Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This APPLE CIDER DOUGHNUT CAKE
- It’s a delightful blend of sweet and spicy flavors.
- Perfectly moist and fluffy, it melts in your mouth.
- Easy to make, even for beginner bakers.
- Great for cozy gatherings or a special treat at home.
- Captures the essence of fall in every bite.

APPLE CIDER DOUGHNUT CAKE
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider – In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until reduced to about 1/2 cup, stirring occasionally. Let it cool.
- Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Step 4: Beat the Eggs – In another bowl, beat eggs with granulated sugar and brown sugar until pale and thick.
- Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients – Stir in the cooled apple cider reduction, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until combined.
- Step 6: Fold in Dry Ingredients – Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just mixed. Do not overmix.
- Step 7: Pour the Batter – Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Step 8: Bake the Cake – Bake for 30–35 minutes (45–50 minutes for a Bundt pan), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Step 9: Cool the Cake – Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Step 10: Prepare the Coating – Mix the sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
- Step 11: Coat the Cake – While the cake is still slightly warm, brush or drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Step 12: Slice and Serve – Slice and serve your delicious APPLE CIDER DOUGHNUT CAKE!
Notes
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 250 |
Fat | 10g |
Protein | 3g |
Carbs | 38g |
Sugar | 20g |
Fiber | 1g |
Ingredients
Discover the delicious ingredients that come together to create the perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake!

- 2 cups apple cider – fresh or store-bought
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – sifted for lightness
- 1 cup granulated sugar – sweetener for the batter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – packed for added richness
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – for leavening
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – helps the cake rise
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – enhances the flavors
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – warm spice for flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg – for that cozy aroma
- 2 large eggs – binds the ingredients
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil – adds moisture and richness
- 1/2 cup buttermilk – gives a tender texture
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – enhances the sweetness
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar – for the cinnamon-sugar coating
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – mixed with sugar for coating
How to Make APPLE CIDER DOUGHNUT CAKE
This delightful APPLE CIDER DOUGHNUT CAKE is perfect for fall! With a preparation time of about 15 minutes, a cooking time of 30-35 minutes, and a cooling time of 10 minutes, you’ll have a delicious treat ready to enjoy in no time!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a Bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Step 2: Reduce the Apple Cider
In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until reduced to about 1/2 cup, stirring occasionally. Let it cool.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Step 4: Beat the Eggs
In another bowl, beat eggs with granulated sugar and brown sugar until pale and thick.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
Stir in the cooled apple cider reduction, vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until combined.
Step 6: Fold in Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just mixed. Do not overmix.
Step 7: Pour the Batter
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Bake for 30–35 minutes (45–50 minutes for a Bundt pan), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool the Cake
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Prepare the Coating
Mix the sugar and cinnamon for the coating.
Step 11: Coat the Cake
While the cake is still slightly warm, brush or drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Step 12: Slice and Serve
Slice and serve your delicious APPLE CIDER DOUGHNUT CAKE!
Recipe Snapshot
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Category | Dessert |
Cuisine | American |
Prep Time | 15 minutes |
Cook Time | 35 minutes |
Extra Time | 10 minutes (cooling) |
Total Time | 60 minutes |
Dietary | Vegetarian |
Serves | 12 |
Best Served | Warm with a cinnamon-sugar coating! |
Pro Tips for Making APPLE CIDER DOUGHNUT CAKE
- Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before glazing.
- For a spiced kick, add a pinch of nutmeg to the batter.
- Consider using a bundt pan for a beautiful presentation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep them moist.
How to Serve this APPLE CIDER DOUGHNUT CAKE
- Dust with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a hot cup of spiced apple cider.
- Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Top with chopped nuts for a delightful crunch.
- Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
- Slice and serve alongside a fresh fruit salad.
- Pair with a chai latte for a cozy afternoon treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can make this cake ahead and store it easily:
Storing APPLE CIDER DOUGHNUT CAKE Leftovers
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.
Freezing APPLE CIDER DOUGHNUT CAKE
- Wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap.
- Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Label with the date and type of cake.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
Reheating APPLE CIDER DOUGHNUT CAKE
- Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight.
- For a warm slice, microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.
- Enjoy with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra flavor!
Explore more easy breakfast recipes, quick lunch ideas, cozy dinner meals, and delightful dessert.
FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. How are apple cider donuts different from regular donuts?
Apple cider donuts are typically denser and have a more complex flavor profile compared to regular donuts. They are made with apple cider, which adds moisture and a hint of apple flavor, making them perfect for fall. Regular donuts, on the other hand, are often lighter and sweeter, focusing more on the dough and glaze rather than the flavor of the ingredients used in the batter.
2. What does apple cider do in baking?
Apple cider adds moisture and a subtle sweetness to baked goods. It also contributes a unique flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. In recipes like the Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, the acidity in the cider can react with baking soda or baking powder, helping the cake rise and creating a tender crumb. This makes it a fantastic ingredient for adding depth to your baked treats.
3. Does Krispy Kreme have apple cider doughnuts?
Krispy Kreme does offer seasonal apple Cider doughnut, typically available during the fall months. These doughnuts are made with real apple cider and are often coated in cinnamon sugar, making them a delicious treat for those who love the flavors of autumn. Be sure to check with your local store for availability, as offerings can vary by location and season.
4. Are apple cider donuts at Trader Joe’s?
Yes, Trader Joe’s often carries apple cider donuts, especially during the fall season. These donuts are usually made with real apple cider and are a popular choice among customers looking for a tasty seasonal treat. They can be found in the bakery section, so keep an eye out for them when you visit your local Trader Joe’s store!
Final Thoughts
As you savor each bite of your homemade Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, let the warm, cozy flavors transport you to autumn days filled with laughter and joy. This delightful treat is not only simple to make but also incredibly rewarding. So gather your loved ones, share the sweetness, and enjoy the magic of this nostalgic recipe!