There’s something about fall that invites us to indulge in cozy flavors. One of the quintessential autumn delights is Apple Cider Cake, an irresistibly moist, spiced dessert that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The recipe from In Bloom Bakery is one of the best takes on this fall favorite. If you’re ready to create a cake that’s rich in flavor, delicate in texture, and crowned with a luscious caramel glaze, this recipe will become a regular in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Cake
This Apple Cider Cake captures the essence of fall with every bite. Infused with apple cider reduction, it boasts an extra punch of apple flavor, making it stand out from traditional apple cakes. The moist, tender crumb comes from a combination of apple cider and sour cream, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
The real showstopper is the caramel glaze. Drizzling this sweet, buttery topping over the cake enhances the flavors and adds a decadent touch. Not to mention, the cake is beautifully decorated with cinnamon, apple slices, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar, making it a treat for the eyes as much as for the taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients that make this cake truly special:
- Apple cider: The star of the show! It’s boiled down to concentrate the flavor and gives the cake its signature apple taste.
- All-purpose flour: For structure and texture.
- Granulated sugar & brown sugar: Adds sweetness and a hint of caramel.
- Unsalted butter: Helps create a tender crumb.
- Eggs: Binds the ingredients and provides richness.
- Sour cream: Keeps the cake moist and adds a subtle tang.
- Baking powder & baking soda: Leavening agents for the perfect rise.
- Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves: These spices bring warmth and depth, enhancing the apple flavors.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a lovely undertone of flavor.
For the Caramel Glaze:
- Butter: The base of the caramel.
- Brown sugar: For a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- Heavy cream: For richness and smooth texture.
- Vanilla extract: Adds flavor to the glaze.
- A pinch of salt: To balance out the sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Cider Cake
1. Reduce the Apple Cider
To start, pour 1 ½ cups of apple cider into a small saucepan and bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce down to about ½ cup. This intensifies the apple flavor and infuses the cake with the essence of autumn.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves, and a pinch of salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a separate bowl, beat 1 cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar and ½ cup of brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a light, tender cake.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients
Add 2 large eggs to the butter mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, ½ cup of sour cream, and the reduced apple cider. These ingredients provide moisture and flavor to the cake.
5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
6. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into a greased and floured bundt cake pan or a 9×13 inch pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Caramel Glaze
While the cake is baking, prepare the caramel glaze. In a small saucepan, melt ½ cup of butter over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup of brown sugar and ¼ cup of heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the warm caramel glaze over the top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle the cake with cinnamon and arrange thin apple slices on top.
Apple Cider Cake – A Perfect Fall Dessert
This cake is perfect for fall gatherings, holiday dinners, or simply enjoying with a hot cup of tea or coffee. The moist texture, combined with the intense apple and spice flavors, makes it an unforgettable dessert that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this Apple Cider Cake from In Bloom Bakery is straightforward, with rewarding results every time.
Tips for the Best Apple Cider Cake
- Use high-quality apple cider: The better the cider, the better the cake. Look for one that’s fresh and unfiltered for maximum flavor.
- Don’t skip the cider reduction: Reducing the apple cider concentrates its flavor, making the cake rich with apple goodness.
- Make ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and glaze it just before serving.
- Customize your toppings: While the caramel glaze is divine, you can also dust the cake with powdered sugar or serve it with a dollop of whipped cream for a lighter touch.
Storing and Serving
This cake keeps well for several days, making it ideal for prepping ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and warm in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy.
FAQs
What is the key to making the perfect apple cider cake?
Is it necessary to reduce the apple cider?
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
How do I store leftover apple cider cake?
Can I use a different glaze instead of caramel?
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Conclusion
This Apple Cider Cake from In Bloom Bakery is the ultimate fall treat, combining the warmth of spices, the richness of caramel, and the essence of apples in every bite. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, this cake is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!