Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake is a fun twist on two classic treats rolled into one! It’s soft and moist like a cake, but has all the warm spices and sweet tang of fresh apple cider donuts. You’ll notice the cozy cinnamon and nutmeg flavors that remind you of crisp fall days, with little bursts of apple goodness in every bite.
I love making this snack cake when I want something simple but special to share with family or friends. It’s not too fancy, but still feels like a treat, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a casual get-together. I often enjoy it warm with a cup of tea or cider, and sometimes I sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar on top for that classic donut touch.
This cake brings back memories of fall fairs and cozy mornings when a freshly baked apple cider donut was the best start to the day. Making it at home is such a comforting way to bring that feeling indoors anytime you want. Plus, it’s easy to slice and share, so everyone gets a little taste of that autumn magic.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apple Cider: This brings a warm and fruity flavor to the cake. You can substitute with apple juice if needed, just reduce it by simmering to concentrate the flavor.
Butter: Melted butter adds richness. For a dairy-free option, try melted coconut oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice give that classic apple cider donut taste. If you don’t have allspice, just leave it out or add a pinch of cloves for extra warmth.
Flour: All-purpose flour works best here for the soft texture. You can swap half for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor but expect a denser cake.
How Do You Get the Perfect Cinnamon Sugar Coating?
Coating the cakes right after baking is key to making them taste like apple cider donuts. Here’s how:
- Brush each warm cake with melted butter while still slightly hot. This helps the sugar stick.
- Immediately roll or dip the buttered cake in cinnamon sugar mix. Don’t wait, or the coating won’t stick well.
- Use a shallow bowl or plate for the cinnamon sugar so you can easily roll the cakes evenly.
- If you like, toss the coated cakes gently in a paper bag with the sugar mix for an extra even coat.
This simple step gives the snack cake a crunchy, sweet, cinnamon-sugar crust that’s soft inside—just like a donut!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mini bundt or donut pan – I use it because it creates classic donut shapes and helps the cakes bake evenly.
- Saucepan – useful for reducing the apple cider to concentrate its flavor.
- Mixing bowls – perfect for mixing wet and dry ingredients separately.
- Whisk or spoon – makes blending the ingredients smooth and easy.
- Brush or spoon – for coating the cakes with melted butter before cinnamon sugar.
- Wire rack – to cool the cakes without sogginess and get that perfect glaze or coating.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Fill with caramel or apple compote – add a sweet surprise inside for extra flavor.
- Top with cream cheese frosting or glaze – for a richer, more decadent treat.
- Use pear or cranberry instead of apple – swaps the fruit for a different seasonal twist.
- Add chopped nuts or oats in the batter – for crunch and texture, great for breakfast or snack.
Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground allspice (optional)
For Coating:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for coating)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, around 10-12 minutes to bake, plus some cooling time and a little extra for coating the cakes. In total, plan for about 35-40 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Reduce Apple Cider:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a mini bundt cake pan or mini donut pan. Pour the apple cider into a small saucepan, bring it to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook down, stirring occasionally, until it reduces to about 1/4 cup, which should take 10-15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until smooth and combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and the cooled, reduced apple cider. Mix gently until smooth.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional allspice.
4. Make the Batter:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the cake might be dense.
5. Bake the Cakes:
Spoon the batter into each cavity of the prepared mini pans, filling about 3/4 full. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Prepare the Coating:
While the cakes bake, mix together the sugar and cinnamon in a shallow bowl.
7. Coat the Cakes:
When the cakes are done, let them cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then carefully remove each cake and brush them with melted butter. Immediately dip or roll them in the cinnamon-sugar mixture to coat evenly on all sides.
8. Cool and Serve:
Place the coated cakes on a wire rack and let them cool completely. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature for a soft, sweet, donut-inspired snack with warm apple and spice flavors.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Cider Donut Snack Cake with a cup of tea or apple cider for a cozy treat!
Can I Use Apple Juice Instead of Apple Cider?
Yes, you can substitute apple juice if you don’t have cider. To keep the flavor concentrated, simmer the juice until it reduces to about 1/4 cup before adding it to the batter.
What Can I Use if I Don’t Have a Mini Donut or Bundt Pan?
You can use a regular muffin pan as an alternative. Just reduce the baking time slightly and keep an eye on the cakes to avoid overbaking.
How Should I Store Leftover Snack Cakes?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Warm gently before serving for the best flavor.
Can I Make the Cake Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Bake the cakes and keep them uncoated in an airtight container. When ready to serve, brush with butter and coat with cinnamon sugar fresh for the best texture.
