Get ready for fall with my irresistible Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake recipe! This tasty cake captures the sweet, spiced goodness of your favorite apple cider donuts. With a moist texture and a warm aroma, it’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a treat after school. In this post, I’ll share the simple steps to create this delightful cake, along with tips to make it your own. Let’s dive in and bake something amazing!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake
– 2 cups apple cider
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
These ingredients come together to create a moist and flavorful cake. The apple cider gives it a rich apple flavor. Both sugars add sweetness and depth. Eggs and oil help keep it tender. The spices bring warmth and comfort.
Optional Ingredients for Serving
– Thin apple slices for garnish
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Using thin apple slices or a sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a lovely touch. It enhances the autumn feel and makes each slice even more appealing.
Baking Tools Needed
– 10-cup Bundt pan
– Mixing bowls
– Whisk
– Spatula
– Small saucepan
– Toothpick for testing doneness
– Wire rack for cooling
These tools are key for making your bundt cake. A good Bundt pan shapes the cake well. Mixing bowls help combine your ingredients easily. A toothpick is essential to check if your cake is ready.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Bundt Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease a 10-cup Bundt pan. I like to use vegetable oil or butter for this. After greasing, sprinkle some flour into the pan. This helps the cake come out easily later.
Making the Apple Cider Reduction
Next, grab a small saucepan. Pour in 2 cups of apple cider. Heat it over medium heat until it boils. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until it shrinks to about 1 cup, which takes 10-15 minutes. This step is key to getting that rich apple flavor. After it reduces, set it aside to cool slightly.
Mixing Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1/2 cup of vegetable oil. Whisk them together until smooth. Add in 3 large eggs and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. Mix until it looks creamy. Now, stir in the cooled apple cider and 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Gradually add this dry mix to the wet mix. Stir gently until combined.
Baking the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared Bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake. Place it in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Cooling and Coating the Cake
After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes. This makes it easier to remove. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. While it cools, mix 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon in a small bowl. Once the cake is cool, coat it in the cinnamon-sugar mix. You can either roll it or sprinkle it over the top. This sweet touch makes it even better!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture of Your Bundt Cake
To get the best texture, use fresh apple cider. The fresh cider gives moisture and flavor. Reducing the cider thickens it and enhances its taste. Make sure to mix your wet and dry ingredients gently. Overmixing can make the cake tough. Bake the cake until a toothpick comes out clean. This means it is ready to enjoy.
How to Avoid Sticking to Bundt Pan
To prevent sticking, grease your Bundt pan well. Use butter or cooking spray. Dust the pan with flour after greasing. This helps create a barrier. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a rack. If it still sticks, gently run a knife around the edges.
Enhancing Flavor with Spices
Spices make this cake special. Don’t skip the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. They add warmth and depth. You can also try adding ginger or allspice. Mix the spices into your dry ingredients. This ensures an even flavor throughout the cake. For a twist, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract. This will brighten the taste even more.
Variations
Adding Nuts or Other Fruits
You can add nuts or fruits to your Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake for extra flavor. Walnuts or pecans work well. Chop them into small pieces and fold them into the batter. You can also add diced apples. They add moisture and a nice texture. Just make sure to keep the amounts balanced. About one cup of nuts or fruits is great.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
If you need a gluten-free version, it’s easy to adapt this recipe. Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend. Look for a blend that includes xanthan gum, as it helps with texture. You can also use almond flour for a nutty taste. Just remember, the baking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it.
Creative Frosting Ideas
Frosting can take your bundt cake to the next level. A simple glaze made with powdered sugar and apple cider is a great choice. Mix one cup of powdered sugar with two tablespoons of cider until smooth. For a richer option, try cream cheese frosting. Beat together eight ounces of cream cheese, four tablespoons of butter, and one cup of powdered sugar. This adds creaminess and pairs well with the spices in the cake.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To keep your Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake fresh, store it properly. Place the cake in an airtight container. If you don’t have one, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This will help keep moisture in and prevent it from drying out. Store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigeration is an option, but it may change the texture slightly.
How to Freeze Bundt Cake
If you have extra cake, freezing is a great choice. First, let the cake cool completely. Next, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, it can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you want to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating Tips for Enjoying Later
To enjoy your Apple Cider Donut Bundt Cake again, reheat it gently. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it for 10 to 15 seconds, checking to avoid overheating. If you prefer, you can warm it in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 5 to 10 minutes. This will make the cake soft and delightful once more.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought apple cider?
Yes, you can use store-bought apple cider. It saves time and still adds good flavor. Look for a cider that is pure, without added sugars or preservatives. This ensures your cake tastes fresh and rich. If you want a stronger apple flavor, simmer it down as the recipe shows. This step concentrates the taste and makes your cake even better.
How do I know when the bundt cake is done baking?
To check if your bundt cake is done, use a toothpick. Insert it into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, bake for a few more minutes. Remember, every oven is different. So, keep an eye on your cake starting at 45 minutes.
What can I use instead of applesauce?
If you don’t have applesauce, try using mashed bananas or yogurt. Both options keep the cake moist and add sweetness. You could also use pumpkin puree for a unique twist. Just make sure to adjust the spices to match your substitution. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious bundt cake!
In this post, I shared how to make a tasty apple cider donut bundt cake. We covered ingredients, tools, and step-by-step instructions. I also shared tips for the best texture and flavor.
Feel free to get creative with variations and enjoy the cake later with proper storage. Baking takes practice, but you’ll make a cake to impress yourself and others! Happy baking!
