Delicious Donut Cake Recipe: Your Guide to a Perfect Homemade Bundt Cake

Imagine the delightful taste of your favorite fluffy donut, but in the elegant form of a bundt cake, adorned with a luscious glaze and vibrant sprinkles. This **Donut Cake Recipe** delivers exactly that – a truly irresistible dessert that’s surprisingly simple to make. Each slice offers the nostalgic flavor and soft texture of a classic cake donut, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any gathering or a special treat for your family.

This isn’t just any ordinary cake; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture. The cake itself is incredibly soft, moist, and boasts that distinct cake donut crumb, making every bite a heavenly experience. The signature pink icing, with its perfect balance of sweetness, adds a visually appealing touch and an extra layer of deliciousness. One of the best parts is its versatility – you can easily customize the icing color and sprinkle choices to match any holiday, birthday, or special event, making this a truly adaptable and fun dessert to prepare.

If you’re a fan of elegant bundt cakes, you’ll also adore our Blueberry Bundt Cake and Banana Bundt Cake. They offer similarly delightful experiences and are perfect for expanding your bundt cake repertoire!

Why We Love This Donut Cake

This **homemade Donut Cake** quickly became a family favorite, and for good reason. It primarily uses staple pantry ingredients, making it accessible and convenient to whip up whenever a craving strikes. The instructions are incredibly straightforward, ensuring that even novice bakers can achieve a beautifully baked, delicious cake. Forget complicated techniques or specialized equipment; this recipe proves that homemade can be both simple and spectacularly tasty.

One of the biggest advantages of this Donut Cake is that you get all the beloved flavor of donuts without the hassle of deep frying. No hot oil, no greasy mess, and no need for a thermometer – just pure cake perfection baked in the oven. It’s a much lighter take on the classic treat, making it ideal for those who prefer baked goods.

We often bake this **bundt cake** for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special celebrations. Its elegant bundt shape naturally makes it look more impressive than a regular round cake. Plus, it’s so much fun to get creative with the frosting colors and sprinkle designs! You can match the theme of any party or simply let your imagination run wild with different seasonal sprinkles. It’s a wonderful way to add a personal touch to your dessert spread and always brings smiles to faces, young and old.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Donut Cake

Crafting the perfect Donut Cake starts with understanding the role of each ingredient. Here’s a closer look at what makes this cake so special:

For the Moist Cake Base

• Butter: Always use unsalted butter, softened at room temperature. This is crucial for creaming with sugar, creating a light and airy base for your cake. Cold butter won’t cream properly, leading to a denser texture.
• Large Eggs: Like butter, eggs should be at room temperature. This allows them to emulsify better with the butter and sugar mixture, resulting in a smoother batter and a more even, tender cake crumb.
• Granulated Sugar: Provides sweetness and also helps in tenderizing the cake structure when creamed with butter.
• Vanilla Extract: I highly recommend using pure vanilla extract for the best flavor. It enhances all the other ingredients, giving the cake a warm, inviting aroma and taste.
• Cake Flour: This is a secret weapon for a truly soft and tender cake. With its lower protein content compared to all-purpose flour, cake flour produces a finer, lighter crumb, mimicking the melt-in-your-mouth texture of a true cake donut.
• Baking Powder & Salt: Essential leavening agents that work with the buttermilk to give the cake its lift and light texture. Salt balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• Buttermilk: Don’t skip this! Buttermilk is key to making this cake incredibly moist and rich. Its acidity also reacts with the baking powder, contributing to the cake’s fluffy texture and adding a subtle tang that complements the sweetness beautifully. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make your own homemade buttermilk substitute.

For the Sweet Glaze

• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this forms the base of our smooth, sweet glaze. Sift it first if it appears lumpy to ensure a silky-smooth consistency without any gritty bits.
• Heavy Cream: Using heavy cream instead of milk makes the glaze wonderfully rich and luxurious. It gives the glaze a beautiful sheen and helps it set nicely on the cake.
• Food Coloring and Sprinkles: These are optional but highly recommended for that classic donut cake look! Food coloring allows you to customize your glaze for any occasion, while sprinkles add a festive touch and a bit of fun texture.

You’ll find the complete list of precise measurements and quantities for all ingredients in the detailed recipe card at the bottom of this page.

Delicious Variations to Try

While the classic Donut Cake is fantastic on its own, here are a few ideas to customize it and make it your own:

• Citrus Zest & Flavor: For a bright and zesty twist, add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice or orange juice to your glaze. You can also grate some citrus zest into the cake batter for an extra burst of flavor.
• Spice It Up: Enhance the “donut” flavor by adding ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg or cinnamon to the dry cake ingredients. This gives the cake a warm, spiced note often found in traditional cake donuts.
• Different Glaze Flavors:
  • Chocolate Glaze: Replace some of the powdered sugar with unsweetened cocoa powder, and adjust heavy cream as needed.
  • Maple Glaze: Add a tablespoon of maple syrup to the glaze for a delicious autumnal flavor.
  • Brown Butter Glaze: Brown the butter before adding it to your powdered sugar and cream for a nutty, caramelized flavor.
• Sprinkles Galore: Get creative with sprinkles! Use rainbow sprinkles for birthdays, red and green for Christmas, pastels for Easter, or themed sprinkles for any holiday or party. Chocolate sprinkles, nonpareils, or even crushed nuts can also add great texture and flavor.
• Mini Donut Cakes: Instead of a bundt pan, bake the batter in a muffin tin lined with paper cups for individual donut muffins, or in mini bundt pans for smaller, individual cakes. Adjust baking time accordingly.

