Apple Cider Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. Infused with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider, this cake is spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, giving it a warm and comforting flavor profile. Topped with a glaze or dusted with powdered sugar, Apple Cider Cake is perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday celebrations, or a cozy treat with a cup of tea or coffee. The combination of fresh apples and apple cider gives this cake a rich, tender crumb that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups apple cider
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
For the glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp apple cider
Instructions
- Reduce the apple cider: In a small saucepan, simmer the apple cider over medium heat until it reduces to about 1/2 cup, approximately 10-15 minutes. Set aside to cool.
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan or 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and cooled, reduced apple cider.
- Combine the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the glaze (optional): Whisk together the powdered sugar and apple cider until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
This Apple Cider Cake is a tender, spiced dessert that’s perfect for fall, offering a deliciously sweet and tangy flavor with every bite!
