Name: Irresistibly Moist Apple Cider Cake for Cozy Evenings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for a light and fluffy texture); 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder (for that perfect rise); 1 ¼ teaspoons salt (to enhance the flavors); 2 teaspoons cinnamon (adds warm, spicy notes); 1 teaspoon nutmeg (brings a delightful depth of flavor); 2 ½ sticks unsalted butter (at room temperature, for rich moisture); 1 ½ cups brown sugar (infuses warmth and caramel undertones); ½ cup granulated sugar (offers just the right sweetness); 4 whole eggs (at room temperature for an airy batter); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (to elevate the flavor profile); 1 cup apple cider (the star ingredient, adding flavor and moisture); 2 cups apple cider (reduced for a luscious glaze); 2 tablespoons salted butter (for added richness when coating); ⅓ cup granulated sugar (for a delightful crunch); 2 tablespoons demerara or turbinado sugar (offers a festive twist to dusting); 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon (to harmonize the flavors in the coating)

As the warm aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg began to fill my kitchen, I could sense that something magical was about to emerge from the oven. This Apple Cider Cake is more than just a delightful dessert; it's a slice of autumn that brings cozy vibes and sweet nostalgia with every bite. With its quick prep time and impressive presentation, this crowd-pleaser ensures you’ll be the star of any gathering. Plus, the buttery richness paired with that hint of apple cider makes it an indulgent treat without the fuss of complicated techniques. Why settle for fast food when you can have a homemade treasure? Ready to discover how to make this delicious cake? Let’s dive in!

What makes this Apple Cider Cake special?

Irresistible flavor profile: The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg blend beautifully with the sweetness of apple cider, creating a cake that’s bursting with autumnal goodness.
Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can impress their friends with this stunning treat.
Mouthwatering texture: Each bite is a delightful combination of moist cake with a slightly crunchy sugar coating that enhances the experience.
Perfect for sharing: Whether it’s a seasonal gathering or a cozy night in, this cake is guaranteed to please a crowd. Make it your centerpiece for any event, and let the compliments roll in!
Versatile enjoyment: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it with your morning coffee—it's all about those cozy vibes! For more seasonal delights, check out this Cozy Fall Recipes.

Apple Cider Cake Ingredients

• Discover everything you need for this delightful treat!

For the Cake

All-purpose flour – 3 ½ cups for a light and fluffy texture.
Baking powder – 2 ½ teaspoons for that perfect rise.
Salt – 1 ¼ teaspoons to enhance the flavors.
Cinnamon – 2 teaspoons adds warm, spicy notes.
Nutmeg – 1 teaspoon brings a delightful depth of flavor.
Unsalted butter – 2 ½ sticks, at room temperature, for rich moisture.
Brown sugar – 1 ½ cups infuses warmth and caramel undertones.
Granulated sugar – ½ cup offers just the right sweetness.
Eggs – 4, at room temperature for an airy batter.
Vanilla extract – 2 teaspoons to elevate the flavor profile.
Apple cider – 1 cup is the star ingredient, adding flavor and moisture.

For Coating

Apple cider – 2 cups, reduced for a luscious glaze.
Salted butter – 2 Tablespoons for added richness when coating.
Granulated sugar – ⅓ cup for a delightful crunch.
Demerara or turbinado sugar – 2 Tablespoons offers a festive twist to dusting.
Cinnamon – 1 ½ teaspoons to harmonize the flavors in the coating.

Get ready to enjoy the magic of this Apple Cider Cake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Cake

Step 1: Prepare the oven and bundt pan
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While the oven warms up, generously grease a 12-cup bundt pan using Baker’s Joy or a non-stick spray that contains flour. This step is crucial to ensure your Apple Cider Cake releases effortlessly once baked, so be thorough in your coating.

Step 2: Mix the 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. Setting aside this dry mixture allows the flavors to meld together, enhancing the taste of your cake.

Step 3: Cream the sugars and butter
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 3-5 minutes until the mixture appears lighter in color and fluffy. This creaming process will provide your Apple Cider Cake with a rich and moist texture.

Step 4: Incorporate the eggs and vanilla
Add 4 room-temperature eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, ensuring to beat well and scrape down the bowl after each addition. Next, blend in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract. This is the moment when the batter will transform into a luscious base full of flavor and warmth.

Step 5: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture to your batter in three separate additions, mixing on low speed until just combined. With the mixer still running on low, slowly pour in 1 cup of apple cider, allowing the flavors to mix seamlessly. Don’t forget to scrape the bowl well to make sure every element is incorporated into your Apple Cider Cake batter.

Step 6: Bake the cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Place in the oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a plate.

Step 7: Prepare the cider glaze
While your cake is baking, pour 2 cups of apple cider into a small saucepan and heat over high. Bring the cider to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to roughly ⅓ cup. Stir in 2 tablespoons of salted butter until it melts, creating a delicious glaze.

Step 8: Coat the cake
In a separate bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup of granulated sugar and 1 ½ teaspoons of cinnamon for the coating. Once the Apple Cider Cake is still warm, brush the cider mixture generously over the cake. Sprinkle the sugar mixture on top and press some onto the sides for a sweet, crunchy finish.

