Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake is a sweet treat that feels like fall in every bite. It’s soft and moist with just the right mix of warm spices and apple cider flavor that reminds me of those crisp autumn days. The cake has a lovely cinnamon sugar topping that gives it a donut-like twist, making each slice a little celebration of apple and spice.
I love how simple this cake is to make but how special it tastes. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to when I want something cozy and sweet without too much fuss. I often enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee in the afternoon, and it always feels like a little hug in dessert form. If you want a fun touch, I sometimes warm up my slice and add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt—that extra creaminess makes it even better!
This cake is perfect for sharing with friends or family, especially when the weather starts to turn cool. It’s a snack cake that brings back memories of orchard visits and pumpkin patches for me. If you’re looking for a simple, comforting treat that tastes like a homemade donut without all the frying, this Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake is a winner every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Cider: This gives the cake its signature flavor and helps keep it moist. If you don’t have fresh cider, use apple juice mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar for some tang.
Applesauce: Adds moisture without extra fat. Unsweetened works best, but sweetened can be used—just reduce other sugars slightly.
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves create that warm donut taste. Feel free to adjust amounts or swap cloves for allspice if you like a milder spice.
Butter: Using softened butter helps to create a tender crumb. You can swap for coconut oil for a dairy-free option, but flavor will differ slightly.
How to Get the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Topping?
The cinnamon sugar crust is what makes this cake feel like a donut. Here are my tips:
- Brush the cake with melted butter immediately after baking while it’s hot. This helps the sugar stick well.
- Mix cinnamon and sugar thoroughly for an even coating.
- Sprinkle generously and evenly over the buttered cake to get that classic crunchy topping.
- Let the cake cool for a few minutes before slicing so the topping sets nicely.
This finishing touch gives the cake its delightful crunch and flavor, making each bite extra special.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls – You’ll need these for combining the ingredients easily and keeping everything organized.
- Whisk or electric mixer – Either works well for creamy butter and sugar together for a smooth batter.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements help the cake turn out just right.
- 9-inch round cake pan or bundt pan – For baking the cake evenly and giving it a nice shape.
- Small bowl – To mix the cinnamon sugar topping for easy sprinkling over the cake.
- Brush or spoon – For spreading melted butter on hot baked cake to help the topping stick.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Apple chunks: Fold in chopped apples for extra fruit and texture, perfect for a more filling cake.
- Maple glaze: Drizzle with a simple maple syrup glaze for added sweetness and shine.
- Caramel swirl: Swirl caramel sauce into the batter before baking for a rich, gooey touch.
- Nut topping: Garnish with chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and nutty flavor.
Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ¾ cup apple cider
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 40 to 45 minutes for baking. Allow an additional 20 minutes for cooling before serving, so plan for roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour either a bundt pan or a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. This helps blend the spices evenly into the cake.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars:
In a large bowl, using a mixer or by hand, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mix becomes light and fluffy. This makes the cake tender and sweet.
4. Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients:
Beat the eggs in, one at a time, making sure each is well blended. Then stir in the applesauce and vanilla extract, followed by pouring in the apple cider. These add moisture and the signature apple flavor.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add your dry ingredient mix into the wet ingredients. Stir gently and just until combined — be careful not to overmix, or your cake might become dense.
6. Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center — it should come out clean.
7. Make the Cinnamon Sugar Topping:
While the cake bakes, mix together the granulated sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl to create your topping.
8. Apply Topping and Cool:
Right out of the oven, brush the warm cake with melted butter. Then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping evenly over the cake, sticking to the buttery surface. Let the cake cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes.
9. Serve:
Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. You can serve it warm for a cozy snack or wait until it’s completely cool. Enjoy the soft texture and sweet, cinnamon-spiced crust that make it just like a homemade apple cider donut!
Can I Use Apple Juice Instead of Apple Cider?
Yes, you can substitute apple juice for apple cider, but the flavor will be a bit lighter. To add a slight tang like cider, try mixing in a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar per ¾ cup of juice.
How Should I Store Leftover Cake?
Store leftover cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen cake overnight in the fridge before serving.
Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
Yes! Use a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum to help keep the texture light and moist.
What’s the Best Way to Serve the Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake?
This cake is delicious on its own or warmed slightly with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt. It also pairs nicely with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
