Apple Cider Cake Recipe
This apple cider cake recipe is the perfect fall dessert when you’re craving something warm, moist, and full of cozy apple and cinnamon flavor. Made with real apple cider, brown sugar, warm spices, and a buttery cinnamon topping, this homemade cake has everything you want in a classic autumn dessert.
The cake is soft and tender inside with lightly crisp edges and a delicious cinnamon-sugar finish. It’s easy enough for a weeknight baking project but special enough for Thanksgiving, fall gatherings, or weekend brunch.
If you love apple desserts, this moist apple cider cake is one you’ll want to make every fall. It has the comforting flavor of an apple cider spice cake, but with a simple preparation that makes it approachable for beginner bakers.
Whether you’re looking for an easy apple cider cake, a homemade dessert, or a new fall apple cake recipe, this one is a delicious place to start.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Cake
- Full of real apple cider flavor
- Soft, moist, and tender
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
- Warmly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg
- Perfect for fall breakfasts and desserts
- Delicious with coffee, tea, or whipped cream
- Can be made as a Bundt cake, loaf cake, or simple round cake
- Great for Thanksgiving and autumn gatherings
Ingredients for Apple Cider Cake
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup apple cider
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the best flavor, use fresh apple cider rather than apple juice. The cider gives this homemade apple cider cake a deeper, more concentrated apple flavor.
How to Make Apple Cider Cake
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9-inch Bundt pan thoroughly, making sure to coat the center tube and all the crevices. You can also use baking spray with flour.
If you don’t have a Bundt pan, a 9-inch round cake pan or loaf pan will work.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
Set the mixture aside.
These warm spices are what give the cake its classic apple cider spice cake flavor.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for about 2–3 minutes, until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Add the Apple Cider
Pour in the apple cider and sour cream and mix until combined.
The mixture may look slightly separated at this stage, which is normal.
5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
Mix just until no large streaks of flour remain. Do not overmix the batter.
Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of soft and tender.
6. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes.
Then carefully turn it onto a wire rack and allow it to cool further.
7. Add the Cinnamon Sugar Topping
While the cake is still slightly warm, brush the top with melted butter.
Mix the granulated sugar and cinnamon together, then sprinkle the mixture generously over the cake.
This simple topping gives the cake a delicious cinnamon-sugar crust and makes it taste similar to an apple cider donut cake.
How to Make a Moist Apple Cider Cake
The key to a moist apple cider cake is balancing the liquid and fat without overbaking it.
Here are a few simple tips:
- Use room-temperature eggs and butter.
- Don’t overmix the batter.
- Measure flour correctly by spooning it into a measuring cup and leveling it.
- Use full-fat sour cream for a tender crumb.
- Don’t overbake the cake.
- Let the cake cool before slicing so the moisture settles throughout the crumb.
Fresh apple cider also makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Apple Cider Cake With Cinnamon
If you love cinnamon, this apple cider cake with cinnamon is especially delicious.
For even more cinnamon flavor, add another ½ teaspoon of cinnamon to the batter and increase the cinnamon-sugar topping slightly.
You can also drizzle the cooled cake with a simple cinnamon glaze made from powdered sugar, cinnamon, and a little apple cider.
Apple Cider Bundt Cake With Glaze
A Bundt pan makes this cake look beautiful with very little decorating effort.
To make an apple cider bundt cake with glaze, prepare a quick glaze using:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons apple cider
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon
Whisk everything together until smooth. Add a little more apple cider if necessary to reach your desired consistency.
Drizzle the glaze over the completely cooled cake.
For a holiday dessert table, the combination of an apple cider Bundt cake and cinnamon glaze is hard to beat.
Apple Cider Donut Cake Variation
Want the flavor of apple cider donuts in cake form?
Turn this recipe into an apple cider donut cake by brushing the entire warm cake with melted butter and coating it generously with cinnamon sugar.
The outside develops a sweet, buttery coating while the inside stays soft and moist.
This is especially delicious served warm with a cup of coffee.
Easy Apple Cider Cake Tips
This easy apple cider cake doesn’t require complicated baking techniques, but a few small details can make the result even better.
Don’t Overmix
Once the flour goes into the batter, mix only until combined. Overmixing develops gluten and can make the cake chewy.
Use Real Apple Cider
Apple cider has a stronger apple flavor than regular apple juice, making it the better choice for this recipe.
Don’t Overbake
Start checking the cake around 40 minutes. Every oven is slightly different.
Grease the Bundt Pan Well
Bundt cakes can stick because of their detailed shape. Make sure every area of the pan is properly greased.
Let It Cool Slightly Before Topping
A slightly warm cake absorbs the melted butter beautifully and helps the cinnamon sugar stick.
Apple Cider Cake From Scratch
Making an apple cider cake from scratch is easier than it sounds.
You don’t need boxed cake mix or special baking equipment. Basic pantry ingredients, fresh apple cider, and a few warm spices are enough to create a bakery-style fall dessert at home.
The homemade version also lets you control the sweetness and spice level.
If you want a richer apple flavor, simmer the apple cider in a saucepan for several minutes before using it. Let it cool before adding it to the batter. Reducing the cider concentrates its flavor.
Apple Cider Loaf Cake
You can easily turn this recipe into an apple cider loaf cake.
Use a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan and bake at 350°F for approximately 50–60 minutes. Begin checking around 50 minutes with a toothpick.
Once cooled, drizzle it with apple cider glaze or dust it with cinnamon sugar.
Apple cider loaf cake is especially convenient for breakfast, brunch, or gifting.
Apple Cider Coffee Cake Variation
For an apple cider coffee cake, add a crumb topping before baking.
