Apple Cider Bundt Cake
Apple Cider Bundt Cake is one of those delightful recipes that effortlessly captures the essence of fall. This luscious cake, infused with warm spices and the deep flavor of apple cider, is perfect for those crisp autumn days or any cozy gathering. I often whip this up for our family brunches, and the smell of it baking in the oven makes everyone feel at home. With its moist texture and rich flavors, this bundt cake quickly becomes a crowd-pleaser, especially when served with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream.
What Makes This Recipe Special
There are several reasons to fall in love with this Apple Cider Bundt Cake. It combines simple ingredients found in most kitchens with the delightful flavors of spice and sweetness, making it a great option for both novice and seasoned bakers. Not only is it budget-friendly, but it also presents beautifully for gatherings, making it a perfect centerpiece for holiday celebrations or a Sunday brunch.
“This cake is the highlight of our autumn! The spices blend beautifully with the apple cider. Everyone always asks for the recipe!”
Preparing Apple Cider Bundt Cake
This recipe comes together in a series of straightforward steps that are as easy as they are rewarding. Here’s a quick glance at how it unfolds:
- Preheat your oven and prep your bundt pan.
- Mix the dry ingredients together.
- Combine the apple cider and applesauce.
- Cream the butter, oils, and sugars together.
- Blend in the eggs and vanilla.
- Alternate adding the dry and wet mixtures.
- Fold the batter and pour it into the prepared pan.
- Bake until golden and toothpick clean.
- Cool and top the warm cake properly.
This overview should give you a solid sense of the steps involved. Now, let’s dive deep into the ingredients.
What You’ll Need
Gather these items to make your delicious bundt cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup apple cider
- 1/2 cup applesauce or apple butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup canola or vegetable oil
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for topping)
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for topping)
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for topping)
- Whipped cream and caramel sauce (optional for serving)
Feel free to substitute applesauce with apple butter for a more intense flavor, or swap unsalted butter for a dairy-free alternative if needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to prepare this scrumptious Apple Cider Bundt Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and position a rack in the middle. Prepare a 10-cup bundt pan (do not grease it just yet).
- In a bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- In a glass measuring cup, whisk the apple cider and applesauce (or apple butter) together. Set this aside, too.
- In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, canola oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for about 2 minutes until well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is incorporated. Scrape down the bowl as necessary.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture (in three parts) and the apple cider mixture (in two parts), starting and ending with the flour. Make sure to beat well after each addition.
- Carefully fold the batter with a rubber spatula, ensuring you don’t overmix.
- Now, grease the bundt pan thoroughly; baking spray with flour works excellently here.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the pan to cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. Once cooled, gently flip the cake onto the rack.
- Position a large piece of parchment or foil underneath the rack and sprinkle the topping while the cake is still warm.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
This Apple Cider Bundt Cake can be served in numerous ways! Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- A generous drizzle of homemade caramel sauce adds a decadent touch.
- Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert experience.
- Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, comforting touch.
- It also works wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your leftover Apple Cider Bundt Cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to allow it to thaw completely before serving.
Pro Chef Tips
Here are a few extra tips to ensure your bundt cake turns out perfectly:
- Ensure your butter is softened but not melted; this helps achieve the right texture in your batter.
- Don’t rush the mixing process. Be sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl to fully incorporate the ingredients.
- For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding finely chopped apples or nuts to the batter.
- Always use a toothpick to test for doneness—if it comes out moist with a few crumbs, that’s perfect!
Creative Twists
Looking to experiment? Here are some creative twists on the traditional Apple Cider Bundt Cake:
- Incorporate cranberries for a tart contrast.
- Swap in different spices like cardamom or cloves for a unique flavor profile.
- Drizzle a lemon glaze on top for a bright finish.
- Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Your Questions Answered
How long does this cake take to prepare?
Preparation time is about 20 minutes, with baking taking an additional 45 to 50 minutes.
Can I substitute apple cider with something else?
Yes! You can use apple juice or even a mixture of apple juice and water, but the flavor will be less robust.
How should I store the cake if I have leftovers?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for a week.
With its deep, rich flavors and aromatic spices, this Apple Cider Bundt Cake is bound to become a fall favorite in your household. Happy baking!
Apple Cider Bundt Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and position a rack in the middle. Prepare a 10-cup bundt pan (do not grease it just yet).
- In a bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- In a glass measuring cup, whisk the apple cider and applesauce (or apple butter) together. Set this aside.
- In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, canola oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for about 2 minutes until well combined.
- Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is incorporated. Scrape down the bowl as necessary.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture (in three parts) and the apple cider mixture (in two parts), starting and ending with the flour. Make sure to beat well after each addition.
- Carefully fold the batter with a rubber spatula, ensuring you don’t overmix.
- Now, grease the bundt pan thoroughly; baking spray with flour works excellently here.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the pan to cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes. Once cooled, gently flip the cake onto the rack.
- Position a large piece of parchment or foil underneath the rack and sprinkle the topping while the cake is still warm.
