There’s nothing quite like the smell of a freshly baked Apple Cider Cake wafting through your kitchen, drawing in everyone from the living room faster than you can say “dessert.” The moist, spiced cake, with apple bits peeking through, is both a hug and a high-five to your taste buds.

Imagine slicing into that golden cake, the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg making your mouth water. Whether it’s a cozy fall afternoon or a festive gathering, this cake has that magical ability to bring people together—and trust me, it’s guaranteed to make you the star of any potluck.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This delightful Apple Cider Cake is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all levels
- The flavors blend beautifully, creating a deliciously unique experience with every bite
- Its warm colors and inviting aroma will impress anyone who walks through your door
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for breakfast or dessert!
I still remember the time I made this cake for my family reunion. Everyone raved about it and demanded seconds (and thirds!). Watching my grandmother’s eyes light up as she took her first bite was priceless.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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All-Purpose Flour: A staple for structure; ensure it’s sifted for a lighter texture.
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Baking Powder: Essential for leavening; choose fresh for best results.
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Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice; use ground cinnamon for an even distribution.
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Nutmeg: A pinch enhances flavor; freshly grated nutmeg elevates the cake’s aroma.
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Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the deal; adjust based on your sweetness preference.
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Brown Sugar: Adds moisture and depth; light brown sugar works wonderfully here.
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Eggs: Bind everything together; use large eggs at room temperature for better mixing.
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Apple Cider: The star ingredient; go for unfiltered cider to maximize flavor impact.
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Apples: Use tart apples like Granny Smith for contrast; chop into small pieces.
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Vegetable Oil: Ensures moistness; you can substitute with melted butter if desired.
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Vanilla Extract: For that warm, comforting flavor; opt for pure extract over imitation.
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Powdered Sugar (for glaze): Optional but recommended; whisk with cider for a sweet topping.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Apple Cider Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with nonstick spray. This ensures that your cake pops out easily after baking—no one wants a cake casualty!
Next, in a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Whisk these dry ingredients until they’re well mixed—trust me, no one likes flour lumps hidden in their cake batter.
In another bowl, beat together eggs until fluffy. Add apple cider, oil, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined—this mixture should remind you of autumn in liquid form!
Gradually mix in the dry ingredients from the first bowl. Be careful not to overmix; we want our cake airy and light! Gently fold in those diced apples as if you’re tucking them in for a cozy nap.
Pour the batter into your greased pan and smooth out the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean—your kitchen should smell heavenly by now!
Once baked, let it cool completely before glazing. For an extra touch of sweetness, whisk powdered sugar with some apple cider until smooth. Drizzle over your cooled cake like you’re an artist finishing their masterpiece.
And there you have it! Your scrumptious Apple Cider Cake is ready to be devoured—with friends or solo while binge-watching your favorite show—it’s entirely up to you!
You Must Know
- Apple cider cake is more than a dessert; it’s an experience
- The sweet aroma fills the kitchen, blending cinnamon and apples to create a cozy atmosphere
- Perfect for autumn gatherings or any day that needs a little extra sweetness
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. While it heats, mix the dry ingredients and set aside. Combine wet ingredients next, then mix both mixtures until just combined for the perfect texture.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite spices like nutmeg or allspice for added warmth. Consider adding nuts or raisins for texture, making each bite uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover apple cider cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, and reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh apple cider for maximum flavor; it makes a world of difference in taste
- Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps your cake fluffy and light
- Always let your cake cool completely before frosting to avoid a melty disaster!
Sometimes I bake this apple cider cake when friends come over, and their smiles say it all—nothing beats homemade treats shared with loved ones!
FAQ
What type of apples are best for apple cider cake?
Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor in your cake.
Can I make apple cider cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend without compromising taste or texture.
How do I ensure my apple cider cake stays moist?
Add an extra egg and don’t overbake to keep your cake beautifully moist and delicious.

Irresistible Apple Cider Cake
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- Author: Clara Rosewood
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Experience the cozy essence of fall with this delightful Apple Cider Cake. Infused with warm spices and studded with tart apple pieces, each slice offers a moist, comforting taste that will leave your guests asking for more. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that fills your kitchen with an inviting aroma. Whether served as a dessert or a sweet breakfast treat, it’s bound to become a beloved favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup apple cider (unfiltered)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (pure)
- 2 cups tart apples (such as Granny Smith), chopped
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs until fluffy. Add apple cider, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract; stir until mixed.
- Gradually combine the wet and dry mixtures without overmixing. Gently fold in the diced apples.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before glazing if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 94g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg









