There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of tender, spiced cake that’s been lovingly baked in a classic bundt pan. This Apple Cider Bundt Cake brings together that cozy, snap-in-the-air feeling of fall with the sweet, tart richness of fresh apple cider. Fall in love with this moist and spiced Apple Cider Bundt Cake, perfect for cozy gatherings! With a prep time of just 25 minutes, a cooking window of 50–60 minutes, and a brief 20-minute rest, you’ll have a showstopping dessert on the table before you know it. Whether you’re a baking beginner or a seasoned pro, this approachable recipe (350 calories per slice) fills your kitchen with warm, welcoming notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves while delivering a tender crumb that’s studded with juicy, grated apple.
Packed with warm spices and fresh grated apples, this Apple Cider Bundt Cake is a festive treat that will fill your home with delightful aromas. Every forkful delivers a gentle hint of ground cloves that dances playfully alongside cinnamon, while the reduced apple cider and sour cream combine to keep each bite supremely moist. Generous grating of crisp apples offers bursts of natural sweetness and texture. As a dessert course that’s perfect for family gatherings, neighborhood potlucks, or a quiet afternoon treat, this fall dessert feels like a hug in cake form. Grab your bundt pan, fire up the oven, and let’s dive into how to make this spiced apple wonder!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN APPLE CIDER BUNDT CAKE
Before we dive into the mixing and baking, let’s chat about the cast of characters that make this bundt cake so irresistible. Each ingredient plays an essential role in achieving that perfect balance of spice, sweetness, and moisture.
- Apple cider
This is the star of the show, imparting tangy, fruity notes and natural sweetness. We reduce it to concentrate the flavor, ensuring every slice bursts with true apple essence.
- All-purpose flour
This pantry staple provides the structure and tender crumb that every bundt cake needs. It balances the moisture and allows for a sturdy yet soft texture.
- Baking powder
Serving as a leavening agent, it helps the cake rise beautifully, giving you that iconic domed top and airy interior.
- Baking soda
Working in tandem with the baking powder, it ensures a light, fluffy crumb and correct pH balance for optimal rising.
- Salt
A small dash enhances all the flavors, from the sweetness of the sugars to the warmth of the spices, and keeps the cake from tasting flat.
- Ground cinnamon
This warm, sweet spice gives the cake its classic autumnal character and complements the apple cider perfectly.
- Ground nutmeg
Nutmeg adds a nutty, slightly sweet depth that rounds out the spice palette without overpowering.
- Ground cloves
Just a hint of cloves provides a subtle bite and aromatic complexity, making each bite intriguing.
- Unsalted butter
Softened to room temperature, the butter brings richness and tenderness to the cake, creating a smooth, creamy batter.
- Granulated sugar
This white sugar adds necessary sweetness and helps to create a light, fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
- Brown sugar
Packed with molasses, it injects deeper caramel-like notes and extra moistness to the crumb.
- Eggs
They bind ingredients together, add richness, and help the cake rise, resulting in a tender, cohesive texture.
- Vanilla extract
A hint of vanilla heightens all the underlying flavors, giving the cake a warm, rounded finish.
- Sour cream
Adding tang and extra moisture, sour cream keeps the cake tender while balancing sweet and spicy notes.
- Peeled and grated apples
Fresh apple pieces scattered throughout the batter provide texture, bursts of sweetness, and a pleasing chew.
HOW TO MAKE APPLE CIDER BUNDT CAKE
Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s walk through the baking process together. Each step is designed to build layers of flavor and texture, resulting in a golden, spiced masterpiece that’s sure to impress.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly to ensure your cake releases cleanly after baking.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally as it reduces to about 1 cup, which should take approximately 10–15 minutes. This reduction intensifies the cider’s flavor and sweetens the cake naturally. Once thickened, set it aside to cool.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This ensures an even distribution of spices and rising agents.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter on medium speed with a hand mixer until it turns smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.
5. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Once the eggs are blended, stir in the vanilla extract for added warmth and aroma.
