Name: Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups oat flour; 1 1/2 cups sugar; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup apple cider; 3/4 cup applesauce; 3/4 cup vegetable oil (safflower oil recommended); 3 large eggs (room temperature); 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 tsp cinnamon

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 88 reviews

If you’re looking to bring the cozy flavors of fall right into your kitchen, the Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe is the perfect treat to make. Imagine tender, spiced cake infused with crisp apple cider and topped with a sweet cinnamon sugar crunch just like your favorite autumn doughnut — all without the hassle of frying. This cake not only fills your home with an irresistible aroma but also creates moments of pure joy around the table. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or an anytime snack, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients You'll Need

This image shows a dark gray Bundt cake pan with a shiny surface and a simple scalloped edge shape. It has a hole in the center and rounded ridges running from the center to the outer edge, creating a fluted design. The pan is placed on a white marbled surface, and there are no other items or food inside it. The overall look is clean and modern, with a smooth metallic texture and subtle reflections on the pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients might seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect texture, flavor, and beautiful color of this Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe. They come together to create a moist, tender crumb and that irresistible cinnamon sugar topping you can’t resist.

2 cups all purpose flour: The backbone of your cake, providing structure and the perfect crumb.

1 ½ cups oat flour: Adds a subtle nuttiness and works wonderfully with the apple flavors.
1 ½ cups sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps with moisture retention for a tender bite.
1 teaspoon cinnamon: Brings that warm, spicy note that defines this cake’s personality.

1 ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully and become fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the apple cider to create lift and lightness.
½ teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances sweetness.
1 cup apple cider: The star ingredient that infuses juicy apple goodness throughout the cake.

¾ cup applesauce: Adds moisture and natural sweetness while keeping it tender.
¾ cup vegetable oil (safflower recommended): Keeps the cake rich and soft without overpowering flavors.
3 large eggs (room temperature): Bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s light texture.

2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor profile with subtle sweetness.
2 tablespoon unsalted butter (melted): For brushing on top before the cinnamon sugar coating, adding a delicious richness.
¼ cup sugar & ½ teaspoon cinnamon (for topping): Creates the signature sugary crust reminiscent of doughnuts.

How to Make Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Then, generously butter and flour your bundt pan, making sure you cover every nook and cranny. This step is absolutely essential — it ensures your cake will release beautifully without sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all purpose flour, oat flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until everything is well combined. This blend of spices and leaveners is what will give your cake its perfect lift and cozy flavor profile.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the apple cider, applesauce, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mixing these separately helps ensure even distribution before folding them into the dry mixture.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here — you want a tender cake, so a few lumps are perfectly fine. This is where the magic starts coming together!

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan and pop it into the oven for 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it and test for doneness by inserting a toothpick near the center — it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs but no wet batter. Once baked, set the pan on a cooling rack for 15 minutes to start the cooling process.

Step 6: Add the Signature Cinnamon Sugar Topping

While the cake cools slightly, mix together the ¼ cup sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon for the topping. Carefully invert the cake onto a plate, brush the warm surface with melted butter, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar blend generously all over. This topping is the crowning glory that gives the cake its doughnut-like finish.

How to Serve Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe

A round bundt cake with a dark golden-brown crust covered in a layer of sugar, showing a soft, light brown inside where a slice has been removed and placed slightly forward. The cake sits on a white marbled surface next to a knife with a wooden handle and a silver blade, with sugar crystals scattered around. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The charm of this Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe can be amplified with a few simple garnishes. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds an elegant touch while complementing the apple and cinnamon flavors perfectly. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts can add texture and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This cake feels right at home alongside a warm cup of spiced chai tea, coffee, or even a hot apple cider. For a breakfast or brunch spread, serve it with creamy yogurt or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. The contrasting textures and temperatures make every bite an experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this cake into a stunning centerpiece by placing it on a rustic wooden board decorated with fresh autumn leaves or slices of dried apples. For a fun twist, cut the cake into thick wedges and serve with individual ramekins of whipped cream and caramel drizzle for guests to customize their bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers — though it’s rare to have much! — wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh and moist for up to three days, making for easy grab-and-go snacks.

Freezing

This Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to protect it from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes until just warm. Finish with a fresh sprinkle of cinnamon sugar if desired for that perfect freshly dusted touch.

FAQs

Can I substitute oat flour with another type of flour?

Absolutely! You can use all-purpose flour for a slightly different texture, but oat flour adds a subtle nuttiness and moisture that complements the apple cider beautifully. For gluten-free options, a blend of gluten-free flours can work too, but expect some texture changes.

Is it necessary to use apple cider, or can I use apple juice instead?

Apple cider has a richer, spiced flavor which really elevates the cake, but if you only have apple juice, it will work as well. Just keep in mind the flavor might be a bit lighter, so consider adding a pinch more cinnamon for extra warmth.

Can I make this cake vegan?

With some tweaks, yes! Substitute the eggs with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer, and swap butter for a plant-based alternative. Use a neutral oil and applesauce to keep moisture. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

What pan size works best for this recipe?

A bundt pan is perfect as it allows for even baking and gives you those lovely nooks where the cinnamon sugar topping can cling. A 10-inch bundt pan is ideal. If you use a different shape, baking time might vary, so keep an eye on doneness.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this cake?

Yes! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries can give a nice crunch and added flavor complexity. Fold them gently into the batter before pouring into the pan. It’s a delightful variation that adds texture and interest.

Final Thoughts

Making this Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe is like bringing a slice of autumn right into your home, wrapped in warm spices and sweet apple goodness. It’s easy enough for any day but special enough to impress guests or treat yourself. Don’t hesitate to dive in, bake it up, and share the cozy magic with those you love.

Apple Cider Doughnut Cake Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need