Fall is here, and there's no better way to celebrate than with an Apple Cider Doughnut Bundt Cake! This cake is packed with the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, making it the perfect treat for crisp autumn days. In this post, I'll guide you through easy steps to create a moist, delicious bundt cake that will wow your friends and family. Get ready to enjoy a slice of fall with every bite!

Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 2 cups apple cider
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup buttermilk
- Coating: ½ cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
Ingredient Notes
Using unsalted butter helps control the salt in your cake. It allows the sweet and spicy flavors to shine. Salted butter can make the cake taste too salty.
Fresh apple cider gives the best taste. It has a rich, fruity flavor that store-bought cider may lack. Look for cider made from fresh apples without added sugars. This will enhance your cake’s flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking.
2. Prepare your bundt pan. Grease it well with baking spray or softened butter. Make sure to coat every nook to stop the cake from sticking.
3. Reduce the apple cider. In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer until it’s down to 1 cup. This takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Let it cool a bit before using.
Mixing Wet Ingredients
1. Combine the melted butter, sugars, and reduced cider. In a large bowl, mix the melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and reduced apple cider. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add the eggs and vanilla extract. Crack the eggs in one at a time. Beat well after each. Then stir in the vanilla extract until it’s all blended.
Combining Dry Ingredients and Batter
1. Whisk the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Make sure they are well combined.
2. Alternate adding dry and wet ingredients. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mix. Do this while adding the buttermilk too. Start and end with the flour mix. Stir just until combined.
Baking
1. Pour the batter into the pan. Carefully pour it into the prepared bundt pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly and smooth the top.
2. Bake the cake. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Check if it’s done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, it’s ready!
Tips & Tricks
Baking Precision
Measuring ingredients is key for great baking. Use a scale for accuracy. If you don't have one, fill your measuring cups gently without packing. This way, you avoid too much flour. Overmixing can make your cake tough. When mixing, stop as soon as you see no dry flour. A few lumps are okay!
Cooling and Finishing Touches
Cooling your cake is important to keep it moist. Let it sit in the pan for 15 minutes. Then, flip it onto a wire rack. This prevents sogginess. For the cinnamon-sugar coating, use a shallow dish. Roll the cake gently in the mix for even coverage. This adds a sweet crunch.
Presentation Ideas
Drizzling a glaze makes your cake even more special. Mix powdered sugar with a bit of apple cider for a simple glaze. This adds shine and sweetness. For serving, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream beside the cake. This makes each slice a treat!
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can make this cake even better with some fun additions. Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans gives a nice crunch. You can also mix in raisins for a sweet surprise. Both options add texture and taste. For spices, try adding ginger or allspice. These spices can give a warm kick that works well with the apple cider flavor.
Dietary Adaptations
If you need a gluten-free option, you can swap the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a gluten-free blend. This keeps the cake moist and tasty. For those who need dairy-free, use almond milk or coconut milk instead of buttermilk. Just add a splash of vinegar to mimic the tangy flavor of buttermilk.
Serving Style
For a fun twist, consider making mini bundt cakes. This makes serving easy and fun for gatherings. You can also layer the cake with icing or whipped cream for added sweetness. Drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and apple cider adds a lovely touch. These ideas make your cake look as good as it tastes!
Storage Info
Storing the Cake
To keep your Apple Cider Doughnut Bundt Cake fresh, wrap it well. Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in an airtight container at room temperature. This keeps the cake moist and tasty for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze slices of the cake for later enjoyment. First, let the cake cool completely. Then, slice it into individual pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag. This way, they stay fresh for up to three months.
When you want to enjoy a slice, remove it from the freezer. Thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best taste. You can also let it sit at room temperature for a couple of hours. Enjoy your cake warm, just like fresh from the oven!
FAQs
How do I know when my bundt cake is done?
To check if your bundt cake is done, use a toothpick. Insert the toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. You can also look for a golden color on top and slight pulling away from the pan edges. This means the cake has baked properly.
Can I substitute apple cider with another liquid?
Yes, you can use apple juice instead of apple cider. It will still give a nice apple flavor. Other options include pear juice or even a light tea for a unique twist. However, make sure the liquid you choose matches the sweetness of apple cider.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover cake?
To reheat your bundt cake, slice it and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it for 10-15 seconds. You can also use an oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the slices for about 5-7 minutes. Both methods keep the cake moist.
How long does the cake last at room temperature?
Your apple cider doughnut bundt cake will last about 3 days at room temperature. Keep it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you want to store it longer, consider refrigerating it. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.
You can create a delightful apple cider bundt cake using the right ingredients and methods. We covered everything from baking techniques to storage tips. Remember to measure ingredients well and enjoy the process of making this cake. Feel free to try different variations to make it your own. Each bite offers a warm, spiced flavor that elevates any occasion. Follow these tips, and you’ll impress everyone with your baking skills. Enjoy your delicious creation!

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