There’s nothing quite like the feeling of fall in the air, and this recipe captures that seasonal magic in every moist bite! After a long day of running errands, I found myself craving the warm comforts of home-baked goodness, and that’s when I knew I had to whip up the best apple cider donut cake you’ll bake all fall. As the sweet aroma of cinnamon and freshly grated apples fills your kitchen, you’ll feel wrapped in the cozy embrace of autumn.

This cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a reminder of crisp apple-picking days and joyful gatherings with friends. With just a few simple ingredients, this easy-to-make loaf brings the flavors of classic apple cider donuts to your table, making it the perfect treat for gatherings or an indulgent evening at home. Let’s get baking and create a slice of fall that you—and your loved ones—will savor!

Why is this Best Apple Cider Donut Cake special?

Irresistible Flavor: Every bite bursts with rich apple and warm cinnamon, evoking the true essence of fall.
Moist Texture: This cake stays delectably moist, thanks to the reduced apple cider and freshly grated apples.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers will shine in the kitchen!
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for gatherings, this cake is bound to impress friends and family alike.
Versatile Options: Enjoy it as a dessert or a sweet breakfast treat; add a drizzle of caramel for an extra indulgence!

For more delightful recipes perfect for fall gatherings, check out our collection of easy autumn desserts.

Best Apple Cider Donut Cake Ingredients

For the Cake
Fresh Apple Cider – This is crucial for concentrated apple flavor; stick to real apple cider for the best results.
All-Purpose Flour – The foundation of the cake; precise measurement is key to achieving perfect texture.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds the warm spice that makes this cake feel like fall; don’t skip it!
Fine Sea Salt – Enhances the sweetness and balances flavors, making each bite delightful.
Baking Powder – A leavening agent that helps the cake rise and maintain its moistness.
Baking Soda – Works alongside the acid from the apple cider to boost the cake’s rise.
Nutmeg – Offers a subtle warmth; allspice can be a suitable substitute if you’re in a pinch.
Red Apples – Freshly grated apples enhance moisture and flavor; opt for a tart variety for balance.
Vegetable Oil – Contributes to the cake’s tenderness; applesauce is a lighter substitute you can use.
Dark Brown Sugar – Adds a depth of flavor and moisture; light brown sugar can stand in if needed.
Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients and contributes richness; make sure they’re at room temperature for optimal mixing.
For the Topping
Granulated Sugar – This sweetens the cinnamon sugar coating for that perfect finish.
Cinnamon – A dash on top enhances the aromatic appeal, making your cake extra inviting.
Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds richness and helps the cinnamon sugar adhere beautifully.

This best apple cider donut cake will surely be a highlight of your fall baking adventures! Enjoy every delicious slice!

How to Make Best Apple Cider Donut Cake

Reduce Cider: Cook fresh apple cider in a pot over medium heat until reduced by half. This will concentrate the apple flavor, making your cake that much more delicious.
Prep Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper. This ensures easy release and a perfectly baked cake.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, fine sea salt, baking powder, baking soda, and nutmeg. This blend adds the essential flavor and structure.
Prepare Apples: Grate the red apples, squeezing out excess juice. Set aside 1 cup of the grated apples—this moisture will keep the cake tender.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the vegetable oil, dark brown sugar, room temperature eggs, the grated apples, and the reduced apple cider. Stir until well combined—you’ll love the aroma!
Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to maintain that lovely moist texture.
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture on top. Bake for 50-60 minutes until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then remove it and cool completely on a wire rack to enhance the flavors.
Finish: Brush the cooled cake with melted butter and sprinkle any remaining cinnamon sugar on top for a beautiful finish.

Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Pairing this delightful dessert with the right accompaniments elevates your experience, wrapping you in the warm essence of fall.

