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This Apple Cider Donut Cake transforms the classic flavors of apple cider donuts into a show-stopping, easy-to-make dessert. With its fluffy texture, warm spices, and sweet glaze, this cake is perfect for fall gatherings or anytime you crave a taste of autumn.
When I first made this Apple Cider Donut Cake, I was amazed by how easily it came together and how delicious it turned out. The combination of warm spices, apple cider, and a sweet glaze creates a cake that's both comforting and indulgent. It's become a favorite in our home, especially during the fall season.
Essential Ingredients
For the Cake
- Yellow cake mix: Use just the dry mix from a box of yellow cake mix.
- Apple cider: Provides the base flavor for the cake. Ensure it's not apple juice or apple cider vinegar.
- Cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting flavor.
- Apple sauce: Provides moisture and additional apple flavor.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness to the cake batter.
- Brown sugar: Adds a touch of molasses-like sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
For the Apple Cider Glaze (Optional)
- Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and structure to the glaze.
- Apple cider: Provides the base flavor for the glaze.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- Cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting flavor to the topping.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness to the topping.
- Unsalted butter: Melted, to help the cinnamon sugar adhere to the cake.
Creating the Cake
Prepare the Cake Batter
- Mixing the Batter:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, beat the dry cake mix, apple cider, apple sauce, and eggs until well combined. Add cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract to the batter and mix well.
Bake the Cake
- Baking Instructions:
- Pour the batter into a well-greased and floured Bundt pan. Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Apple Cider Glaze (Optional)
- Making the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and apple cider until you reach your desired consistency.
Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- Making the Topping:
- In a separate bowl, mix together cinnamon and sugar. Brush the cooled cake with melted butter, ensuring it's slightly wet but not overly soaked. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the cake, coating it generously.
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The apple cider in this recipe is a game-changer. It provides a unique, autumn-inspired flavor that pairs beautifully with the warm spices and sweet glaze. My family loves how this cake captures the essence of apple cider donuts in a convenient and delicious form.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Apple Cider Donut Cake as a delightful dessert for fall gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you crave a taste of autumn. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a warm cup of apple cider. For added presentation, garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce before serving.
Customize Your Cake
Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and flavor. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the cake batter for a richer flavor profile. Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free cake mix or flour blend to make the cake gluten-free. Vegan Option: Use a dairy-free butter alternative and plant-based milk to make the cake vegan-friendly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Apple Cider Donut Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep the cake fresh for longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change upon thawing.
This Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful and easy-to-make treat that combines the classic flavors of apple cider donuts in a convenient cake form. Whether you serve it for a fall gathering or enjoy it as a comforting dessert, this cake is sure to impress with its warm spices and sweet glaze.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → What ingredients do I need?
- You need cake mix, apple cider, apple sauce, eggs, cinnamon, brown sugar, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, and butter.
- → How long does it take to prepare?
- Prep time is 15 minutes, and total time is 1 hour.
- → Can I use a different type of cake mix?
- Yes, you can use Yellow cake mix or Spice Cake Mix for different flavors.
- → Is it suitable for vegetarians?
- Yes, it is vegetarian-friendly.
- → How should I store the cake?
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.