Name: Deliciously Dreamy Apple Cider Cake to Savor This Fall
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 3.5 cups all-purpose flour (provides the perfect structure for a tender crumb.); 2.5 teaspoons baking powder (ensures the cake rises beautifully.); 1.25 teaspoons salt (balances sweetness and enhances flavors.); 2 teaspoons cinnamon (adds warm, inviting spice.); 1 teaspoon nutmeg (complements other spices.); 20 tablespoons unsalted butter (at room temperature for easier creaming.); 1.5 cups brown sugar (lends moisture and deep caramel notes.); 0.5 cups granulated sugar (balances richness of brown sugar.); 4 large eggs (at room temperature.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (adds a sweet aroma.); 1 cup apple cider (infuses the cake with fruity essence.); 2 cups apple cider (reduces to create a thick glaze.); 2 tablespoons salted butter (adds richness to the coating.); 0.33 cups granulated sugar (creates a sweet crust.); 2 tablespoons demerara or turbinado sugar (adds crunch to the topping.); 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon (spices up the coating.)

As I stood by the stove, the warm scent of spices filled the air, whisking me away to cozy autumn days. This beloved Apple Cider Cake is more than just a recipe; it’s a delightful slice of nostalgia that transforms any gathering into a heartwarming celebration. With its tender crumb and a luscious cider coating that’s both moist and flavorful, this cake is a wonderful option for those craving a homemade touch after too many fast-food meals. Not only is it quick to prepare with just 30 minutes of active time, but it also doubles as a stunning centerpiece that will impress friends and family alike. Ready to discover how to elevate your baking game with this easy fall favorite? Let’s dive in!

Why is this cake a must-try?

Nostalgic flavors: Bursting with the warm taste of apple cider and spices, it captures the essence of fall in every bite.
Easy to make: With just 30 minutes of prep, this recipe is perfect for busy bakers who crave homemade goodness.
Stunning presentation: The beautiful bundt shape makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering.
Versatile treat: Enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon snack—this cake fits any occasion!
Crowd-pleaser: Your friends and family will rave about the rich, sweet flavors, making it ideal for entertaining or cozy family dinners.

Apple Cider Cake Ingredients

• Get ready to bake this delightful Apple Cider Cake with these essential ingredients!

For the Cake

All purpose flour – 3 ½ cups; provides the perfect structure for a tender crumb.
Baking powder – 2 ½ teaspoons; ensures the cake rises beautifully.
Salt – 1 ¼ teaspoons; balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
Cinnamon – 2 teaspoons; adds that warm, inviting spice we love in fall treats.
Nutmeg – 1 teaspoon; complements the other spices with its earthy note.
Unsalted butter – 2 ½ sticks (20 tablespoons, 1 ¼ cups); at room temperature for easier creaming.
Brown sugar – 1 ½ cups; lends moisture and deep caramel notes.
Granulated sugar – ½ cup; balances the richness of brown sugar.
Eggs – 4 (at room temperature); help bind and enrich the cake.
Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons; adds a sweet aroma to enhance flavor.
Apple cider – 1 cup; infuses the cake with a delightful fruity essence.

For the Coating

Apple cider – 2 cups; reduces to create a thick, sweet glaze.
Salted butter – 2 tablespoons; adds richness to the cider coating.
Granulated sugar – ⅓ cup; creates a sweet crust on the cake.
Demerara or turbinado sugar – 2 tablespoons; adds a lovely crunch to the topping.
Cinnamon – 1 ½ teaspoons; spice up the coating for extra flavor.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, generously grease a 12-cup bundt pan with non-stick spray, like Baker’s Joy, to ensure easy removal after baking. The spray should create a light coating, including flour, guaranteeing the beautiful bundt shape holds up when it’s time to invert the cake.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure the ingredients are blended well, as this will help the Apple Cider Cake rise evenly and give it that perfect warm spice flavor. Set the bowl aside so you can focus on the wet ingredients next.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In the bowl of your stand mixer, beat the room temperature unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar on medium speed. Continue mixing for about 3-5 minutes, until the mixture is lighter in color and fluffy in texture. This step helps to create a tender crumb in your cake, setting a solid foundation for the rest of the recipe.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the four eggs, one at a time, to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is thoroughly incorporated. Finally, add the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined, enhancing the flavors of your Apple Cider Cake.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the flour mixture in three separate additions, keeping your mixer on low speed. Once this is almost mixed in, slowly pour in the cup of apple cider while the mixer is running. This allows the batter to come together beautifully. Make sure to scrape down the bowl to fully incorporate all ingredients into a smooth batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Carefully scrape the batter into your prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes. The Apple Cider Cake is ready when the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating a perfectly baked cake.

Step 7: Cool the Cake
After baking, remove the bundt pan from the oven and let the cake cool for about 10 minutes. This cooling phase allows the cake to firm up slightly, making it easier to invert. Once the time is up, gently turn the bundt pan upside down onto a plate to release the cake and let it cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Cider Coating
In a small saucepan, pour in 2 cups of apple cider and place it over high heat. Bring the cider to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low boil. Allow it to cook for about 30 minutes or until it thickens to about ⅓ cup. Stir in the salted butter until it melts, creating a rich glaze for your Apple Cider Cake.

Step 9: Coat the Cake
In a separate bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, demerara or turbinado sugar, and cinnamon for the coating. While the cake is still warm, brush the thickened apple cider mixture generously all over the outside of the cake. Sprinkle the sugar mixture on top, pressing gently to adhere it, ensuring your cake has that sweet and spiced crust.

