Name: Apple Cider Donut Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp baking powder; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp allspice; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3/4 cup light brown sugar; 3 eggs; 1 cup applesauce; 3 cups apple cider; 1 tbsp bourbon; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup vegetable oil; 3 tbsp butter, melted; 1/4 cup sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Jump to Recipe

Introducing the scrumptious Apple Cider Donut Cake – a delightful creation capturing the essence of fall in a single, comforting dessert. Imagine the nostalgic flavors of apple cider blended with the beloved texture of a classic donut, all in one moist and indulgent cake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy and Effortless: This recipe is a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for those who want a delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
Deliciously Sweet: Dive into a world of sweetness with every bite, as this cake combines warm spices, reduced apple cider, and a touch of bourbon for a flavor explosion.
Versatile for Various Occasions: Whether you’re hosting a fall-themed gathering, celebrating Thanksgiving, or having a casual get-together, this Apple Cider Donut Cake is the ideal dessert.
Perfect for Sharing: The warmth of autumn flavors makes this cake a wonderful treat to share with friends and family, creating lasting memories.
Creative Adaptations: Feel free to experiment! Add diced apples, chopped nuts, or a caramel drizzle to elevate the texture and complexity of flavors.

What You Need To Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Measuring cups/spoons
Bundt pan
Medium stock pot
Mixing bowls
Nonstick baking spray
Wire rack

Ingredients You Need To Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Kosher salt
Ground cinnamon
Allspice
Granulated sugar
Light brown sugar
Eggs
Applesauce
Apple cider
Bourbon
Vanilla extract
Vegetable oil
Butter (for the topping)
Sugar (for the topping)
Ground cinnamon (for the topping)

How To Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Preheat the oven and prep your bundt pan with nonstick baking spray.
Reduce bourbon and apple cider, then let it cool.
Mix wet and dry ingredients separately, combine, and pour into the bundt pan.
Bake until a skewer comes out clean, cool, then add the delicious topping.

Commonly Asked Questions

What makes this cake unique compared to traditional apple-based desserts?

Its blend of warm spices, tangy richness from reduced apple cider, and the moistness reminiscent of a donut create a distinctive experience.

Are there variations or creative adaptations one can experiment with in this recipe?

Absolutely! Enhance the cake by adding diced apples, chopped nuts, or a caramel drizzle to the batter for added texture and flavor complexity.

How can one adjust the recipe to cater to dietary preferences such as gluten-free or dairy-free?

For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. For a dairy-free option, replace butter with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free milk or apple juice instead of bourbon.

What is the process of reducing apple cider?

To reduce the apple cider, simmer it in a saucepan over medium heat until it reduces to 1 cup, concentrating its flavors while adding a natural sweetness to the cake.

What are some common pitfalls to avoid while baking this Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Overbaking can result in a dry cake, while undermixing or unevenly distributing the batter can affect its texture. Ensure accurate measurements and don’t overmix the batter.

How can additional toppings or garnishes enhance the presentation and flavor of this cake?

Brushing the cake with melted butter and sprinkling cinnamon-sugar on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances its visual appeal, resembling the beloved flavors of a classic donut.