Description

This Apple Cider Doughnut Cake is moist, flavorful, and inspired by the classic taste of apple cider doughnuts. Made with apple cider, applesauce, and warm cinnamon, the cake has a soft texture and rich fall flavor. A buttery cinnamon-sugar coating on the outside gives it that signature doughnut-style finish, making it perfect for dessert, brunch, or cozy autumn gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake

1 (15.25 oz) box yellow cake mix or spice cake mix
1 cup apple cider (not apple juice and not apple cider vinegar)
1/2 cup applesauce (cinnamon applesauce works well)
3 large eggs, room temperature
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

2 tablespoons cinnamon
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup melted butter

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure the cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the cake mix, apple cider, applesauce, and eggs until well combined. Add the cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract, then mix until the batter is smooth.

Step 3: Bake the Cake
Grease a bundt pan well using cooking spray or baking spray with flour. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and place it on the center rack of the oven. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow the cake to cool on a wire rack for about 20 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix the cinnamon and sugar together until evenly combined.

Step 5: Coat the Cake
Brush the entire surface of the cooled cake with melted butter. Sprinkle or rub the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the cake until fully coated.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes