Introduction

The Apple Cider Bundt Cake is a moist, warmly spiced dessert perfect for fall gatherings or cozy afternoons. Infused with apple flavors and a delicate blend of spices, it offers a comforting treat that pairs beautifully with whipped cream or caramel sauce.

The image shows a single-layer bundt cake placed on a white plate. The cake is golden brown with a soft, textured surface and has a ring shape with scalloped edges. Light icing glaze drips down from the top, pooling slightly along the cake’s curves. The top is sprinkled with granulated sugar and cinnamon, giving a slightly rough, sugary texture with brown specks. In the background, two red apples and cinnamon sticks sit on a smooth white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all purpose flour
1½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground cinnamon
¾ tsp ground ginger
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp salt
1 cup apple cider
½ cup applesauce or apple butter
½ cup unsalted butter softened
¼ cup canola or vegetable oil
¾ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup light brown sugar packed
2 large eggs
1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Topping:

2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
⅓ cup granulated sugar
½ tsp ground cinnamon
Whipped cream or caramel sauce, optional for serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and position a rack in the middle. Prepare a 10-cup bundt pan but do not grease it yet.
Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: In a glass measuring cup, combine the apple cider and applesauce (or apple butter) and whisk until smooth. Set aside.
Step 4: Using a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, beat the softened butter, oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together for about 2 minutes until mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 5: Add the eggs and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until just combined, scraping down the bowl as needed.
Step 6: Gradually add the flour mixture to the batter in three parts, alternating with the apple cider mixture in two parts. Begin and end with the flour mixture, beating well after each addition.
Step 7: Gently fold the batter with a rubber spatula to ensure even mixing but avoid overmixing.
Step 8: Thoroughly grease the bundt pan with baking spray containing flour or a similar method to prevent sticking.
Step 9: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
Step 10: Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 11: Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for 15 minutes. Then carefully invert the cake onto the rack to cool completely.
Step 12: Place a large piece of parchment or foil under the rack. While the cake is still warm, brush the melted butter on top, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar topping evenly over the cake.
Step 13: Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream or caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Tips & Variations

For a deeper apple flavor, reduce apple cider slightly by simmering before adding to the batter.
Substitute apple butter for applesauce to add richness and a more intense apple flavor.
Add chopped nuts or dried cranberries to the batter for texture and extra taste.
Ensure the bundt pan is well-greased with a flour spray to prevent sticking and ease removal.

Storage

Store the cake tightly covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap well in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. Warm slices gently in the microwave to refresh the cake’s softness.

How to Serve

A round bundt cake with a golden brown color sits on a white plate atop a white marbled surface. The cake has a textured, slightly rough outer layer and is drizzled with a light white glaze that flows down the sides unevenly. The top is sprinkled generously with coarse sugar and cinnamon, adding a sparkling and grainy texture. In the background, two red apples and several cinnamon sticks are slightly out of focus, creating a cozy, warm atmosphere. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh apples instead of applesauce or apple butter?

Fresh apples can alter the texture and moisture level, so it’s best to stick with applesauce or apple butter for this recipe. If using fresh apples, finely grate or puree them and consider adjusting liquid quantities.

What can I substitute for apple cider if I don’t have any?

You can replace apple cider with equal parts apple juice or a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar (use less vinegar). Keep in mind that this may slightly change the flavor profile.