apple cider donut cake recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
apple cider donut cake recipe
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The Best apple cider donut cake recipe

This apple cider donut cake is one of those recipes that feels like a hug for my family’s table. It’s not just a dessert—it’s a way to bring people together, whether it’s a Sunday morning after church or a late-night snack after the kids are in bed. The warm, spiced flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg blend with the sweetness of fresh apple cider, making every bite feel like a cozy hug. My kids swear by it, too, especially when it’s served with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight but feels special when it’s for a holiday gathering or just because.

I love that this cake is naturally sweetened with applesauce and a touch of maple syrup, so it’s lighter than traditional donut cake but still packed with flavor. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy to customize—swap the applesauce for Greek yogurt if you prefer a denser texture, or add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top for extra crunch. Plus, the applesauce helps keep it moist, so it doesn’t dry out like some cakes can. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal apples without worrying about too much sugar, and it’s always a hit with guests, whether it’s for a birthday, a potluck, or just because we’re all craving something comforting.

Apple Cider Donut Cake with Warm Spiced Glaze

Apple Cider Donut Cake with Warm Spiced Glaze

4.8 from 1594 votes

A moist, spiced cake infused with autumn flavors, topped with a sticky apple cider glaze that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time60 mins
Servings: 12Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Cake
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup unsweetened applesauce
  • 1 cup apple cider
For the Glaze
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup apple cider
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

👨‍🍳Directions

  1. 1
    Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
  2. 2
    In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
  3. 3
    In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla. Stir in applesauce and apple cider.
  4. 4
    Gradually add dry ingredients to wet, mixing just until combined. Pour batter into the prepared pan.
  5. 5
    Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
  6. 6
    For the glaze, melt butter, sugar, apple cider, and cinnamon in a saucepan over medium heat until smooth. Cool slightly, then pipe over the cake.

🔧Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Oven-safe baking pan (9×13 inches)
  • Piping bag or ziplock bag with corner cut

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18💛Saturated Fat: 10❤️Cholesterol: 60🧂Sodium: 550🌾Total Carbs: 55🥦Dietary Fiber: 1🍬Sugars: 45🥩Protein: 5

📝Notes

Tips: For extra moisture, replace applesauce with mashed ripe bananas. Let the cake cool fully before slicing to prevent a soggy glaze. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Apple Cider Donut Cake with Warm Spiced Glaze Works

This apple cider donut cake is the perfect way to bring a cozy, crowd-pleasing treat to any gathering. Its spiced flavor and moist texture make it a hit with kids and adults alike, and the simple frosting lets everyone customize their own slice. It’s easy to double the batch if you’re serving a larger group, and the warm spices pair beautifully with fall flavors—whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or just craving something comforting after a long week.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Cider Donut Cake with Warm Spiced Glaze

1. What is the best way to store apple cider donut cake after baking?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to five days or freeze for up to three months. When reheating, warm slices in a toaster or microwave for about 10–15 seconds to restore softness.

2. Can I substitute applesauce for apples in this recipe?

Yes, you can use unsweetened applesauce in a 1:1 ratio, but expect a slightly denser texture and less pronounced apple flavor. For best results, use fresh grated apples or a mix of grated apples and applesauce to balance moisture and taste.

3. How do I prevent the cake from becoming too dry after baking?

Keep the oven door slightly ajar during baking to allow steam to escape, which helps retain moisture. After baking, let the cake cool completely before slicing to prevent condensation from making it soggy. If needed, brush the top with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple glaze while warm.

4. What if I don’t have a muffin tin with deep sides?

Use a greased loaf pan or a cake pan instead. For a muffin tin, line the bottom of each cup with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Adjust baking time by about 5–10 minutes if using a larger pan, checking for doneness at the 15-minute mark.

5. Can I make this cake ahead of time for a party?

Absolutely! Assemble the cake layers and frosting ahead of time, then refrigerate until ready to serve. When serving, let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften the frosting before cutting. For a more elegant presentation, pipe the frosting onto the cake just before serving.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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