apple cider cake

Apple cider cake: 5 irresistible ways to make it this fall

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Apple Cider Cake: 5 Irresistible Ways to Make It This Fall

As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves turn vibrant hues, there's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a freshly baked apple cider cake filling your home. This delightful dessert captures the essence of fall, blending the sweet and tangy flavors of apple cider with warm spices. Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering or simply indulging in a personal treat, an apple cider cake is the perfect companion to a cup of tea or coffee. Personally, I love how the moist texture and spiced aroma make it a seasonal favorite in my household. Preparing this cake takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, including baking time, making it a manageable yet impressive dessert to share.

Ingredients

For the Apple Cider Reduction:

  • 1 cup apple cider

For the Cake:

  • 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup peeled and chopped apples (such as Granny Smith)

For the Glaze:

  • 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider reduction
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Prep Time & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Apple Cider Reduction: In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup of apple cider to a simmer over medium heat. Let it reduce by half, approximately 12 minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.

  2. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan or fluted tube pan.

  3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.

  4. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

  5. Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.

  6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk and vanilla extract. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

  7. Incorporate Apple Cider Reduction: Stir in 1/2 cup of the cooled apple cider reduction until evenly distributed.

  8. Add Apples: Gently fold in the chopped apples.

  9. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  10. Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

  11. Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners' sugar, 2 tablespoons of the apple cider reduction, and cinnamon until smooth.

  12. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.

Tips & Tricks

  • Apple Variety: Granny Smith apples add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake, but feel free to use your favorite variety.

  • Spice Variations: Experiment with additional spices like ground ginger or allspice to customize the flavor profile.

  • Make Ahead: The apple cider reduction can be prepared a day in advance to save time.

  • Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

  • Freezing: The unglazed cake freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw and glaze before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a warm cup of spiced chai tea to enhance the autumn flavors.

  • Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

  • Accompany with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for added indulgence.

  • Enjoy with a glass of chilled apple cider to complement the cake's flavors.

Storage & Reheating

  • Storage: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes.

  • Freezing: The unglazed cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature, then glaze before serving.

Nutrition Info

Per serving (based on 12 servings):

  • Calories: 350
  • Total