Festive Bourbon Apple Cider Cake

Warm apple cider cake with bourbon icing quickly became my go-to for cozy celebrations and holiday get-togethers Its rich cider flavor juicy Honeycrisp apples and a gentle kick from bourbon hit all the right notes Not only does it whisper apple cider doughnut in every bite but it always wows friends and family with that glossy caramel drizzle

The first time I made this cake was for Friendsgiving and it was gone before the main course even hit the table Now every family party gets a request for the bourbon glaze

Ingredients

• Apple cider: brings concentrated apple tang and sweetness Take the time to reduce for full flavor
• All-purpose flour: forms a sturdy crumb and holds up well to apples and moisture Make sure to spoon and level for accurate measuring
• Baking powder: ensures a tall fluffy rise
• Salt: balances the sweetness and heightens spice notes fine sea salt is best
• Unsalted butter: gives richness without extra salt Use good quality butter at room temperature for the softest texture
• Sugar: sweetens and creates a soft crumb Opt for fine granulated sugar for best consistency
• Large eggs: bind the batter and add richness Let them come to room temperature for even mixing
• Whole milk: keeps the cake tender and moist
• Vanilla: enhances all the warm flavors Pure vanilla gives the cake a cozy aroma
• Ground cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and allspice: work together to create a warm spicy depth Fresh spices make a big difference
• Honeycrisp apples: add natural sweetness and juiciness Choose apples that are very firm for the best puree
• Cream cheese (for the icing): brings creamy tanginess Use full fat for luxurious texture
• Powdered sugar: creates fluffy smooth frosting Sift if lumpy
• Bourbon: is the star of the frosting Choose a bourbon you enjoy sipping
• Honey, caramel, or dulce de leche: makes a beautiful glaze Choose whichever speaks to you

Step-by-Step Instructions

Reduce the Cider:

Pour apple cider into a small saucepan and simmer over medium heat until it reduces to one cup This amplifies the apple flavor and gives your cake more depth

Prep Pans and Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Grease three nine inch cake pans and line with parchment for easy release This step is key so you do not lose any of that delicious cake

Mix Dry Ingredients:

In a large bowl combine flour salt baking powder and all the spices Whisk so everything is evenly distributed This ensures no clumps of baking powder or spice

Cream Butter and Sugar:

In a stand mixer beat the softened butter with sugar on medium high until pale and fluffy This step takes three to five minutes and makes a tender cake

Add Eggs One by One:

Drop in eggs individually mixing well after each one This keeps your batter smooth and fully emulsified

Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients:

With your mixer on low add a third of the flour mixture then a third of the milk and vanilla blend Repeat until all incorporated alternating creates a softer crumb

Blend in Apples and Cider:

Gently pour pureed Honeycrisp apples and the reduced cider into your batter Mix just until combined to not overwork the gluten

Divide and Bake:

Evenly divide the batter into prepared pans Smooth tops For uniform layers tap the pans against the counter Place in the oven and bake for about twenty five minutes or until a toothpick comes out almost clean

Make the Icing:

In the clean stand mixer bowl beat soft cream cheese and butter until ultra creamy Add powdered sugar slowly pausing to scrape sides When smooth mix in bourbon and vanilla until just combined

Assemble and Glaze:

Once cakes are completely cool spread a layer of icing between each round Stack neatly Frost with a thin layer for a rustic look For glossy finish drizzle with honey caramel or dulce de leche

Save

I always look forward to drizzling caramel over the finished cake It is a hands on moment that kids love to help with and they will sneak little spoons of caramel while you work

Storage Tips

Keep the cake loosely covered in the fridge to maintain moisture Let slices come to room temperature for the best texture Leftovers stay tender even after three days You can also freeze individual layers before frosting just wrap tightly and use within a month

Ingredient Substitutions

If Honeycrisp apples are not in season use Fuji or Gala for comparable sweetness and juiciness You can swap bourbon for apple brandy or even skip the alcohol for a family friendly version Full fat cream cheese is crucial for the frosting do not use low fat it is too watery

Serving Suggestions

This cake makes a stunning centerpiece for fall celebrations Serve with steaming mugs of spiced cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream If you like extra indulgence add a drizzle of extra caramel right before serving

Cultural and Seasonal Inspiration

Apple cider cake is a classic in many American families for autumn and winter get togethers It is a nostalgic treat inspired by visits to cider mills and county fairs Adding bourbon and tangy frosting turns it into an elegant dessert fit for birthdays or holiday parties

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you maximize apple cider flavor in the cake?

Reducing apple cider by simmering until it’s halved intensifies its flavor, making the cake taste just like a classic cider donut.

→ What makes the icing extra creamy?

Using full-fat cream cheese and room temperature butter ensures your icing is rich, smooth, and stable.

→ Can you substitute another apple variety?

Yes, while Honeycrisp apples provide sweetness and texture, other firm, sweet-tart apples can also be used.

→ How do I prevent the cake from splitting?

Make sure eggs, butter, and milk are at room temperature and release air bubbles by tapping filled pans on the counter.

→ How do I achieve a thicker frosting layer?

Double the icing ingredients if you prefer a fully frosted cake instead of a naked-style exterior.

→ What are good glaze options for finishing?

Drizzle with honey, caramel, or dulce de leche for added sweetness and a glossy finish.