Name: Apple Cider Bundt Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Coating and Apple Cider Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups (395g) all purpose flour (see notes for GF version); 3/4 cup (150g) light brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar; 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup (240g) apple cider; 1/2 cup (125g) unsweetened applesauce; 1 cup (225g) vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 2 tbsp apple cider; 1/3 cup (70g) granulated sugar; 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 cup (100g) powdered sugar; 3–4 tsp apple cider

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 15 reviews

If you are craving a dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite, this Apple Cider Bundt Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Coating and Apple Cider Glaze Recipe is your new best friend. Inspired by the cozy flavors of baked apple cider donuts, this cake is wonderfully moist and tender, wrapped in a warm cinnamon sugar coating and topped with a luscious apple cider glaze that perfectly balances sweetness and tang. Each slice is like a celebration of apple cider goodness that feels like a comforting hug on a crisp day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with smooth, thick white sauce or cream is placed on a white marbled surface. A silver spoon with an intricate handle design is held above the bowl by a woman's hand, slowly dripping the creamy white liquid back into the bowl. The background shows a soft, blurred white textured object, creating a clean and simple setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things beautifully simple but every ingredient plays a crucial role in building that rich flavor and tender crumb you expect from a perfect bundt cake. From the warm spices that bring depth to the apple cider that adds moisture and dimension, this collection of pantry staples and fresh ingredients come together to create a showstopper you won’t want to share.

3 cups (395g) all purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure and a tender crumb.
3/4 cup (150g) light brown sugar, packed: Adds caramel notes and moistness to the batter.
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar: Balances sweetness with a subtle crunch.
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Brings that signature warm spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg: A hint of earthy spice for a cozy flavor boost.
1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the acidic apple cider to create lightness.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors without being salty.
1 cup (240g) apple cider: The star ingredient, contributing moisture and authentic apple flavor.
1/2 cup (125g) unsweetened applesauce: Adds natural sweetness and moistness without heaviness.
1 cup (225g) vegetable oil: Keeps the cake incredibly moist and tender.
3 large eggs: Bind everything together and enrich the batter.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and spices with a smooth aromatic touch.
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted: For the cinnamon sugar coating, adding richness and helping it stick.
2 tbsp apple cider: Mixed with melted butter to infuse more cider flavor into the coating.
1/3 cup (70g) granulated sugar: For the cinnamon sugar coating, providing a crisp sugary layer.
3/4 tsp ground cinnamon: Added to the coating for an extra warm spice hit.
1 cup (100g) powdered sugar: The base of the apple cider glaze, giving that sweet finishing touch.
3–4 tsp apple cider: Mixed into the glaze for flavor and perfect drizzling consistency.

How to Make Apple Cider Bundt Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Coating and Apple Cider Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Generously coat the inside of a 10-cup bundt pan with nonstick spray, then dust it lightly with flour to ensure your cake releases easily and maintains its beautiful shape. Taking this extra step guarantees a flawless bundt cake presentation every time.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift the all-purpose flour for lightness, then whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients are the foundation of your cake, distributing natural sweetness and warming spices evenly to every bite.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the apple cider, unsweetened applesauce, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and perfectly combined. This mixture provides moisture and rich flavors that will shine through in the finished cake.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl, carefully whisking just until everything is combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your cake tender and not tough. You want a batter that holds together but still feels light and airy.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top evenly. Transfer it to the oven and bake for about 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma at this stage is incredible, filling your kitchen with scents of cinnamon and apple cider.

Step 6: Cool and Remove from Pan

Allow your cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire cooling rack. This resting period lets the cake firm up slightly, making it easier to handle and helping it keep its stunning bundt shape.

Step 7: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar Coating

Once the cake has cooled for about 30 minutes, combine melted butter and apple cider in a small bowl. In a separate bowl, mix granulated sugar with cinnamon to create the perfect cinnamon sugar blend. Brush the apple cider butter mixture generously all over the cake, then immediately press the cinnamon sugar onto the surface. This coating adds a delightful crunch and a burst of sweet spice that makes every bite unforgettable.

Step 8: Drizzle the Apple Cider Glaze

For the finishing touch, mix powdered sugar with apple cider one teaspoon at a time until you reach a pourable but slightly thick glaze consistency. Drizzle generously over the cake, allowing it to cascade over the edges. The glaze adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the cinnamon sugar coating and moist cake crumb.

How to Serve Apple Cider Bundt Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Coating and Apple Cider Glaze Recipe

A sliced bundt cake with a light brown, soft, and slightly crumbly inside texture sits on a round wire cooling rack placed on a white marbled surface. The cake’s outside is golden brown with a shiny glaze coating that drips slightly down the sides. The slices are evenly cut, showing the dense but tender crumb inside, and the whole cake forms a ring shape with ridges running along the edges. The background is softly blurred in light tones. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your serving extra special, try garnishing slices with fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans. A dusting of extra cinnamon sugar can also bring a sparkle to the presentation while enhancing flavors. These simple touches add beautiful texture and a fresh twist to this already stellar cake.

Side Dishes

This bundt cake pairs beautifully with warm beverages like spiced chai tea, hot apple cider, or even a cup of rich coffee. For a more decadent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Both options play subtly with the cake’s spices and cider undertones to give a truly comforting experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings or holiday celebrations, consider slicing the cake into small chunks and serving it on a dessert platter with forks. You might also arrange individual slices with a few roasted apple wedges, a drizzle of additional glaze, and a sprig of fresh mint for a restaurant-worthy look that’s sure to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover Apple Cider Bundt Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Coating and Apple Cider Glaze Recipe fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist while preserving the crunchy cinnamon coating and tangy glaze layers.

Freezing

If you want to keep the cake longer, slice and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. You can freeze slices for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

For a cozy treat, gently warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This helps revive the fragrant spices and softens the glaze slightly, simulating that fresh-from-the-oven feeling. Be careful not to overheat or the sugar coating may become too soft.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour for this cake?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is suitable for baking. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or add a stabilizer to help provide structure. The texture may be slightly different but the flavor remains equally delicious.

What type of apple cider is best for this recipe?

Use fresh, unfiltered apple cider (not apple juice) for the most authentic flavor. Its natural tang and depth give this bundt cake its unique character that you won’t get from sweetened juices or concentrates.

How can I make the cinnamon sugar coating stick better?

Brushing the cake generously with the melted butter and apple cider mixture sets the stage for the cinnamon sugar to adhere wonderfully. Be sure to press the cinnamon sugar gently but firmly onto the surface before it dries for the best coverage and texture.

Is this cake suitable for a crowd?

Absolutely! This bundt cake yields about 12-14 slices depending on how thick you cut them. It’s perfect for sharing at family gatherings, holiday parties, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal fuss.

Can I make the apple cider glaze ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the glaze a few hours ahead and store it covered in the fridge. Before drizzling, give it a quick stir and add a splash of apple cider if it has thickened too much. This makes assembling the cake on the day of serving super simple and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Bundt Cake with Cinnamon Sugar Coating and Apple Cider Glaze Recipe is an absolute joy to bake and even more enjoyable to eat. It brings cozy fall flavors to life in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh. Whether you make it for a special occasion or just to brighten a regular day, this cake is bound to become a much-loved staple in your baking repertoire. Give it a try and watch it disappear faster than you can say “apple cider”