What to Serve with Apple Cider Cake

There’s something magical about elevating a slice of warm, spiced cake into an unforgettable meal.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of rich vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the warm, spiced cake, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
Maple Pecan Salad: Featuring crisp greens and crunchy pecans tossed in a maple dressing, this salad brings a refreshing balance to the cake’s sweetness.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice adds an indulgent touch, enhancing the cake's warm spices and making every bite a treat.
Spiced Apple Cider: Enjoy a cozy mug of warm spiced apple cider alongside the cake for a double dose of comforting fall flavors. This pairing truly embraces the essence of autumn.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, adds a creamy richness to your dessert table, contrasting beautifully with the cake’s sweetness.
Candied Ginger Cookies: These subtly spicy cookies are perfect for a textural and flavor contrast, tying beautifully into the spice profile of the Apple Cider Cake.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Warm up your afternoon tea time with this iconic drink that complements the cake’s flavors, making for a cozy rendezvous.
Chai Tea: A cup of hearty chai tea, with its blend of spices, amplifies the cake's flavors and warms the soul as you enjoy a slice.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and zesty fruit salad loaded with berries and citrus brings a burst of freshness that cleanses the palate after each sweet bite.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and delicious while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Fridge: For longer freshness, you can refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s covered tightly to prevent it from drying out and to protect from other odors.

Freezer: Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating: To bring back that fresh-baked feel, gently warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This accentuates the apple cider flavor and makes the cake irresistibly delightful!

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cider Cake preparations are a fantastic time-saver for busy home cooks! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance: simply mix the wet and dry ingredients as directed, then store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before pouring it into the bundt pan. For an even easier option, the cake itself can be baked and stored for up to 3 days at room temperature, tightly wrapped to maintain its moisture. Just brush on the cider coating and sprinkle the sugar mixture right before serving for a fresh, delightful finish. With these make-ahead options, you'll enjoy delicious homemade cake with minimal fuss!

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cake

Room Temperature Eggs: Ensuring your eggs are at room temperature helps them incorporate better, creating a fluffier cake.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense Apple Cider Cake.
Cool in Pan: Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes in the bundt pan before inverting. This helps prevent breakage and keeps your cake intact.
Thickened Cider Coating: Keep an eye on the cider as it reduces; stirring occasionally ensures it doesn't burn. A thick coating adds a delicious, sticky sweetness.
Use Quality Cider: For the best flavor, opt for a high-quality apple cider. It amplifies the rich apple flavor in your cake and elevates the overall taste.

Apple Cider Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these creative twists and adapt this recipe to your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it's suitable for baking to maintain the cake's structure.
For those who are gluten intolerant, this makes the recipe accessible without sacrificing flavor.
Vegan: Replace butter with coconut oil and eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water. This makes a deliciously moist vegan version.
The key is in using quality vanilla extract to maintain that wonderful aroma.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or allspice to intensify those warm flavors. A little extra spice goes a long way in elevating this cake!
These subtle changes can turn your cake into a cozy autumn favorite!
Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and richness. Nuts can add an enjoyable crunch to the cake.
A sprinkle on top before baking can also enhance both taste and presentation.
Caramel Drizzle: After coating the cake, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for a decadent finish. The sweet, creamy notes contrast beautifully with the cider.
Your guests will be asking for this luscious twist on the classic!
Citrus Zing: Mix in the zest of an orange or lemon for a refreshing citrus kick. This brightens the flavors without overwhelming the apple essence.
It’s an unexpected delight that adds depth to the cake!
Chai Spice: Substitute cinnamon with chai spice blend to introduce a warm, aromatic flavor. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and the taste is simply exquisite.
Perfect for those who enjoy a little adventure in their baking!
Apple Variants: Use different types of apples, like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, for a unique sweetness or tartness. Each apple brings its character to the cake.
Experimenting with apple varieties adds a fun twist while keeping the classic flavor.

These variations can be a great way to make your Apple Cider Cake even more delightful. Plus, why not pair it with your favorite cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy treat? For more sweet inspiration, don’t forget to check out our classic Cinnamon Roll Recipe or this mouthwatering Pumpkin Spice Bread.

Apple Cider Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of apples are best for making apple cider?
Absolutely! When making apple cider, a blend of sweet and tart apples will provide the best flavor. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, and Granny Smith are excellent choices. Mixing different types ensures a delightful balance that translates to your Apple Cider Cake, enhancing its rich, fruity essence.

How should I store the Apple Cider Cake to keep it fresh?
For ideal freshness, keep your Apple Cider Cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its life, you can refrigerate it, sealed tightly, for up to 5 days. This helps retain moisture and flavor. Just remember that refrigeration might slightly alter the texture, so enjoy it sooner for the best experience!

Can I freeze my Apple Cider Cake? How do I do it?
Certainly! Freezing is a great way to keep your Apple Cider Cake for longer. First, slice the cake into individual pieces and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method keeps them fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the slices in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

What should I do if my cake is dense or doesn't rise properly?
Very! If your Apple Cider Cake turns out dense, here are a few troubleshooting tips: Ensure your baking powder is fresh—this should be checked regularly as it loses potency over time. Also, avoid overmixing the batter once you add the dry ingredients, as this can develop gluten and make the cake heavy. Lastly, make sure to use room temperature ingredients, particularly the eggs and butter, to create a fluffy texture.

Is this cake suitable for those with allergies?
The Apple Cider Cake contains gluten from the all-purpose flour and dairy from the butter. If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using gluten-free flour blends, which are widely available and often work well in baking. For a dairy-free version, substitute the unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative and use a dairy-free milk in place of the cider. Always check labels for potential allergens to ensure safety!