As the leaves begin to turn and the air fills with a crispness that hints at the season's change, I can’t help but dive into my kitchen, eager to whip up an Apple Cider Cake that captures all those cozy autumn vibes. This delightful dessert not only brings a sweet warmth to chilly evenings, but it also incorporates apple cider in a way that elevates its flavor and texture like no other. With a quick prep time and a beautiful bundt presentation, it's the perfect recipe for sharing with friends or family—though you may find yourself wanting to keep it all to yourself because it’s just that good! Have you ever experienced that blissful moment when your home fills with the aroma of cinnamon and baked apples? Let’s dive deeper into this comforting treat and get ready to impress your taste buds!
Why is this cake a must-try?
Unmatched Flavor: Apple cider elevates this cake, infusing it with a warm, comforting taste that’s pure autumn bliss.
Effortless Prep: With only a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you'll find this recipe a breeze.
Incredible Aroma: Your kitchen will smell divine as it bakes, drawing everyone in like a warm hug.
Sharing Friendly: Perfectly sized for gatherings, this cake is sure to impress your family, friends, or even that next potluck.
Versatile Delight: Serve it plain or elevate it with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgence. Let your creativity shine by trying it with different spices or toppings.
Apple Cider Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- All-purpose flour – 3 ½ cups, the backbone of this cake providing a lovely structure and texture.
- Baking powder – 2 ½ teaspoons, ensuring your cake rises beautifully for that perfect bundt shape.
- Salt – 1 ¼ teaspoons, a must to enhance the sweetness of the cake and balance flavors.
- Cinnamon – 2 teaspoons, adding that warm, spiced note synonymous with fall.
- Nutmeg – 1 teaspoon, for an extra layer of rich, warm flavor.
- Unsalted butter – 2 ½ sticks (20 tablespoons, 1 ¼ cups), at room temperature to create a light and fluffy batter.
- Brown sugar – 1 ½ cups, introducing moisture and a deep caramel sweetness.
- Granulated sugar – ½ cup, balancing the sweetness and adding a crispy texture to the crust.
- Eggs – 4, at room temperature, helping to create a rich and moist cake.
- Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons, for that smooth, aromatic flavor that rounds out the sweetness.
- Apple cider – 1 cup, the star ingredient that infuses a delightful fruity taste into the cake.
For Coating
- Apple cider – 2 cups, for coating that provides a sweet glaze over the warm cake.
- Salted butter – 2 tablespoons, adding richness and helping the sugar adhere.
- Granulated sugar – ⅓ cup, creating a delightful sugary crust.
- Demerara or turbinado sugar – 2 tablespoons, giving a lovely crunch and sparkle to the exterior.
- Cinnamon – 1 ½ teaspoons, to continue that cozy fall flavor right to the very last bite.
Embrace the joy of baking with this Apple Cider Cake—a treat that truly resonates with the heart of autumn!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 12-cup bundt pan generously with Baker’s Joy or a similar non-stick spray that contains flour, ensuring an easy release for your glorious Apple Cider Cake once baked. Set the pan aside while you mix your dry ingredients.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 ¼ teaspoons of salt, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of nutmeg. This fragrant blend creates the flavorful foundation for your cake. Once well combined, set the bowl aside to focus on the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Cream the Butters and Sugars
In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together 2 ½ sticks of room-temperature unsalted butter, 1 ½ cups of brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar on medium speed. Continue mixing for about 3 to 5 minutes, until the mixture is lighter in color and fluffy, creating a lovely base for your Apple Cider Cake.
Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add 4 room-temperature eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well integrated. Then, mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, infusing extra warmth and depth into your cake batter.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients Gradually
With your mixer on low speed, gradually add your prepared dry flour mixture in three additions. Mix until just combined after each addition, allowing for a smooth transition between the dry and wet ingredients. This method ensures a tender crumb in your Apple Cider Cake.
Step 6: Add the Cider
While the mixer is running on the lowest speed, slowly pour in 1 cup of apple cider until it's fully incorporated. Scrape down the bowl to make sure no dry ingredients are left clinging to the sides, ensuring a uniform batter. The cider will add a lovely sweetness and moisture to your cake.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the rich batter into your prepared bundt pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 50 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This step fills your kitchen with the delightful aroma of fall!
Step 8: Cool and Invert
Once baked, allow the Apple Cider Cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After cooling, gently invert the cake onto a plate, letting it release gracefully. This is the moment to marvel at your beautiful cake before you add the finishing touches!
Step 9: Prepare the Cider Glaze
While the cake bakes, bring 2 cups of apple cider to a boil in a small saucepan over high heat. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to about ⅓ cup—this should take roughly 30 minutes. Stir in 2 tablespoons of salted butter until it melts, creating a glossy glaze.
Step 10: Coat with Cider Mixture and Sugar
In a bowl, mix together ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of demerara sugar, and 1 ½ teaspoons of cinnamon for a tantalizing sugar coating. While the cake is still warm, brush the cider mixture all over the outside. Then sprinkle the sugar mix generously on top, pressing it onto the sides for a crispy, sweet finish.
What to Serve with Apple Cider Cake
As you savor each bite of your freshly baked masterpiece, consider these delightful pairings to create a heartwarming meal.
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Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess perfectly complements the warm spices of the cake, enhancing its cozy flavors with each spoonful.
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Spiced Caramel Sauce: Drizzling this homemade sauce over each slice adds a rich, buttery layer that elevates the cake to decadent heights.
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Warm Apple Compote: With hints of cinnamon and nutmeg, the compote beautifully ties in the apple flavor, making each bite even more comforting and delightful.
