Hey friends! Today, I’m excited to share a baking recipe that wraps you in a warm hug of cinnamon, apples, and autumn nostalgia — the Cozy Apple Cider Donut Cake. Imagine the flavor of your favorite orchard-fresh apple cider donut, but in a tender, golden bundt cake that’s perfect for crisp mornings, cozy evenings, and everything in between.
Why This Cake Feels Like Fall in Every Bite
This cake was inspired by a chilly October afternoon at our local apple farm. The air smelled like cinnamon and hayrides, and I couldn’t resist grabbing a warm cider donut fresh from the fryer. That sweet-spiced flavor stuck with me — and this cake brings it home in a big, beautiful way.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Baked — for that classic donut texture with a soft crumb.
- Infused with real apple cider — reduced for bold flavor.
- Coated in cinnamon sugar — just like the donuts!
- Perfect for gatherings — easy to slice and serve.
Recipe at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Bake Time | 45–50 minutes |
| Total Time | ~1 hour 15 minutes |
| Skill Level | Easy to moderate |
| Servings | 10–12 slices |
| Tools Needed | Bundt pan, saucepan, mixer, whisk |
| Make-Ahead? | Yes! Even better the next day |
Ingredients List + Substitutions
Apple Cider Reduction
- 1 ½ cups apple cider
Reduce to ¾ cup for concentrated flavor
Cake Batter
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Spoon and level for accuracy - 1 ½ tsp baking powder
Gives the cake lift - ½ tsp baking soda
Helps with browning and texture - 1 tsp cinnamon + ½ tsp nutmeg
Warm spice blend — add cloves for extra depth - ½ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
Sub: Coconut oil for a dairy-free twist - 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
Adds moisture and molasses flavor - 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Tangy richness — sub with buttermilk if needed - ¾ cup reduced apple cider
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Reduce the Cider
- In a small saucepan, simmer 1 ½ cups apple cider over medium heat until reduced to ¾ cup.
- Cool completely before using.
Pro Tip: This step intensifies the apple flavor — don’t skip it!
Step 2: Prep the Pan & Oven
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
Step 4: Cream Butter & Sugars
- In a large bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Stir in vanilla.
Step 5: Combine
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and sour cream, beginning and ending with dry.
- Stir in reduced cider until smooth.
- Pour into prepared pan and smooth the top.
Sensory Checkpoint: Batter should be thick, creamy, and smell like spiced apples.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack.
Step 6: Cinnamon Sugar Finish
- Brush warm cake with melted butter.
- Mix sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle or roll the cake in the mixture.
Pro Tip: Do this while the cake is still warm for best adhesion.
Serving & Storage Tips
| Storage Method | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temp (covered) | 3–4 days | Best texture when stored airtight |
| Fridge | Up to 1 week | Slightly denser when chilled |
| Freezer | 2 months | Wrap tightly; thaw overnight in fridge |
Troubleshooting & FAQ
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Cake sticks to pan | Grease + flour thoroughly or use baking spray |
| Dry texture | Don’t overbake; check oven temp accuracy |
| Not enough apple flavor | Ensure cider is reduced properly |
| Cinnamon sugar falls off | Apply while cake is warm and moist |
Variations to Try
- Maple Glazed Version: Drizzle with maple glaze instead of cinnamon sugar.
- Apple Chunk Twist: Fold in 1 cup finely chopped apples for texture.
- Mini Bundts or Muffins: Bake in smaller pans for individual servings.
Final Thoughts
This Cozy Apple Cider Donut Cake is everything fall baking should be — comforting, flavorful, and easy enough to whip up on a weekend morning. It’s the kind of cake that makes your kitchen smell like a cider mill and your heart feel a little warmer.
So grab your favorite sweater, pour a mug of cider, and let’s bake something that tastes like autumn.
Happy baking, friends!