Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 3/4 cup butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups flour
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup apple cider
Glaze Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1-2 tbsp apple cider
- pinch cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing excess to hang over the sides for easy removal after baking. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes several minutes and incorporates air into the batter.
- Add Eggs: Crack the eggs one at a time into the butter-sugar mixture, beating thoroughly after each addition to ensure even incorporation and a smooth batter.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed to distribute the raising agent and salt uniformly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Apple Cider: Gradually add portions of the dry ingredient mixture alternately with the apple cider to the wet batter, mixing well after each addition until fully combined. This ensures a smooth batter with balanced moisture.
- Prepare for Baking: Liberally spray the parchment-lined loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the batter into the pan, smoothing the top if needed.
- Remove Air Bubbles: Gently drop the loaf pan on the counter 1-2 times to release any trapped air bubbles, preventing holes or uneven texture in the finished cake.
- Bake: Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a butter knife inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Run a clean knife around the edges to loosen, then lift the cake out using the parchment paper flaps and transfer to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
- Make the Glaze: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, apple cider (1-2 tablespoons), and a pinch of cinnamon until smooth and evenly combined, forming a pourable glaze.
- Glaze the Cake: Evenly pour the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides for a beautiful finish.
- Set and Serve: Allow the glaze to set for several minutes until firm. Slice the pound cake and serve, enjoying the tender crumb and sweet apple cider flavor.
Notes
- Ensure butter is softened to room temperature to achieve a smooth, fluffy batter.
- Use fresh apple cider for the best authentic flavor; you can substitute with apple juice if necessary but the flavor will be less robust.
- If you prefer a stronger cinnamon flavor, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top of the glaze before it sets.
- The pound cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Bring the cake to room temperature before serving if refrigerated to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American