Warm Caramel Sauce: Drizzle over each slice for an indulgent touch, enhancing the cake’s flavors while adding a decadent sweetness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the moist cake, creating a deliciously comforting pairing. Scoops of melting ice cream on warm cake create a delightful experience.
Cinnamon Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this spiced cream brings an extra layer of sweetness that complements the apple and cinnamon notes perfectly.
Crisp Green Apples: Fresh apple slices provide a refreshing crunch, balancing the sweetness of the cake while echoing its flavor.
Chai or Spiced Tea: Infused with warm spices, this drink creates a campfire cozy feel. Sip slowly as you enjoy your cake for a heartwarming evening.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: Adding a touch of maple syrup enhances the cake’s sweetness, making each bite feel like a comforting hug on a cool autumn day.
Cream Cheese Glaze: A tangy glaze adds richness and a sweet contrast to the cake, making it even more irresistible.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Celebrate the season with a steaming cup that echoes the flavors in your cake, inviting you to savor each delicious moment.

Best Apple Cider Donut Cake Variations

Bring your own creative twist to this delightful cake—get ready to explore exciting possibilities!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, ensuring a delectable treat for everyone to enjoy.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of vanilla extract to elevate the flavor profile with a subtle heat.
Nutty Delight: Fold in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the cake beautifully.
Dairy-Free: Replace the unsalted butter with coconut oil and use a plant-based egg substitute for an equally delicious dairy-free version.
Maple Infusion: For a sweet twist, drizzle maple syrup over the top after baking to enhance the cake’s flavors and add a rich finish.
Apple-Blackberry Fusion: Mix in a cup of fresh blackberries for a tart contrast that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of apples.
Mini Versions: Bake the batter in a muffin tin for adorable mini cakes—perfect for brunch gatherings or lunchbox treats.
Chocolate Drizzle: Top with a light drizzle of melted dark chocolate to give your apple cider donut cake an indulgent touch!

Expert Tips for the Best Apple Cider Donut Cake

Use Fresh Cider: Opt for real apple cider instead of apple juice to ensure your cake has that authentic flavor. This step is crucial for the best apple cider donut cake.
Room Temperature Eggs: Bringing your eggs to room temperature helps them blend more easily with the other ingredients, enhancing the cake’s texture.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep your cake moist and tender. Over-mixing can lead to a dense result.
Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the cake; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not completely clean. This keeps the cake perfectly moist.
Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its shape and avoids sogginess.

Storage Tips for Best Apple Cider Donut Cake

Room Temperature: Keep the cake at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh and moist.

Fridge: If you have leftovers, place the cake in the fridge for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to retain moisture and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze the cake for up to one month. Slice it before freezing for easy access, and use airtight freezer bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: For the best experience, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Enjoy the delightful scent of apple cider in your kitchen!

Make Ahead Options

These Best Apple Cider Donut Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, grate the apples and refrigerate them in an airtight bag to keep them fresh before baking. If you’re short on time, consider preparing the entire cake batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. On baking day, allow the batter to come to room temperature, then pour it into the prepared pan and bake as directed. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your cake without the last-minute rush!

Best Apple Cider Donut Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for the best flavor?
I recommend using tart red apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for the best flavor in your cake. These apples enhance the rich apple cider taste and maintain moisture throughout baking.

How should I store the cake to keep it fresh?
To keep your cake fresh, store it at room temperature in an airtight container for 3-4 days. If you need to store it longer, place it in the fridge for up to 5 days, ensuring it’s tightly wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture.

Can I freeze the Best Apple Cider Donut Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake for up to one month. I often slice it before freezing for convenience. Simply wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, this could be due to over-mixing the batter. When combining wet and dry ingredients, gently fold until just combined. Also, ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can hinder rise.

Can pets eat apple cider donut cake?
It’s best to avoid letting pets eat apple cider donut cake. Ingredients like sugar and spices, particularly nutmeg, can be harmful to dogs and cats. Stick to pet-safe treats to keep your furry friends happy!

Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes! To make a dairy-free version, replace the unsalted butter with a dairy-free alternative and use non-dairy milk instead of any melted butter in the topping. There are many great substitutes like coconut or almond milk that will work beautifully.