Apple Cider Cake Recipe

There’s something utterly magical about autumn captured in a dessert, and the Apple Cider Cake does exactly that with every bite. This moist, warmly spiced cake is soaked in a luscious apple cider glaze that adds just the right amount of sweetness and tang, making it a cozy favorite for chilly days. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or craving a comforting treat, this Apple Cider Cake delivers rich flavors and tender crumb, perfectly embodying the essence of fall in one unforgettable cake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients for this Apple Cider Cake are refreshingly straightforward but play essential roles in crafting its unique flavor and texture. From the fragrant spices to the buttery richness and naturally sweet apple cider, each ingredient elevates the cake’s appeal in its own delightful way.

• All-purpose flour: The backbone that provides structure and tenderness to the cake.
• Baking powder: Gives the cake its light, airy rise.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness and spices in the cake.
• Cinnamon: Adds warm, aromatic spice essential to the cake’s fall vibe.
• Nutmeg: Provides a subtle nutty, earthy undertone that complements the cinnamon.
• Unsalted butter: Creates richness and moisture while helping the cake remain tender.
• Brown sugar: Offers deep, caramel-like sweetness and helps keep the cake moist.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and aids in creating a tender crumb.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and help with the cake’s structure and softness.
• Vanilla extract: A subtle flavor enhancer that lifts all other tastes beautifully.
• Apple cider: The star ingredient providing bright fruity flavor and moisture both in the batter and the glaze.
• Salted butter (for coating): Adds a creamy richness to the cider reduction glaze.
• Demerara or turbinado sugar: Gives a crunchy, caramelized finish to the glazed cake.

How to Make Apple Cider Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees and greasing a 12-cup bundt pan generously with a non-stick spray that has flour. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This spice mixture is what lends the Apple Cider Cake its beautifully fragrant base.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer, beat the softened butter with the brown and granulated sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This important step, which takes around 3 to 5 minutes, incorporates air and ensures the cake will be perfectly tender and moist.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each to keep the batter smooth and emulsified. Finish by adding the vanilla extract, which brings together all the flavors in harmony.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Apple Cider

Add the flour mixture in three increments, mixing gently on low speed to avoid overworking the batter. Then, slowly pour in the apple cider while mixing at the lowest speed. The cider adds moisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Transfer the batter to your prepared bundt pan and bake for 40-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the edges turn a golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a plate.

Step 6: Make the Apple Cider Glaze

While the cake is baking, pour 2 cups of cider into a small saucepan and bring it to a boil over high heat. Reduce to a low boil and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about ⅓ cup. Stir in the butter until melted for an irresistibly rich glaze.

Step 7: Apply the Coating

Mix the granulated and demerara sugars with cinnamon in a bowl. Brush the warm cider glaze all over the cake, then sprinkle with the sugar mixture and gently press some sugar onto the sides with your palm for a crunchy, sweet crust. Serve warm or at room temperature to savor every flavorful bite.

How to Serve Apple Cider Cake

Garnishes

To elevate each slice of Apple Cider Cake, add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts on top provide both an elegant look and added texture.

Side Dishes

Pair the cake with a hot cup of chai tea or apple cider for a cozy, autumn-inspired snack. It’s also terrific alongside a simple green salad dressed lightly for a more balanced brunch or dessert spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, drizzle extra cider glaze over each serving and dust with powdered sugar. Serving mini portions on decorative plates with cinnamon sticks or fresh herbs like rosemary adds visual flair sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Apple Cider Cake tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature to keep it moist and flavorful for several days. It tastes fantastic even after a day or two as the flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Simply wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

To warm up individual slices, place them in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. The warmth revives the luscious apple cider glaze and soft cake texture, making every bite feel freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider in the Apple Cider Cake?

Yes, you can substitute apple juice, but keep in mind that fresh apple cider usually has a richer, more robust apple flavor and less sweetness, which contributes uniquely to the cake’s character.

Is bundt pan necessary for baking this cake?

While a bundt pan gives the Apple Cider Cake its classic shape and helps with even baking, you can also use a 9×13-inch pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly and check doneness with a toothpick.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

You can experiment with gluten-free all-purpose flour blends, but texture and rise might differ. Adding an extra teaspoon of baking powder can help offset the difference, but results may vary.

How long does the apple cider glaze keep?

The cider glaze is best used fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Warm slightly before brushing on the cake again for the best texture.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the batter?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans and dried cranberries or raisins can be folded into the batter for extra texture and bursts of flavor that pair wonderfully with the warm spices.

Final Thoughts

The comforting flavors and tender crumb of this Apple Cider Cake make it a must-try whenever you crave a sweet slice of autumn magic. Its cozy spices, buttery glaze, and irresistible moistness come together in a way that feels like a warm hug from your oven. I can’t wait for you to bake it, share it, and fall in love with every delicious bite!

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