Combine:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons cold butter
Cut the butter into the flour mixture until coarse crumbs form.
Sprinkle the topping over the batter before baking.
Serve slices with coffee for an easy fall breakfast or afternoon treat.
How to Serve Apple Cider Cake
This cake is delicious on its own, but you can make it even more special with simple toppings.
Try serving it with:
- Whipped cream
- Vanilla ice cream
- Caramel sauce
- Apple butter
- Cinnamon whipped cream
- Warm apple cider glaze
- A dusting of powdered sugar
For a holiday dinner, serve warm slices with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel.
Can You Add Apples to This Cake?
Absolutely.
For extra apple flavor, fold ½–1 cup finely diced peeled apples into the batter before baking.
Use firm apples such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Pink Lady.
Adding fresh apples creates a more fruit-forward version of this fall apple cake recipe while keeping the cake moist and flavorful.
How to Store Apple Cider Cake
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If your kitchen is particularly warm, refrigerate the cake instead.
Bring refrigerated slices to room temperature before serving, or warm them gently in the microwave for about 10–15 seconds.
Can You Freeze Apple Cider Cake?
Yes.
Allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
For the best texture, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving.
If possible, add the glaze or cinnamon-sugar topping after thawing.
How to Make This Apple Cider Dessert Healthier
If you’re looking for a lighter apple cider dessert recipe, you can make a few simple changes.
- Reduce the sugar slightly.
- Use part whole-wheat flour.
- Add finely diced apples for natural sweetness.
- Use a lighter glaze instead of a thick frosting.
- Serve smaller slices with fresh fruit.
- Skip the extra butter topping if preferred.
Keep in mind that changing the ingredients can slightly affect the cake’s texture.
Recipe Variations
Apple Cider Spice Cake
Increase the cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves slightly for a stronger spiced flavor.
Glazed Apple Cider Bundt Cake
Skip the cinnamon-sugar coating and finish the cooled Bundt cake with apple cider glaze.
Caramel Apple Cider Cake
Drizzle cooled slices with homemade or store-bought caramel sauce.
Apple Cider Chocolate Cake
Add a small amount of mini chocolate chips for a chocolate-and-apple variation.
Nutty Apple Cider Cake
Fold ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best apple cider cake recipe?
The best apple cider cake recipe depends on your preferred texture and flavor, but a cake made with real apple cider, cinnamon, warm spices, butter, and sour cream creates a particularly moist and flavorful result.
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
Yes, but the flavor will be lighter. Apple cider generally provides a stronger apple taste, making it preferable for this recipe.
Can I make this recipe without a Bundt pan?
Yes. You can use a 9-inch round cake pan or a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Baking time will vary depending on the pan you choose.
Why did my apple cider cake turn out dry?
The most common causes are too much flour, overmixing, or overbaking. Measure the flour carefully and start checking the cake before the recommended baking time is finished.
How do I make my apple cider cake more flavorful?
Use fresh apple cider and warm spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. You can also reduce the cider slightly before using it to concentrate its flavor.
Is this an easy apple cider cake recipe for beginners?
Yes. This is a straightforward recipe with basic ingredients and simple mixing steps, making it a good choice for beginner bakers looking for an easy apple cider cake recipe.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes. You can bake the cake a day ahead and store it in an airtight container. Add the glaze or cinnamon-sugar topping closer to serving for the freshest presentation.
What makes this a good fall apple cake recipe?
Apple cider, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar give the cake the warm seasonal flavors associated with fall. It’s especially good for Thanksgiving, Halloween gatherings, brunches, and cozy weekend baking.
Can I turn this into an apple cider coffee cake?
Yes. Add a cinnamon crumb topping before baking and serve the cake with coffee for an easy breakfast-style variation.
What are some apple cider cake recipe ideas for fall?
Try turning the base recipe into an apple cider Bundt cake, apple cider loaf cake, apple cider donut cake, caramel apple cider cake, or a cinnamon crumb coffee cake.
Apple Cider Cake Recipe Tips
For the best results, remember these simple apple cider cake recipe tips:
- Use real apple cider for stronger apple flavor.
- Don’t overmix after adding the flour.
- Grease your Bundt pan thoroughly.
- Check the cake early to avoid overbaking.
- Let the cake cool slightly before adding cinnamon sugar.
- Use room-temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Add fresh diced apples if you want more fruit flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely before adding a glaze.
Quick Recipe Summary
Recipe: Apple Cider Cake
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Bake Time: 40–50 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 5 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Yield: 10–12 servings
Type: Fall Dessert
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup apple cider
- ½ cup sour cream
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla.
- Mix in apple cider and sour cream.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.
- Pour into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 40–50 minutes.
- Cool for 10–15 minutes before removing from the pan.
- Brush with melted butter and coat with cinnamon sugar, or drizzle with apple cider glaze.
Final Thoughts
This apple cider cake recipe is everything you want from a cozy fall dessert: soft, moist, warmly spiced, and packed with real apple cider flavor. The simple cinnamon-sugar topping gives it the comforting taste of an apple cider donut while the tender cake makes it perfect for serving with coffee or tea.
Whether you make a classic apple cider bundt cake, an apple cider loaf cake, a glazed version, or an apple cider donut cake, this recipe is easy to customize for any fall occasion.
If you’re searching for an easy apple cider cake recipe, a moist apple cider cake, or a homemade fall apple cake recipe, save this recipe and make it the next time you have fresh apple cider on hand. It’s an easy homemade dessert that’s just as welcome at a weekend brunch as it is on a Thanksgiving dessert table.