Apple Cider Cake

This Apple Cider Cake is a delightful dessert perfect for all occasions, from family gatherings to cozy fall celebrations. Bursting with apple cider flavor, this cake is incredibly moist and features a rich apple cider caramel filling. Topped with a creamy cream cheese frosting and a beautiful caramel swirl, this cake is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Flavorful: The use of apple cider ensures every bite is packed with moisture and flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, holiday, or just because, this cake fits right in.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy it plain, or dress it up with additional toppings like nuts or caramel drizzle.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers can master this recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Apple Cider Cake, gather your tools. Having the right equipment on hand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking pans (two 9-inch round)
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: This tool saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar or mixing batter thoroughly.
• Baking pans: Properly sized pans help the cake bake evenly and maintain its shape.

Ingredients

This is the best apple cider cake! It’s extra moist with lots of apple cider flavor, filled with apple cider caramel, topped with luscious cream cheese frosting and an apple cider caramel swirl.

For the Cake

• 6 cups (1440 ml) apple cider
• 2 1/4 cups (282 g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tbsp cinnamon
• 1 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp allspice
• 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 10 tbsp (140 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200 g) granulated white sugar
• 1/2 cup (110 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 3 eggs, at room temperature
• 1 tbsp vanilla
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (122 g) sour cream, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple cider reduction from above, at room temperature
• 1/3 cup (95 g) unsweetened apple butter, at room temperature

For the Caramel Filling

• 1/2 cup (120 ml) apple cider reduction from above, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup (165 g) light brown sugar, packed
• 9 tbsp (126 g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 1/8 tsp salt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 1 cup (224 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, cold
• 2 cups (260 g) powdered sugar

How to Make Apple Cider Cake

Step 1: Prepare Apple Cider Reduction

Begin by boiling the apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat. Reduce it until you have about 3 cups left. Allow it to cool before using it in your cake batter.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round baking pans with butter or cooking spray.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk until well blended.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

In another bowl using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients

Add eggs one at a time to the butter mixture. Then mix in vanilla extract followed by buttermilk and sour cream until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Mix until just incorporated. Finally, stir in the apple cider reduction and apple butter until smooth.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Make Caramel Filling

While cakes are cooling, prepare caramel filling by combining light brown sugar and unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until melted; add heavy cream slowly while whisking continuously. Cook until thickened.

Step 9: Prepare Frosting

For frosting, beat softened unsalted butter and cold cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing until fluffy.

Step 10: Assemble Cake

Once cooled completely, place one layer of cake on a serving plate. Spread half of the caramel filling on top followed by some frosting. Place the second layer on top and frost the whole cake. Drizzle remaining caramel on top for decoration.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Apple Cider Cake!

How to Serve Apple Cider Cake

Apple cider cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy addition that complements the cake’s richness.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts slightly, creating a delicious contrast with the warm cake.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling extra apple cider caramel sauce over the top. This adds extra sweetness and a gourmet touch.

Accompanied by Tea or Coffee

• Pair your slice of apple cider cake with a cup of hot tea or coffee. The warm beverages bring out the spices in the cake beautifully.

With Seasonal Fruit Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad made from seasonal fruits. This adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cake.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Cake

To ensure your apple cider cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh apple cider and room temperature eggs for optimal flavor and texture.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon and level your flour to avoid adding too much, which can make the cake dense.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to tough texture.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is properly calibrated. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and cake rise.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Let the cake cool completely before applying frosting to prevent it from melting off.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Cake

Apple cider cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that enhance its flavors. Here are some perfect options to consider:

1. Spiced Nuts
   Roasted mixed nuts tossed in cinnamon and sugar offer a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the cake.

2. Caramelized Apples
   Sautéed apples in butter and brown sugar provide a warm, fruity side that complements the apple flavor in the cake.

3. Cinnamon-Infused Hot Chocolate
   A rich hot chocolate spiced with cinnamon makes for a cozy drink that matches well with dessert.

4. Gingerbread Cookies
   These spiced cookies add a festive touch, making them perfect alongside apple cider cake during fall gatherings.

5. Maple Glazed Carrots
   Sweet maple-glazed carrots bring an earthy sweetness that contrasts nicely with the dessert’s flavors.

6. Cheese Platter
   A selection of cheeses like brie or sharp cheddar offers savory notes that balance out the sweet elements of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Apple Cider Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Incorrect Measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little can affect the cake’s texture and flavor.
• Skipping Room Temperature Ingredients: Failing to bring eggs and dairy to room temperature can lead to a denser cake. Allow these ingredients to sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing your batter too much can make the cake tough. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Starting with a cold oven can result in uneven baking. Always preheat your oven for at least 15 minutes before placing the cake inside.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into your cake while it’s still warm can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Apple Cider Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• If frosted, keep it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Freezing Apple Cider Cake

• Wrap the un-frosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To freeze slices, wrap each slice individually.

Reheating Apple Cider Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slice on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid on. This warms the cake gently without drying it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Apple Cider Cake.

What makes Apple Cider Cake moist?

The combination of apple cider and sour cream adds moisture and richness, creating a tender crumb.

Can I use other types of apples in my Apple Cider Cake?

Yes! Different varieties of apples can add unique flavors and textures. Experiment with Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples for delicious results.

How do I prevent my cake from sticking?

Grease your pan well with butter or non-stick spray, and consider lining the bottom with parchment paper for easier release.

Can I make this as cupcakes instead of a cake?

Absolutely! Adjust the baking time to around 20-25 minutes for cupcakes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Cider Cake is not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize with spices or fruit variations. Whether you enjoy it plain or topped with cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for fall gatherings or any special occasion. Don’t hesitate to try different flavors and enjoy this delightful dessert!