Irresistible Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe You Need to Try

There’s something truly magical about the scent of apples and cinnamon swirling through the air on a crisp autumn afternoon. Growing up in Monterey, those scents always meant one thing in our kitchen: it was time for something special. One of my favorite nostalgic treats that captures that cozy feeling perfectly is this Apple Cider Donut Cake. It’s like the warm, spiced delight of a freshly picked apple cider donut, but in a cake form that’s easier to share with family and friends. I remember making this with my daughters, Olivia and Isabella, on chilly weekends, the kitchen filled with laughter and the comforting aroma of roasting apples and spices, just like my Nonna Rosa’s kitchen many years ago.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Donut Cake

This Apple Cider Donut Cake combines all the best parts of the classic fall treat into a moist, tender cake that’s surprisingly easy to make. What I love most about it is how it brings back so many memories from my childhood—my mother, Elena, always had a knack for turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and this cake is no exception. It’s filled with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, which mingle with the natural sweetness of apple cider to create a flavor that’s both nostalgic and fresh.

Unlike traditional donuts, this cake is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a comforting breakfast alongside a steaming cup of coffee, a cozy afternoon snack, or even a festive dessert after a family dinner. Plus, it’s a great way to bring a little piece of my coastal hometown’s kitchen into your home, where the joy of cooking and sharing food feels like a warm hug.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Apple Cider Donut Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (for a gluten-free option, substitute with a blend of almond and oat flour)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional, for a deeper spice flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar (you can swap half for brown sugar for a richer flavor)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple cider (fresh or store-bought, preferably unfiltered for more depth)
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (adds moisture and tang)
• 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and finely chopped (I love using Fuji or Honeycrisp from the local farmer’s market)
• For the glaze:
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons apple cider
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 14g (mostly from butter)
• Carbohydrates: 44g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 26g (includes natural sugars from apple and apple cider)
• Sodium: 210mg

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Steps to Create Your Apple Cider Donut Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch bundt pan or tube pan. I always lightly butter my pan and dust it with a bit of flour to ensure the cake releases easily—my Nonna Rosa taught me that little trick.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and salt. Setting these dry ingredients aside allows the spices to distribute evenly in the batter.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial for a tender crumb, so don’t rush it—my mom always said “patience is the secret ingredient.”
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and apple cider to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry mix. Mix gently—overmixing can make the cake dense. Fold in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and the finely chopped apple last, just until evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of apples and spices filling your kitchen at this stage is one of my favorite moments in baking—it always feels like a warm embrace.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. While the cake cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, apple cider, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. The glaze adds a sweet, tangy finish that brings out the apple flavor beautifully.

Tips for Making the Best Apple Cider Donut Cake

From years of baking alongside my daughters and recalling my grandmother’s kitchen lessons, here are some tips to ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake turns out perfectly every time:

• Use fresh apple cider: It makes all the difference in flavor. When I was in Italy, I realized how much fresh, local ingredients elevate simple recipes—apple cider is no exception.
• Don’t skip the sour cream or Greek yogurt: It keeps the cake moist and tender, much like the soft crumb of my Nonna Rosa’s famous sponge cakes.
• Chop the apples finely: Large chunks can sink and create uneven baking. Smaller pieces distribute flavor and texture evenly.
• Spices can be adjusted: Feel free to increase cinnamon or nutmeg if you want a bolder spice profile—my daughters love it extra spicy!
• Let the cake cool completely before glazing: This prevents the glaze from melting into the cake and keeps that lovely shiny finish.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Apple Cider Donut Cake is a true crowd-pleaser that shines in many settings. I’ve served it at family brunches, holiday gatherings, and even casual afternoon teas with my girls. Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it: Learn more: Irresistible Blueberry Cheesecake Crumble Muffins Recipe

• Warm a slice slightly and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
• Pair a slice with a spiced chai latte or a bold cup of coffee for a cozy fall breakfast.
• For a festive twist, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top of the glaze right after drizzling.
• Try it alongside a crisp apple salad or a cheese plate with sharp cheddar for a sweet and savory combo reminiscent of my mother Elena’s inventive dinner spreads.

Storage and Reheating Tips

One thing I treasure about this cake is how well it keeps, making it perfect for busy families or last-minute guests. Here’s how to store and reheat it to maintain all that lovely flavor and moisture:

• Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week, but allow it to come back to room temperature before serving to soften the butter and glaze.
• You can freeze slices individually by wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or on the counter.
• To reheat, warm slices gently in a microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F) for about 10 minutes, wrapped in foil to keep moisture in.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Cake?

The main ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Cake include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Apple Cider Donut Cake?

The total time to make Apple Cider Donut Cake includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Apple Cider Donut Cake ahead of time?

Yes, Apple Cider Donut Cake can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Apple Cider Donut Cake pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Apple Cider Donut Cake suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Apple Cider Donut Cake may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Apple Cider Donut Cake has been a beautiful way to keep my family’s culinary traditions alive while adapting to my busy life here in Monterey. It’s a recipe that’s as comforting as the warm kitchen memories I carry from my childhood with my mom and Nonna Rosa. Whether you’re baking it to celebrate the arrival of fall or simply to enjoy a moment of sweetness with your loved ones, this cake offers a taste of home, heritage, and heartfelt love in every bite.

“Food is the language of love we speak without words, passed down through generations, one delicious bite at a time.”

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of apple cider and spices fill your kitchen—this Apple Cider Donut Cake is waiting to become part of your family’s story, just as it did mine.