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Apple Cider Caramel Poke Cake

apple cider caramel poke cake - featured image

A decadent dessert that combines sweet, spiced apple cider and rich, buttery caramel, perfect for fall gatherings or cozy evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup apple cider
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Whipped cream (optional)
  • Chopped pecans (optional)
  • A sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, apple cider, eggs, vegetable oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Beat with an electric mixer or whisk until smooth and well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
  3. Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.
  4. Using a skewer or fork, poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
  5. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water over medium heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, then stop stirring and let it boil until the mixture turns a deep amber color (about 8-10 minutes).
  6. Carefully pour the room-temperature heavy cream into the caramel. Stir until smooth, then add the butter and vanilla extract. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
  7. Pour the warm caramel sauce over the poked cake, letting it seep into the holes. Use a spatula to spread it evenly across the top.
  8. Let the cake cool completely before serving. Top with whipped cream, chopped pecans, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flair.

Notes

[‘Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake fluffy.’, ‘Use fresh apple cider for the best flavor.’, ‘Watch for the deep amber color when making caramel sauce to avoid burning.’, ‘Poke generously to ensure the caramel soaks into the cake.’, ‘Let eggs and cream come to room temperature for smoother mixing.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: apple cider, caramel, poke cake, fall dessert, easy baking, Thanksgiving dessert