Our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With its rich apple flavor and warm spices, this moist cake is ideal for cozy family gatherings, coffee breaks, or festive celebrations. The unique combination of apple cider and cinnamon sugar sets it apart from ordinary cakes, making it a memorable dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Delight: The blend of apple cider and spices creates a cake bursting with flavor.
- Easy to Make: Using cake mix simplifies the process without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a dessert or a sweet breakfast option with coffee.
- Great for Gatherings: Impress your guests with this stunning bundt cake at any occasion.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the apple cider and applesauce, this cake stays moist and delicious.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake, gather the essential tools to ensure a smooth process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Bundt pan
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Toothpick
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is crucial for combining all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bundt pan: This unique shape not only looks great but also helps the cake bake evenly.
- Whisk or electric mixer: Ensures that all ingredients are blended well for a uniform texture.
Ingredients
Our Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is flavorful and moist with an apple cider glaze and cinnamon sugar to top it off.
Cake Ingredients
- 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
- 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.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the dry cake mix, apple cider, apple sauce, and eggs until well combined.
2. Add in ¼ tsp cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla. Blend until smooth.
Step 3: Prepare the Bundt Pan
- Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured bundt pan.
- For best results, use a non-stick spray like Baker’s Joy that includes flour.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Place the bundt pan in the center of your oven.
- Bake for about 40–45 minutes.
- To test for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Step 5: Cool on Wire Rack
Remove from heat and allow to cool on a wire rack for 20 minutes before removing from the pan.
Step 6: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar Coating
In a separate bowl:
1. Mix together cinnamon and sugar until well combined.
Step 7: Coat the Cake
- Once cooled, brush the entire surface of the cake with melted butter.
- Sprinkle generously with the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Doughnut Cake!
How to Serve Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply treating yourself, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.
With a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and a cool contrast to the warm cake.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: For an extra touch of spice, this flavor complements the cake beautifully.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- Warm Caramel: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce brings additional sweetness and richness to each slice.
- Salted Caramel: The hint of salt balances the sweetness perfectly, making each bite irresistible.
Accompanied by Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Apples: Fresh apple slices add crunch and freshness, enhancing the apple flavor in the cake.
- Berries: Mixed berries provide a tart contrast that brightens up the dessert.
Topped with Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it adds a nice texture and sweetness to balance the cake.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding cinnamon or vanilla for an extra layer of flavor.
Served with Coffee or Tea
- Hot Coffee: A warm cup of coffee elevates the dessert experience, perfect for morning or afternoon enjoyment.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing herbal tea pairs well with the spices in the cake, creating a comforting atmosphere.
How to Perfect Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
To ensure your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips.
- Use fresh apple cider: Opt for high-quality apple cider as it greatly enhances flavor compared to juice.
- Check egg temperature: Room temperature eggs mix better, leading to a fluffier texture in your cake.
- Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid dense cake; lumps are okay!
- Grease the pan well: Prevent sticking by ensuring your bundt pan is well-greased and floured.
- Cool completely before glazing: Letting it cool allows the glaze to set properly without running off.
- Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to increase cinnamon or even add nutmeg for a personal twist.
Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can create a more complete meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Pumpkin Soup: This seasonal soup offers warmth and rich flavors that pair nicely with dessert.
- Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide crunch and savory notes that balance the sweet cake.
- Savory Scones: Cheddar or herb scones add a hearty element that contrasts deliciously with the cake’s sweetness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring earthy flavors that enhance your meal’s variety.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Apple Cider Doughnut Cake can be fun, but it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using the wrong type of cider: Make sure to use apple cider, not apple juice or apple cider vinegar. This will give your cake the right flavor and moisture.
- Skipping room temperature eggs: Cold eggs can affect the mixing process. Always use eggs at room temperature for a better rise and texture.
- Not greasing the pan properly: A well-greased bundt pan is essential to prevent sticking. Use baking spray with flour or grease with butter and flour.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Ignoring baking time: Every oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use proper measuring cups and spoons.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Container: Use a sealed plastic or glass container to maintain freshness.
Freezing Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
- Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Container: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making an Apple Cider Doughnut Cake:
Can I use gluten-free cake mix for Apple Cider Doughnut Cake?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free cake mix if needed. Just ensure it’s suitable for baking.
How can I make my Apple Cider Doughnut Cake more cinnamon-flavored?
You can increase the amount of cinnamon in both the batter and the sugar topping according to your taste preferences.
Can I add nuts to the Apple Cider Doughnut Cake?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can add great texture and flavor. Just fold them into the batter before baking.
What should I serve with Apple Cider Doughnut Cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it an ideal treat for breakfast or dessert.
Final Thoughts
The Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different spices or toppings according to your preferences. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy dessert or a delightful brunch dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try!
Apple Cider Doughnut Cake
Indulge in the warmth of autumn with our delightful Apple Cider Doughnut Cake. This moist and flavorful bundt cake combines fresh apple cider with aromatic spices, creating a comforting dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy coffee breaks. Topped with a cinnamon sugar coating, this cake is reminiscent of classic doughnuts but with the added charm of being homemade. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or paired with a scoop of ice cream, this easy-to-make recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow or spice cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup apple cider
- ½ cup applesauce (cinnamon preferred)
- 3 large eggs
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons cinnamon
- ¼ cup melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine cake mix, apple cider, applesauce, and eggs until smooth. Mix in cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla.
- Grease a bundt pan and pour in the batter.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 20 minutes on a wire rack before removing from the pan.
- Brush with melted butter and coat with cinnamon sugar.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 19g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
