Apple Cider Pound Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

If you’re craving a dessert that perfectly captures the cozy flavors of fall, this Apple Cider Pound Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a moist, tender pound cake infused with fragrant apple cider and topped with a sweet, spiced cinnamon glaze that simply melts in your mouth. Trust me, once you’ve made this, it will become one of your go-to treats for any occasion.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

• Rich, Buttery Flavor: The combination of butter and sugar creates a classic pound cake texture that’s delightfully dense yet tender.
• Seasonal Perfectness: Apple cider and cinnamon come together to evoke cozy autumn vibes, making this an ideal treat for fall gatherings.
• Simple Ingredients: You probably already have everything you need in your pantry, so it’s fuss-free but impressive.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it as is, dress it up with toppings, or even serve it alongside your favorite fall beverages.

Ingredients & Substitutions

This recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully to build deep flavor and a moist crumb. Each component plays a role: butter enriches the cake, apple cider adds fruity brightness, and a pinch of cinnamon in the glaze creates that irresistible warmth.

• Butter: Use unsalted and softened for easy creaming and to control the salt level precisely.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar gives sweetness and contributes to the lovely texture.
• Eggs: They bind the batter and add richness – room temperature eggs mix better.
• Flour: All-purpose works perfectly to give structure without making the cake tough.
• Baking Powder & Salt: Just enough to help the cake rise and balance flavors.
• Apple Cider: Adds natural sweetness and a subtle fruity tang – you can use fresh or store-bought without preservatives.
• Powdered Sugar: For the smooth, sweet glaze.
• Cinnamon: A little pinch gives the glaze that perfect spiced kick.

How to Make Apple Cider Pound Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Cream Butter & Sugar

Start by lining a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving some extra hanging on the sides so the cake lifts out easily when baked. Then, take the softened butter and sugar and cream them together in a stand mixer until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and perfect for incorporating air into your cake batter.

Step 2: Add Eggs and Mix the Dry Ingredients

Add the eggs one at a time to your creamed butter and sugar, beating well after each addition to keep the batter smooth and uniform. Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt so they’re evenly combined and ready to be mixed into the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Apple Cider

Slowly add portions of the dry mix alternated with the apple cider into the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. This gentle folding ensures your cake stays moist with an irresistible flavor from that cider.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan, giving the pan a couple of gentle taps on the counter to bring any trapped air bubbles to the surface. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes, or until a butter knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will fill with the most comforting aroma!

Step 5: Cool and Remove the Cake

Allow the cake to cool for about 10-15 minutes in the pan, then carefully run a knife along the edges to loosen it before lifting it out using the parchment paper flaps. Finish cooling on a wire rack so the glaze won’t melt upon application.

Step 6: Prepare and Pour the Cinnamon Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, apple cider, and a pinch of cinnamon in a bowl until you have a smooth glaze. Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the completely cooled cake, letting it set before slicing.

How to Serve Apple Cider Pound Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a few thin apple slices on top can elevate the presentation, adding a fresh, elegant touch that complements the cake’s warm flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This apple cider pound cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a hot spiced tea or a mug of warm cider to maintain that seasonal vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking thick slices between layers of whipped cream and caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert trifle or serve the slices warm topped with a sprinkle of toasted nuts for added texture and a cozy finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover slices in plastic wrap or keep the cake covered in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep it fresh and moist, ready for whenever a sweet craving hits.

Freezing

If you want to keep this delightful treat even longer, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best results.

Reheating

Heat individual slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to bring back the soft texture and enjoy the warm cinnamon aroma, as if it was freshly baked.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

The Apple Cider Pound Cake with Cinnamon Glaze Recipe has such a warm, comforting taste that it invites you to slow down and savor each bite. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a hug on a plate—perfect for sharing with friends and family or indulging just because. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.

Print