Name: Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 5 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups (500 g) all-purpose flour; 3 cups (600 g) granulated sugar; 4 teaspoons baking powder; 4 teaspoons apple pie spice; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 ½ cups apple cider, or apple juice; 2 large eggs, room temperature; ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter, melted; 2 tablespoons vanilla extract; ¼ cup apple cider; ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons apple pie spice

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The warm aroma of cinnamon and apple fills the kitchen as this beautiful Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake bakes to perfection. With its tender crumb and subtle sweetness, this cake quickly becomes a favorite for those crisp fall days when the leaves turn golden and the air turns cool. Unlike store-bought options, which often lack depth of flavor, this homemade version packs a punch, making every bite a celebration of autumn’s bounty.

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Not only is this cake easy to prepare—taking just about 15 minutes of your time—but it also features pantry staples that keep it budget-friendly. Perfect for dessert tables, weekend brunch, or simply satisfying those afternoon cravings, this Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake is sure to impress everyone, even if baking isn’t your forte. Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor a slice—or two!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: This delightful cake comes together in just 15 minutes of prep, making it a breeze for busy weekdays or holiday gatherings.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of apple cider and warming spices delivers a cozy, nostalgic taste that’s hard to resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Its unique bundt shape not only looks impressive but also makes for a beautiful centerpiece at any gathering.
Flexible Serving: Whether it’s breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert, this cake fits perfectly into any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: It’s easy to adapt for gluten-free diets or even vegan by swapping a couple of ingredients.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the base of your cake, giving it structure. You can substitute with a gluten-free blend if needed.
3 cups granulated sugar: For sweetness and a lovely crumb. Brown sugar can also add additional moisture and flavor.
4 teaspoons baking powder: This helps your cake rise, creating that delightful fluffiness.
4 teaspoons apple pie spice: A comforting blend that encapsulates the essence of fall. If unavailable, you can mix equal parts cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of your cake and balances the sweetness.
2 ½ cups apple cider or apple juice: Provides moisture and infuses your cake with a rich apple flavor.
2 large eggs, room temperature: Eggs add moisture and help bind the ingredients together for a cohesive texture.
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds a rich flavor and tenderness to the cake. Make sure it’s unsalted to control the overall saltiness.
2 tablespoons vanilla extract: A touch of vanilla complements the apple cider and spices beautifully.
¼ cup apple cider: Used later for brushing on the warm cake, adding an extra layer of apple flavor.
½ cup granulated sugar: Mixed with spices, this will give the final cake a delightful, crunchy crust.
2 teaspoons apple pie spice: For sprinkling on top, giving that delightful aromatics when you take a slice.

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake

Preheat your oven: Start by preheating the oven to 350°F. This ensures even cooking right from the start. Generously grease a 10 to 12 cup Bundt pan with baking spray that contains flour (or you can use butter and flour).
Mix your dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups all-purpose flour, 3 cups granulated sugar, 4 teaspoons baking powder, 4 teaspoons apple pie spice, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. This mix will serve as the flavorful foundation for your cake.
Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups apple cider, 2 large eggs (at room temperature), ¼ cup melted unsalted butter, and 2 tablespoons vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
Combine wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir gently. Remember, the batter will be slightly thin, so be careful not to overmix.
Pour into the Bundt pan: With love and care, pour the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan, ensuring it’s smooth on top.
Bake to perfection: Place your Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 65 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; you’re looking for a few moist crumbs, but no wet batter.
Cool the cake: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack, letting it cool further.
Add an apple cider drizzle: While the cake is still warm, brush or drizzle ¼ cup apple cider evenly over it. This step adds an extra spark of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Sprinkle and serve: In a small bowl, mix together ½ cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons apple pie spice. While the cake is still warm, gently press this mixture over the entire surface, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Slice and enjoy: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing into this autumn-inspired delight.

Storing & Reheating

To keep your Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake moist and flavorful, store it at room temperature, covered, for up to three days. For longer storage, pop it in the refrigerator, where it will remain fresh for another week. You can also freeze individual slices or the entire cake in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to indulge once again, simply thaw it at room temperature and reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Just a note: freezing might slightly alter the texture, but a quick warm-up brings it back to life!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Don’t overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for a lighter texture.
Use room temperature ingredients: Eggs and butter at room temperature blend better, ensuring a smoother batter.
Cool adequately: Letting your cake cool too long inside the pan may cause it to stick. Follow the cooling instructions carefully.
Check for baking time: Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark to account for any differences.
Flavor boosts: If you want a stronger apple flavor, consider adding finely chopped apples into the batter.

What’s better than a moist, flavorful cake that embodies the spirit of fall? This Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake not only brings comfort and satisfaction but also invites experimentation with flavors and ingredients. So, don’t hesitate to try different spices, add-ins, or toppings according to your preferences.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use other types of apples in this cake?

Absolutely! While apple cider is the star, feel free to add finely chopped fresh apples to the batter for extra texture and flavor. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great choices.

How do I ensure my Bundt cake doesn’t stick?

A well-greased Bundt pan is key! Use a baking spray containing flour, or liberally brush the pan with melted butter, ensuring that every nook and cranny is coated. Dust lightly with flour before adding the batter for extra insurance.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead! You can bake it a day or two before your gathering. Just make sure to store it properly and add the apple cider drizzle just before serving for that fresh taste.

What if I want to make this vegan?

You can easily make this cake vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg) and using your favorite plant-based milk in place of the apple cider. The cake will still turn out delicious!

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