6. Pour in the cooled, reduced apple cider and the sour cream, mixing just until everything is well combined. This creates a luscious, moist batter.
7. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients gradually, mixing on low speed or folding with a spatula just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the crumb tender.
8. Gently fold in the grated apples, distributing them evenly without deflating the batter.
9. Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt pan, taking care to smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
11. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR APPLE CIDER BUNDT CAKE
Sharing this delightful bundt cake is almost as rewarding as baking it. Whether you’re celebrating a cozy family dinner, a festive holiday gathering, or simply indulging in an afternoon treat with a friend, these serving ideas will elevate every slice to the next level of deliciousness.
- Apple Cider Glaze Drizzle
Whisk together a simple glaze of powdered sugar and a splash of apple cider until smooth. Drizzle liberally over cooled cake for a sweet, glossy finish that enhances the apple flavor.
- Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream
Heat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds, then top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between warm cake and cold ice cream creates a luxurious dessert experience.
- Spiced Whipped Cream
Fold a pinch of ground cinnamon into freshly whipped cream. Dollop a generous spoonful on each slice to add a creamy, spiced richness without overpowering the cake.
- Caramel Apple Compote
Simmer diced apples, brown sugar, and a touch of butter until soft and saucy. Spoon the compote over each serving for an extra layer of apple goodness and a hint of caramel sweetness.
HOW TO STORE APPLE CIDER BUNDT CAKE
Proper storage ensures your cake stays moist and flavorful, whether you’re enjoying it over the next day or saving slices for later. With a few simple tricks, you can maintain that just-baked taste and texture.
- Room Temperature Keep
Once completely cooled, place the cake on a cake stand or plate and cover with a dome or large bowl. This method keeps the cake moist for up to 3 days without drying out.
- Airtight Container
Slice the cake and layer pieces in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Store at room temperature for 2–3 days, ensuring minimal air contact to preserve freshness.
- Refrigeration
For longer life, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature before serving to regain its soft crumb.
- Freezing
Slice the cake, wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap, then place in a zip-top freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for the best texture.
CONCLUSION
This Apple Cider Bundt Cake has all the hallmarks of a favorite fall dessert: warm spices, tender crumb, and pockets of juicy apple that brighten every bite. We’ve walked through each ingredient’s role, shown you step-by-step how to build layers of flavor, and offered tips for serving and storage that ensure every slice is as delightful as the first. If you love easy baking projects that fill your home with cozy vibes, this beginner-friendly bundt cake will quickly become your go-to for gatherings, welcome treats, and weekend indulgences. Feel free to print this article and save it in your recipe binder so you’re always ready to whip up a spiced slice of sweetness.
Remember, you can also find a FAQ below if you have any extra questions about substitutions or troubleshooting. I can’t wait to hear how your bundt cake turns out! Please leave a comment or question if you try the recipe or need help perfecting any step. Your feedback helps me share more kitchen adventures and ensure every home cook feels confident pulling this delicious dessert from the oven. Happy baking, and here’s to many cozy moments shared over a slice of Apple Cider Bundt Cake!
Apple Cider Bundt Cake
Description
Packed with warm spices and fresh grated apples, this Apple Cider Bundt Cake is a festive treat that will fill your home with delightful aromas.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly.
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In a medium saucepan, bring the apple cider to a simmer over medium heat. Continue to simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 1 cup, approximately 10-15 minutes. Set aside to cool.
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In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
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In a separate large mixing bowl, beat the butter with a hand mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the granulated sugar and brown sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
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Mix in the cooled, reduced apple cider and sour cream until well combined.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
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Fold the grated apples into the batter gently.
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Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
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Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 20 minutes, then invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Note
- This cake pairs wonderfully with a glaze made from apple cider and powdered sugar.
- For additional apple flavor, consider adding small apple chunks along with the grated apples.
- Serve this delicious cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
- This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days, or longer in the refrigerator.
