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and applesauce to sit out before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.

• Choose High-Quality Apple Cider: Opt for fresh apple cider for richer flavor. Avoid substitutes like apple juice for the best taste.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light, fluffy one.

• Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

• Allow Cooling Time: Let the cake cool in the pan before transferring it to avoid breakage and ensure easier glazing.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can enhance its flavors and create an enjoyable meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or gouda adds savory contrast to sweet flavors.
2. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brightens up your plate and balances sweetness.
3. Spiced Nuts: Roasted nuts seasoned with cinnamon provide crunch and warmth, complementing the flavors of the cake.
4. Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup offers warmth and earthiness that enhances autumnal vibes.
5. Cranberry Chutney: The tartness from chutney contrasts beautifully with sweet desserts, providing balance.
6. Green Salad: A fresh green salad dressed lightly adds freshness and lightness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking the perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can be a challenge. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using the wrong type of apple cider – Make sure to use apple cider, not apple juice or apple cider vinegar, for the best flavor. Check labels carefully.
• Overmixing the batter – Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and airy one.
• Skipping the cooling step – Allow your cake to cool before adding the cinnamon sugar coating. This prevents it from melting off and ensures better adherence.
• Not greasing the pan properly – Ensure your bundt pan is well-greased and floured to prevent sticking. Consider using a baking spray that contains flour for extra assurance.
• Ignoring oven temperature accuracy – Oven temperatures can vary. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is accurate for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in a cool part of your refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Freezing Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rewarming.

Reheating Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm throughout.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making an Apple Cider Doughnut Cake.

How can I make my Apple Cider Doughnut Cake more flavorful?

You can enhance flavors by adding more spices like nutmeg or increasing cinnamon. Consider incorporating chopped apples for added texture.

Can I use homemade apple cider?

Yes! Homemade apple cider will give your cake a unique flavor profile. Just ensure it’s not too sweet.

Is there a gluten-free version of Apple Cider Doughnut Cake?

Absolutely! You can substitute the yellow or spice cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix while following the rest of the recipe as is.

What should I serve with Apple Cider Doughnut Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. It also makes a great dessert alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is not only moist and flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, dried fruits, or even different spices according to your taste. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and enjoy its rich autumn flavors all year round!

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

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Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of fall with our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake. This moist and fluffy cake is a perfect blend of apple cider and warm cinnamon, topped with an irresistible apple cider glaze and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, this cake promises to impress your taste buds. With its elegant bundt shape and easy preparation using a cake mix, it’s an ideal dessert for bakers of all levels. Customize it with your favorite nuts or spices to make it truly your own!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 box yellow or spice cake mix
• 1 cup apple cider
• ½ cup applesauce
• 3 large eggs
• ¼ tsp cinnamon (more if you like it really cinnamony!)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 2 tablespoons cinnamon (depending on how much cinnamon you prefer)
• ¼ cup sugar
• ¼ cup melted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, apple cider, applesauce, and eggs. Add cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla; beat until mixed.
3. Pour the batter into a greased bundt pan and bake for 40-45 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Cool for 20 minutes on a wire rack.
5. Mix cinnamon and sugar in a bowl. Brush cooled cake with melted butter and coat with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 230mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 60mg