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for a smooth batter; this helps create that desired light and fluffy texture.
Don’t Overmix: Mix your batter just until combined when adding the flour and cider. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the moist Apple Cider Cake you’re aiming for.
Use a Toothpick Test: To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs, but not wet batter.
Cool Before Coating: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes in the pan before inverting. This helps prevent the cake from breaking apart and ensures even coating.
Adjust Glaze Consistency: If the apple cider glaze is too runny, simmer a little longer. You want it thick enough to stick but not overly sticky, creating a delightful finish.

Apple Cider Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine and tailor this delightful Apple Cider Cake to your taste buds!

Vegan: Substitute eggs with unsweetened applesauce (¼ cup per egg) and use coconut oil instead of butter. The result is a tender, dairy-free cake that's rich in flavor!
Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum for that delightful structure!
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a hint of cardamom for an unexpected kick. This twist transforms your cake into a unique flavor adventure.
Fruit Boost: Toss in some diced pears or chopped walnuts to add depth and texture. They provide a beautiful contrast to the spiced cake that your family will love.
Caramel Drizzle: For a decadent touch, drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the cake before serving. It's an indulgent way to elevate the sweetness in each bite!
Maple Glaze: Replace apple cider with maple syrup to create a mouthwatering glaze that adds depth to the already rich flavors. This twist will have your kitchen filled with sweet, cozy aromas.
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk in place of regular apple cider for a dairy-free version without sacrificing that beloved apple flavor.
Nut-Free: If you're keeping it nut-free, simply omit any nuts in your variations. This cake stands beautifully on its own, showcasing the cinnamon and apple cider wonderfully.

No matter how you choose to customize your Apple Cider Cake, these variations ensure it remains a comforting favorite. For more delicious autumn-inspired desserts, don’t miss out on these Seasonal Treats to warm your heart and home!

How to Store and Freeze Apple Cider Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps it moist and delicious for any unexpected cravings!

Fridge: If you prefer, refrigerate the cake for about 5-7 days. Wrap it tightly to prevent any drying out or absorbing fridge odors.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze wrapped slices of Apple Cider Cake in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying!

Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it at room temperature for the best taste experience.

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cider Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can make the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply prepare it and cover it tightly in the mixing bowl before refrigerating. The dry ingredients can be pre-measured and mixed together, allowing you to save time on busy mornings. For optimal freshness, bake the cake no more than a day in advance, and store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. Just before serving, brush the warm apple cider glaze over the cake and coat it with the sugar mixture for that delightful crunch, ensuring your Apple Cider Cake is just as delicious as if it were freshly made!

What to Serve with Apple Cider Cake

As the cozy scents of cinnamon and nutmeg linger in the air, let’s explore delightful pairings that will elevate your Apple Cider Cake experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a cooling contrast, balancing the warm spices and enhancing the cake’s moist texture.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel over your cake will create an indulgent sweetness that complements the apple cider beautifully.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream brings a touch of elegance, making each slice feel even more special and decadent.
Fresh Pear Slices: The subtle sweetness and crunch of fresh pear slices cut through the rich flavors, creating a refreshing balance on your plate.
Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider served alongside your cake enhances the aromatic flavors, turning your dessert into a delightful fall feast.
Chai Tea: The warming spices of chai tea harmonize with the cake's flavors, providing a comforting drink to sip and savor.

Pairing any of these delightful options with your Apple Cider Cake will create a truly festive occasion, brimming with warmth and joy!

Apple Cider Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of apple cider should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh apple cider if you can find it. This will give your Apple Cider Cake a rich, fruity depth. Avoid using the clear, processed apple juice; it won't provide the same robust taste or moistness.

How should I store leftover Apple Cider Cake?
You can store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need it to last a bit longer, refrigerate it for about 5-7 days wrapped tightly to maintain its moisture and prevent it from absorbing any odors.

Can I freeze Apple Cider Cake?
Very! For freezing, slice the cooled cake and wrap each slice in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This ensures freshness and prevents freezer burn. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy, simply thaw the slices overnight in the fridge or at room temperature and warm them up in the microwave for a delightful treat!

I’m worried my cake may fall or not rise properly, any tips?
Great question! If your cake falls, it could be due to overmixing or improper oven temperature. Make sure to mix the batter just until combined and use an oven thermometer to ensure it's accurately preheated to 350°F. Additionally, avoid opening the oven door too early, as sudden changes in temperature can also affect the rise.

Can I add other ingredients or flavors to the cake?
The more the merrier! You can easily customize your Apple Cider Cake by adding chopped nuts, raisins, or even cranberries for a tart twist. Just be mindful of the balance in your batter—if you're adding more ingredients, consider reducing the flour slightly to maintain cake density.

Is this recipe safe for those with nut allergies?
Yes, you’re in luck! This Apple Cider Cake does not contain any nuts, making it a safe choice for those with nut allergies. Just be sure to check that any additional ingredients you might add are also nut-free.