Step By Step Guide to Baking Your Donut Cake

Baking this Donut Cake is a fun and rewarding process. Follow these detailed instructions to ensure a perfect result every time:

• Step 1: Preheat and Prepare. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even baking from the start.
• Step 2: Prepare Your Bundt Pan. This step is critical for a beautiful, intact cake. Generously coat your bundt pan with softened butter, making sure to get into all the intricate nooks and crannies. Then, dust it thoroughly with flour, tapping out any excess. For extra security, you can also use a non-stick baking spray that contains flour. Proper pan preparation prevents the cake from sticking and ensures it releases cleanly.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar. In a large mixing bowl, ideally the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed. Beat until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air, which is essential for a tender cake. Once creamed, reduce the mixer speed to low and add the room temperature eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until just combined. Don’t overmix.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry and Wet Ingredients. After the eggs are fully blended, stir in the vanilla extract. In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt. Now, you will alternate adding the dry flour mixture and the buttermilk to the butter and sugar mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, adding about a third of the flour mixture, mixing until just combined, then half of the buttermilk, mixing again, and so on. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl between additions to ensure everything is well incorporated. Mix only until no streaks of flour remain; overmixing can lead to a tough cake.

Step 5: Fill the Bundt Pan. Once your batter is perfectly combined, carefully pour it into the prepared bundt pan. Gently tap the pan a few times on the counter to release any air bubbles, ensuring an even bake and preventing large holes in your cake.

Step 6: Bake and Cool. Bake the cake for approximately 42-48 minutes. Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on it. The cake is done when a wooden toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs attached. Once baked, let the cake cool in the bundt pan on a wire rack for exactly 10 minutes. This crucial cooling time allows the cake to set before you attempt to remove it. After 10 minutes, carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate or platter, allowing it to cool completely before glazing.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze. While your cake is cooling, prepare your delicious glaze. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and heavy cream. Start with 4 tablespoons of heavy cream and gradually add more, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You want a glaze that is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon but still pourable. If you’re using food coloring to tint your glaze, mix it in now until the color is evenly distributed.

Step 8: Glaze and Serve. Once the cake is completely cool to the touch (this is very important to prevent the glaze from melting), pour the prepared glaze evenly over the cake. Let it drizzle down the sides for a visually appealing effect. Immediately top with your chosen sprinkles, as the glaze will begin to set quickly. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your spectacular **homemade Donut Cake**!

Storage and Freshness Tips

To keep your Donut Cake tasting fresh and delicious:

• Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This is generally preferred for cakes with glazes, as refrigeration can sometimes dry them out or cause the glaze to become tacky.
• Refrigeration: If you need to store it longer, or if your kitchen is particularly warm, you can place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure it’s well-covered to prevent it from absorbing any odors or drying out. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Pro Baking Tips for Success

Achieve the perfect Donut Cake every time with these expert tips:

• Let the Cake Cool Completely Before Glazing: This cannot be stressed enough! If the cake is even slightly warm, the glaze will melt and run off, resulting in a thin, messy coating instead of a beautiful, set finish. Patience here is key for a picture-perfect cake.
• Mastering Cake Removal: Removing a bundt cake can be tricky. After the initial 10-minute cooling period in the pan, place a sturdy serving plate or platter on top of the bundt pan. Then, carefully but confidently, flip the entire assembly upside down. Gently jiggle the pan side to side and lift it off. If it resists, give it another minute or two, then try again. A well-greased and floured pan is your best friend here.
• Don’t Substitute Buttermilk: For this recipe, buttermilk is a star ingredient. Its unique acidity and fat content contribute to the cake’s incredible moisture, tender crumb, and subtle tanginess that truly elevates the donut-like flavor. While you can make a homemade buttermilk substitute (milk + lemon juice or vinegar), avoid using regular milk directly as it won’t yield the same results.
• Thorough Pan Preparation is Essential: As mentioned in the instructions, don’t skimp on greasing and flouring your bundt pan. Pay extra attention to all the ridges and details of the pan, using a pastry brush to ensure every curve is coated. This is the best defense against a stuck cake.
• Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Once you start adding the dry ingredients, mix only until just combined. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a tough, dry cake instead of the desired soft and fluffy texture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature. This allows them to cream together more effectively, creating a smoother, more emulsified batter that bakes evenly and results in a lighter cake.

Can You Freeze This Donut Cake?

