Imagine the cozy, nostalgic flavor of your favorite classic donut, transformed into a tender, fluffy slice of cake—welcome to the world of Powdered Donut Cake! With its cloud of sweet, powdery sugar on top and that signature hint of nutmeg running through every bite, this recipe brings together the best parts of a morning donut and a homemade cake. It’s easy enough for a weeknight treat but special enough to wow your family and friends at brunch or any celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how it uses simple pantry staples and transforms them into something utterly magical. Every ingredient has a vital role—whether it’s the warmth of nutmeg, the richness of butter, or the all-important fluff of flour, you’ll find each one essential for the true Powdered Donut Cake experience.
- All-purpose flour: A versatile base that gives the cake its signature soft crumb and neutral background for the other flavors.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right and helps achieve a soft, tender texture.
- Baking powder: The secret to a sky-high, light cake—don’t skip it!
- Salt: Brings out all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Ground nutmeg: This spice is essential for giving you that classic donut taste and aroma—it makes all the difference.
- Whole milk: Ensures your cake is extra moist and adds a creamy richness to every bite.
- Unsalted butter (melted and cooled): Brings depth, richness, and an irresistible, buttery finish—using unsalted lets you control the overall flavor.
- Large eggs: They give structure and help bind the batter for that lovely cake texture.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a soft, aromatic note that perfectly ties together the donut inspiration.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): That iconic finishing touch—transforming this humble cake into a true Powdered Donut Cake.
How to Make Powdered Donut Cake
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Preheat
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C)—baking is all about precision, so make sure it’s hot before your cake goes in. While it heats, generously grease and flour a Bundt pan or a 9-inch round cake pan; this step helps your Powdered Donut Cake release seamlessly and ensures those lovely edges.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg. The nutmeg here is more than just a spice—it’s the heart of the donut flavor, so don’t be shy! Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly helps your cake bake up uniformly.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, melted (and cooled!) butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until you’ve got a smooth, creamy mixture. This combo brings the moisture and richness that make every slice of this Powdered Donut Cake extra delicious.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, then stir gently until just combined. This is your chance to avoid overmixing—stop stirring as soon as you don’t see streaks of flour. This keeps your cake soft, light, and donut-like!
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing out the top for an even bake. Pop it in the oven and set your timer for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—or with just a few crumbs clinging to it.
Step 6: Cool and Finish
Let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then gently flip it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Only when it’s totally cool should you dust with that cloud of powdered sugar—the final touch that turns your cake into a Powdered Donut Cake masterpiece!
How to Serve Powdered Donut Cake
Garnishes
This cake shines with a classic dusting of powdered sugar, but you can zhuzh it up with extra touches—a few curls of lemon zest, a sprinkle of toasted chopped nuts, or even a light drizzle of vanilla glaze take it to the next level. The beauty of Powdered Donut Cake is its canvas: dress it up or keep it simple!
Side Dishes
Pair Powdered Donut Cake with a robust cup of coffee or a frothy cappuccino for a true donut-shop vibe at home. For brunch, a fruit salad bursting with berries or some salty bacon on the side provides a perfect contrast to the cake’s sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this cake into individual treats by slicing and stacking with layers of whipped cream and fresh berries, or cut into fingers for a coffee-dunking delight. For gatherings, serve cut slices on a cake pedestal dusted with extra powdered sugar for a snowy, showy look that guests won’t forget.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Powdered Donut Cake at its best by covering leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The powdered sugar may absorb over time, but you can always freshen the look with another gentle dusting before serving.
Freezing
If you want to make the cake ahead, let it cool completely, then wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before freezing (hold off on the powdered sugar until ready to serve). Thaw overnight at room temp, then dust generously for that just-baked magic.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven feel, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10 seconds, or the whole cake (covered loosely in foil) in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes. Add a new layer of powdered sugar after reheating for the perfect finish.
FAQs
Can I make Powdered Donut Cake without a Bundt pan?
Absolutely! A 9-inch round cake pan works just as well—just make sure you grease and flour it well to prevent sticking. The cake will have the same flavor and tender crumb, minus the Bundt shape.
What’s the secret to that classic donut flavor?
The magic comes from a combination of nutmeg, vanilla, and the buttery, soft crumb. If you want even more donut essence, add a pinch more nutmeg as suggested, or brush the warm cake with extra melted butter before the final dusting of powdered sugar.
Can I use low-fat milk or a milk alternative?
Yes, feel free to substitute with your preferred milk or milk alternative. While whole milk adds extra richness, the cake will still be soft and delicious with most options—just avoid anything unsweetened that’s overly thin for best results.
How should I apply the powdered sugar for that perfect finish?
Once the cake is fully cooled, use a fine sieve or mesh strainer to gently shower the cake with powdered sugar. For a thick, unmistakable layer, dust it once, let it sit a minute, then go back for a second dusting.
Is Powdered Donut Cake suitable for breakfast?
Absolutely—this cake is a twist on the beloved breakfast treat! Serve it with coffee or tea for a leisurely start to the day, or slice it up for a decadent brunch centerpiece that doubles as dessert.
Final Thoughts
Treat yourself and your loved ones to the nostalgic goodness of Powdered Donut Cake. With its easy prep and utterly irresistible flavor, it’s bound to become the kind of recipe you turn to again and again—for celebrations or just cozy mornings at home. Pour the coffee, pass the plates, and let this sweet classic steal the show!
Print
Powdered Donut Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of a classic powdered donut in the form of a moist and tender cake. This Powdered Donut Cake is a simple yet irresistible treat that is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Dusting:
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the pan.
- Mix dry ingredients: Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg in a bowl.
- Mix wet ingredients: Whisk milk, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine: Mix wet and dry ingredients until just combined.
- Bake: Pour batter into pan and bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Cool and dust: Cool cake, then dust generously with powdered sugar.
Notes
- Add more nutmeg for a stronger powdered donut flavor.
- For extra sweetness, brush warm cake with melted butter before dusting with powdered sugar.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
