Irresistibly Moist Apple Cider Bundt Cake Recipe You Have to Try

There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the scent of spiced apple cider swirling through a warm kitchen, especially when it’s in the form of a cake that’s as comforting as an old, woollen blanket. My Apple Cider Bundt Cake is one of those recipes that takes me right back to my childhood in Devon, where my mum’s baking filled the cottage with memories of laughter and cozy afternoons. This cake isn’t just a treat—it’s a story, a ritual, and a little slice of home all rolled into one. I’m thrilled to share it with you, hoping it will bring the same warmth and magic to your table as it has to mine.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cider Bundt Cake

Growing up, I learned early on that food is far more than just fuel—it’s a way to hold onto moments and memories. This Apple Cider Bundt Cake is a perfect example. It’s a celebration of the crisp, golden autumn days in Devon, where apple orchards lined the lanes near our cottage and the air was always tinged with spice and sweetness. The cider adds a gentle tang and moist crumb, while the cinnamon and nutmeg bring that familiar warmth that makes you want to curl up with a cup of tea.

This cake is beautifully moist without being heavy, and the Bundt shape means it’s wonderfully easy to slice and share—something I always appreciate when our small kitchen table is bursting with family and friends. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that’s forgiving enough for kitchen beginners but rewarding for seasoned bakers who love a bit of rustic charm in their baking. It’s a recipe that tells a story in every bite, much like the ones I scribbled in my tea-stained notebooks as a child.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Apple Cider Bundt Cake

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (you can substitute half with whole wheat for a nuttier texture)
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup apple cider (preferably fresh or good-quality store-bought)
• ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt as a substitute)
• 1 large apple, peeled and finely diced (I like using Bramley for their tartness)

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 320 per slice (based on 12 slices)
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 22g
• Sodium: 180mg

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Steps to Create Your Apple Cider Bundt Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously butter a 10-inch Bundt pan, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies, then lightly dust it with flour. This little step always helps me avoid the frustration of a cake that sticks, especially when I’m rushing after a morning of chasing my little ones around the garden.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This is where the spices start to awaken the memory of autumn afternoons spent with my mum, who always said, “Spice is the soul of baking.”
3. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy—about 4 minutes with an electric mixer. The smell at this stage is just the beginning of the magic.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. I always remind myself to scrape down the bowl to make sure everything mixes evenly; it’s a small habit from my early baking days that made a big difference.
5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and apple cider to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—overmixing can make the cake tough, and I’ve learned that the hard way more than once!
6. Fold in the sour cream and diced apple gently, preserving the tender texture and moist crumb that makes this cake so special.
7. Pour the batter evenly into your prepared Bundt pan. Give the pan a gentle tap on the counter to release any air bubbles—this little trick comes from watching my mum perfect her fruit cakes over decades.
8. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen by this point will be impossible to resist.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Bundt cakes can be delicate, so patience here will reward you with a perfect release and beautiful shape.

Tips for Making the Best Apple Cider Bundt Cake

One of my fondest memories is sneaking into the kitchen at dawn, trying to perfect my mum’s recipes without waking the rest of the household. Over the years, I’ve gathered a few little tips that make all the difference:

• Use fresh apple cider: The flavour really shines when the cider is fresh and not overly sweetened. If you can find local cider, even better—it’s like bottling the essence of the orchard.
• Don’t skip the sour cream: It’s key to that moist, tender crumb that keeps the cake from drying out, especially when stored for a day or two.
• Choose your apples wisely: Tart apples like Bramley or Granny Smith offer a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cake, but if you prefer sweeter, softer apples like Gala, they’ll work too.
• Butter and flour your Bundt pan thoroughly: This can’t be stressed enough. A sticky cake is a heartbreaking moment I’ve had more times than I care to admit.
• Let the cake cool properly: Bundt cakes need a bit of patience before unmolding. Rushing this step can lead to breakage.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

When it comes to serving this Apple Cider Bundt Cake, simplicity is my favourite approach. I love to slice it thickly and enjoy it with a generous dollop of clotted cream or crème fraîche. On chillier days, a drizzle of warm caramel sauce takes it to another level of indulgence—something my mum swore by for Sunday afternoons. Learn more: Irresistible Honey Peach Cream Cheese Cupcakes Recipe You Have to Try

Of course, a steaming pot of English breakfast tea or a cup of chai spiced latte complements the cake’s cinnamon and apple notes perfectly. For festive gatherings, I’ve even paired it with a sharp cheddar cheese, which surprises many guests but works beautifully to balance the sweetness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This cake keeps beautifully, which makes it an excellent choice for busy weekends or preparing ahead for a crowd. Once cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, I recommend slicing and freezing individual pieces wrapped in parchment and then foil, so you can thaw just what you need without drying out the rest. To reheat, pop a slice into a warm oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or microwave it gently for 20-30 seconds—just enough to bring back that fresh-baked warmth without overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Apple Cider Bundt Cake?

The main ingredients for Apple Cider Bundt Cake include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Apple Cider Bundt Cake?

The total time to make Apple Cider Bundt Cake includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Apple Cider Bundt Cake ahead of time?

Yes, Apple Cider Bundt Cake can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Apple Cider Bundt Cake?

Apple Cider Bundt Cake pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Apple Cider Bundt Cake suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Apple Cider Bundt Cake may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

Every time I bake this Apple Cider Bundt Cake, I’m transported back to those early mornings in our Devonshire kitchen, where flour dust floated in the sunbeams and every stir of the spoon was a moment stitched into family history. It’s a recipe that carries the essence of home—simple, honest, and full of heart. Whether you’re baking it for a festive occasion or a quiet teatime treat, I hope it brings you as much joy as it has brought me, wrapped in the warmth of cinnamon, apple, and a little bit of magic.