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Candied Pecans: Their crunchy texture and sweetness provide a lovely contrast to the moistness of the cake, adding a satisfying crunch.
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Herbal Tea: A steaming cup of chai or mint tea not only relaxes but also complements the warm spices, creating a perfect cozy setting.
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Caramelized Pears: This fragrant topping enhances the apple essence, adding an elegant twist to your serving experience that's sure to impress.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: Sip on this seasonal favorite as you enjoy your cake; the aromatic pairing brings out the fall vibes in every sense.
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Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: For a delightful brunch option, serve warm, fluffy donuts alongside your cake. The shared spice profile creates harmony on the plate.
Apple Cider Cake Variations
Feel free to make this delightful cake your own by exploring delicious twists and tasty substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend for a similar texture without gluten.
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Low-Sugar: Swap out brown sugar and granulated sugar for a low-calorie sweetener, making it a lighter option for those watching their sugar intake.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger to the batter for a delightful, warming heat that beautifully complements the sweetness.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a lovely crunchy texture and nutty flavor contrast against the soft cake.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine instead of butter, along with almond milk or oat milk in place of the apple cider for a vegan-friendly version.
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Fruit Fusion: Incorporate 1 cup of diced apples or pears for an added fruity layer inside the cake, enhancing the autumn flavors even more.
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Boozy Bliss: Infuse the cider with a splash of bourbon or rum in the glaze for an adult twist that adds depth to the cake's flavor profile.
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Chocolate Twist: Mix in ½ cup of cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolatey take on the classic apple cider cake that satisfies sweet tooth cravings.
With all these variations, you can easily tailor your Apple Cider Cake to suit any taste or dietary preference! Explore and delight in the new flavors as you make this recipe uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cake
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature; this helps create a smoother batter and a fluffier cake.
Mix Gradually: When adding the flour mixture, do it in three additions and mix on low speed. This prevents overmixing, which can lead to a dense cake.
Check with a Toothpick: Insert a toothpick into the center after 40 minutes; if it comes out clean, your Apple Cider Cake is done. Ovens can vary!
Cool Before Inverting: Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan. This helps it release easily without breaking.
Glaze While Warm: Brush the cider glaze over the warm cake for it to soak in, ensuring each bite is flavorful and moist.
How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the Apple Cider Cake covered with a cake dome or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you want to extend its shelf life, store the cake in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy it warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. For a crispier exterior, warm slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Apple Cider Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time and enjoy a homemade treat! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can also make the cider glaze and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you're ready to bake, pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and proceed with baking as instructed. To maintain the cake's tenderness, avoid overmixing and ensure it cools completely before serving. This way, you’ll have a wonderfully fragrant dessert ready with minimal effort, just in time for your family gatherings!
Apple Cider Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best apples for the apple cider?
Absolutely! The best apples for cider are usually a mix of sweet and tart varieties. For a well-balanced flavor, I recommend using a combination of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples. Look for apples that are firm, with a vibrant color and no visible bruises or dark spots.
How should I store leftovers of the Apple Cider Cake?
Very! To keep your Apple Cider Cake fresh, store it at room temperature covered with a cake dome or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid any dryness.
Can I freeze the Apple Cider Cake? If so, how?
Absolutely! You can freeze the Apple Cider Cake for up to 3 months. First, let the cake cool completely and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight container. To thaw, simply move it to the refrigerator the night before you want to enjoy it.
What should I do if my Apple Cider Cake turns out dense?
Oh no! If your cake is dense, it might be due to overmixing. Make sure to mix your batter only until the dry ingredients are just incorporated. Additionally, room temperature ingredients help create a lighter texture, so make sure your butter and eggs are not cold.
Is this Apple Cider Cake safe for pets?
Definitely! This cake contains ingredients commonly safe for pets, like flour and cinnamon in small amounts, but avoid sharing any with frosting or sugar coatings. Due to the sugar content, it’s best to keep this cake for human enjoyment.
What if I don’t have apple cider? Can I use something else?
Very! If you can’t find apple cider, you can substitute it with equal amounts of unsweetened apple juice or even a mixture of water and a splash of apple vinegar for a tangy twist. Keep in mind that the flavor will differ slightly, but it can still make a delightful cake!
Irresistible Apple Cider Cake That Scream Fall Flavors
Equipment
- 12-cup Bundt pan
- mixing bowl
- stand mixer
- saucepan
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3.5 cups all-purpose flour providing structure and texture
- 2.5 teaspoons baking powder ensuring cake rises beautifully
- 1.25 teaspoons salt enhances sweetness and balance
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon adding warm spiced note
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg for rich, warm flavor
- 2.5 sticks unsalted butter at room temperature
- 1.5 cups brown sugar introducing moisture and sweetness
- 0.5 cups granulated sugar balancing sweetness
- 4 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract smooth aromatic flavor
- 1 cup apple cider infusing fruity taste
For Coating
- 2 cups apple cider for sweet glaze
- 2 tablespoons salted butter adds richness
- 0.33 cups granulated sugar creates sugary crust
- 2 tablespoons demerara or turbinado sugar for a lovely crunch
- 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon cozy fall flavor
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a bundt pan with Baker’s Joy.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Beat unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well, then mix in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Slowly pour in apple cider on low speed until incorporated.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 40-50 minutes.
- Allow to cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto a plate.
- Boil apple cider for the glaze until thickened, then mix in butter.
- Coat the warm cake with the cider mist and sprinkle with sugar mixture.
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