Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Fall is the perfect season to indulge in cozy desserts that fill your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas. The Apple Cider Doughnut Cake beautifully captures the essence of autumn with its tender crumb, spiced apple cider flavor, and a sweet cinnamon glaze that mimics the beloved apple cider doughnut experience. This cake is a celebration of everything we love about the season—comfort, spice, and just the right touch of sweetness. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or a simple weekend treat, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

There are countless reasons why this Apple Cider Doughnut Cake stands out. First, it combines the nostalgic flavor of apple cider doughnuts into a simple, easy-to-make cake that requires no special equipment. The cake’s moist texture is thanks to apple cider and vegetable oil, which keep it tender without the heaviness of butter alone. The warming spices—cinnamon and nutmeg—bring depth and cozy vibes, making it perfect for chilly mornings or afternoon coffee breaks. Plus, the quick cinnamon glaze adds a lovely, sweet finish that’s reminiscent of the sugary coating on classic doughnuts.

This recipe is wonderfully forgiving and adaptable, making it a fantastic treat for both novice and experienced bakers. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover apple cider, too. You’ll love how effortlessly this cake comes together and how quickly it disappears once sliced and served.

Ingredient Notes

• All-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the cake brown beautifully.
• Baking powder and baking soda: These leaveners work together to give the cake a light and fluffy texture.
• Ground cinnamon & nutmeg: Essential warm spices that create the signature doughnut flavor.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Apple cider: Infuses the cake with natural fruity notes and moisture; opt for a fresh, unsweetened variety.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without a heavy buttery taste.
• Large eggs: Bind ingredients together and add richness.
• Vanilla extract: Adds depth and rounds out the flavors.
• Brown sugar: Used in the cinnamon glaze for a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Melted and mixed into the glaze to add smoothness and flavor.
• Powdered sugar: The base of the glaze, providing sweetness and a silky texture.

Prep & Cook Tools

• Mixing bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients separately before mixing.
• Whisk and spatula: To mix the batter thoroughly without overworking it.
• 9-inch round cake pan: Ideal for baking this cake evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurement.
• Cooling rack: To cool the cake completely before glazing.
• Small bowl: For mixing the glaze ingredients.

Apple Cider Doughnut Cake in Steps

Step 1: Preheat and prepare your pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray, then lightly dust it with flour to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. This ensures the spices and leaveners are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine wet ingredients

In another bowl, mix 1 cup apple cider, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate wet and dry mixtures

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, gently fold the batter until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

Step 5: Bake the cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Prepare the cinnamon glaze

While the cake bakes, whisk together 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1/2 cup powdered sugar in a small bowl until smooth. This glaze is inspired by the classic Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls Icing Ingredients but tailored to complement the apple cider flavors perfectly.

Step 7: Cool and glaze

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. Once the cake is mostly cool but still slightly warm, drizzle the cinnamon glaze over the top. The warmth helps the glaze soak in slightly, enhancing every bite.

Step 8: Serve and enjoy

Slice up your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake and serve with a hot cup of tea or coffee. It’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack.

International Equivalents

• All-purpose flour: Plain flour (UK, Australia)
• Granulated sugar: Caster sugar (in some regions, finer granulated sugar)
• Vegetable oil: Sunflower oil or canola oil can be used interchangeably.
• Apple cider: In countries without apple cider, use unsweetened apple juice mixed with a splash of lemon juice for acidity.
• Powdered sugar: Icing sugar or confectioners’ sugar in other countries.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Make sure your apple cider is fresh and not overly sweetened; it impacts the cake’s flavor balance.
• Don’t overmix the batter once wet and dry ingredients are combined; too much stirring can make the cake dense.
• Let the cake cool slightly before adding the glaze. If the cake is too hot, the glaze will melt and become runny.
• Use fresh spices for the best aroma and flavor. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg lose potency over time.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store your Apple Cider Doughnut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked feel.

FAQ

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?

Yes! If you don’t have apple cider, use unsweetened apple juice mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice to mimic the slight acidity and depth of flavor found in apple cider.

Is this cake suitable for a crowd?

Absolutely. This recipe can be doubled and baked in a larger pan or divided into two 9-inch pans for layering. It’s perfect for gatherings and makes for a stunning fall-themed dessert.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure it contains xanthan gum or add a teaspoon for structure. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.

How do I make the glaze thicker or thinner?

Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar to thicken or a teaspoon of apple cider or milk to thin the glaze. Stir well after each addition until you reach your desired texture.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• For another cozy apple treat, try the Apple Fritter Cake—a fantastic complement to this doughnut cake.
• If you love breakfast baked goods, whip up some Classic Blueberry Muffins for a quick, flavorful morning boost.
• Need a simple glaze for other baked goods? Check out the Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls Icing Ingredients recipe for inspiration.

Before You Go

Remember, the magic of this Apple Cider Doughnut Cake lies in its simplicity and heartwarming flavors. It’s a perfect bake to bring a touch of fall into your home all year round. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or a casual treat, this cake offers all the cozy charm of your favorite apple cider doughnut in an easy-to-enjoy slice. Don’t forget to share it with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!

Every bite is a little celebration of crisp autumn days and sweet comfort. Happy baking!

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