Yes, this glorious **giant Donut Cake** is wonderfully freezer-friendly! This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping desserts or saving leftovers for later. To freeze:

Allow the cake to cool completely after baking and glazing. Once cool, wrap the entire cake (or individual slices) tightly in plastic wrap, then an additional layer of aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn and keeps it fresh. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, transfer the frozen cake to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Once thawed, slice and enjoy this delightful treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

• What kind of pan do I need for a Donut Cake?

  This recipe specifically uses a standard 10-12 cup bundt pan. The bundt pan’s shape gives the cake its classic donut-like appearance, with the hole in the center.

• Can I use all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

  While you can, it’s not recommended for the best results. Cake flour is specifically designed to create a very tender and fine crumb, which is characteristic of a cake donut. All-purpose flour will result in a denser cake. If you must use all-purpose flour, you can try reducing the amount by 2 tablespoons per cup and replacing it with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch (sifted together).

• How do I prevent my bundt cake from sticking?

  Generously grease the pan with softened butter, ensuring every crevice is covered, then dust thoroughly with flour. You can also use a baking spray that contains flour. Take your time with this step, as it’s the most common reason for a cake sticking.

• What if my glaze is too thin or too thick?

  If your glaze is too thin, add more powdered sugar, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add more heavy cream, a teaspoon at a time, until it’s pourable but still coats a spoon.

More Donut Recipes to Explore

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St. Patricks Day Desserts

Rainbow Donuts

Oven Baked Desserts

Cake Mix Donuts

Easy Candy

Glazed Donut Popcorn

Don’t wait to bake this incredible **Cake Donut Recipe** for a truly fabulous and unforgettable dessert! Its delicious flavor, tender texture, and beautiful presentation will surely impress. We’d love to hear about your experience – please leave a comment and a star rating once you’ve given it a try. Happy baking!

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Donut Cake Recipe

5 from 1 vote

This delightful **Donut Cake** is an easy-to-make bundt cake that captures the soft, fluffy texture and sweet flavor of a classic donut, perfectly topped with a rich glaze and festive sprinkles. It’s a stunning dessert for any occasion!

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Allow to Cool: 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Servings 12

Cuisine American

Course Dessert

Calories 514

Author Carrie Barnard

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• ▢ 1 cup Butter softened at room temperature (2 sticks) – essential for a fluffy cake.
• ▢ 4 Large Eggs room temperature – for smooth batter and even texture.
• ▢ 2 cups Granulated Sugar
• ▢ 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract – use pure vanilla for the best flavor.
• ▢ 3 Cups Cake Flour – for an extra fluffy and tender crumb.
• ▢ 3 1/2 teaspoons Baking Powder
• ▢ 1 teaspoon Salt
• ▢ 1 1/2 cups Buttermilk – crucial for moisture and a delicate tang.

For the Glaze:

• ▢ 2 cups Powdered Sugar – sift if lumpy for a smooth glaze.
• ▢ 4-6 Tablespoons Heavy Cream – adds richness and a beautiful sheen.
• ▢ Food coloring and Sprinkles Optional – for festive decoration.

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
• Prepare a 10-12 cup bundt pan by generously coating it with softened butter and then dusting thoroughly with flour, making sure to reach all the nooks and crannies. This prevents sticking.
• In the large bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light, pale, and fluffy.
• Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the room temperature eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until fully blended into the batter.
• Once the eggs are incorporated, mix in the vanilla extract until just combined.
• In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
• Alternate adding the dry ingredients mixture and the buttermilk to the butter and sugar mixture. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
• Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into your well-prepared bundt pan.
• Bake for 42-48 minutes, or until a wooden toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Oven times may vary, so keep a close watch.
• Allow the cake to cool in the bundt pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, carefully flip the cake out of the pan onto a serving plate or platter and let it cool completely before proceeding.
• While the cake is cooling, prepare your delicious glaze.
• In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and heavy cream. Start with 4 tablespoons of heavy cream and add more gradually, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the glaze reaches your desired pourable consistency.
• If you are using food coloring to customize your glaze, mix it in thoroughly at this time until the desired color is achieved.
• Finally, pour the set glaze evenly over the completely cooled cake. Top with sprinkles if desired for a festive touch. Serve and enjoy your beautiful Donut Cake!

Recipe Notes

Cooling is Crucial: Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding the glaze; otherwise, the glaze will melt and not set properly.

Storage: Store this delightful donut cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week for extended freshness.

Easy Release: For effortless removal from the bundt pan, place a plate over the pan, invert it, and gently jiggle until the cake releases onto the plate or platter.

Buttermilk’s Importance: Do not substitute buttermilk with regular milk, as buttermilk is essential for the cake’s moist texture and unique flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a homemade substitute.

Nutrition Facts

Calories 514kcal, Carbohydrates 78g, Protein 7g, Fat 20g, Saturated Fat 12g, Polyunsaturated Fat 1g, Monounsaturated Fat 5g, Trans Fat 1g, Cholesterol 104mg, Sodium 494mg, Potassium 104mg, Fiber 1g, Sugar 55g, Vitamin A 676IU, Vitamin C 0.03mg, Calcium 125mg, Iron 1mg

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