Maple Bacon Apple Cake Recipe

The Maple Bacon Apple Cake is a spectacular treat that brings together the sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors in perfect harmony. This cake marries crisp bacon bits with tender applesauce and a blend of warm spices, all wrapped up in a moist, fluffy cake crowned with a luscious maple-bacon cream cheese frosting. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of contrasts and comfort that’s sure to become one of your all-time favorites. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving something uniquely delicious, the Maple Bacon Apple Cake promises layers of flavor that will enchant every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients, each playing a vital role in creating the cake’s distinctive taste and texture. The combination of sweet applesauce, smoky bacon, fragrant spices, and the velvety richness of cream cheese and maple syrup makes this cake a true masterpiece.

• Bacon (1/2 pound cooked crisp): Adds a smoky crunch and depth of flavor that sets this cake apart.
• Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens the cake batter perfectly without overpowering.
• Vegetable oil (1 cup): Keeps the cake moist with a tender crumb.
• Applesauce (2 cups chunky preferred): Brings moisture, subtle sweetness, and texture from the fruit chunks.
• Large eggs (4): Provide structure and richness to the batter.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the other flavors with aromatic warmth.
• Maple syrup (2 tablespoons): Infuses that signature sweet maple taste into the cake.
• All-purpose flour (2 cups): The base of the cake giving it the perfect density and structure.
• Baking powder (2 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise beautifully and become fluffy.
• Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Works alongside baking powder for lift and texture.
• Ground cinnamon (2 teaspoons): Adds warm spice notes essential to the apple cake.
• Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): A hint of zesty spiciness that’s subtle but impactful.
• Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a cozy spice that complements the apples and bacon.
• Cream cheese, softened (3 packages of 8 ounces each): Used both in the cheesecake layer and frosting for creamy richness.
• Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): Sweetens the cheesecake layer gently.
• Maple syrup (1/4 cup plus 1-2 tablespoons): Incorporated throughout for layered maple flavor.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): Whipped to add lightness to the cheesecake filling.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Adds smooth richness to the frosting.
• Powdered sugar (4 cups): Gives the frosting that silky, spreadable texture.

How to Make Maple Bacon Apple Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon and Cake Pans

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by spraying them with non-stick spray and lining the bottoms with parchment paper circles. Next, cook one pound of bacon until it’s crispy—you’ll use half for the cake and half for the frosting. Drain the grease, pat dry, and finely chop or pulse the bacon in a food processor until the pieces are tiny. This smoky crunch will infuse the cake with irresistible flavor.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients and Incorporate Dry

In a large bowl, combine granulated sugar, vegetable oil, chunky applesauce, eggs, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Whisk these together until smooth and glossy. Then, in a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, folding in half of the finely chopped bacon. Stir just until everything is combined – this helps keep the texture light and fluffy without overworking the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Slide them into the preheated oven and bake for 37 to 45 minutes, checking at the 40-minute mark with a toothpick. When the toothpick comes out clean, your cake layers are done! Let them cool in the pans for about 30 minutes to an hour before carefully running a knife around the edges to loosen them for removal. Level the tops of the cakes to keep your final layered cake perfectly even.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheesecake Layer

Beat together softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup granulated sugar with a handheld mixer until smooth and creamy. Stir in 1/4 cup maple syrup. In a separate bowl or stand mixer, whip the heavy cream until just thick. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and airy. Pour this cheesecake batter into a sprayed 9-inch cake pan lined with parchment and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight for the best set, followed by 20 minutes in the freezer before assembling.

Step 5: Make the Maple Bacon Frosting

Beat together unsalted butter and 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until light and fluffy. Slowly add powdered sugar, about a cup at a time, until it reaches a spreadable frosting consistency. Stir in the remaining half pound of cooked bacon pieces along with 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup for that glorious smoky-sweet finish.

Step 6: Assemble the Maple Bacon Apple Cake

Start your assembly by placing one cake layer, top side down, on a cake plate. Spread a thin layer of frosting to help the cheesecake layer stick, then gently place the chilled cheesecake layer on top. Trim any overhang for a neat look. Add another light frosting layer atop the cheesecake, then crown the cake with the second cake layer, top side down. Finish by frosting the top and sides with the remaining maple bacon frosting, smoothing or swirling as you like for a beautiful presentation.

How to Serve Maple Bacon Apple Cake

Garnishes

When serving the Maple Bacon Apple Cake, think of garnishes that enhance its rich flavors and add a little sparkle. Fresh apple slices dusted with cinnamon, a drizzle of pure maple syrup, or a few whole candied bacon strips can elevate each slice and make your guests’ eyes light up. These touches bring color and an extra layer of sensory delight.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with simple sides that complement without competing. A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream provides creaminess, while a cup of chilled apple cider or a robust black coffee can contrast and enhance the cake’s spicy sweet notes. A fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette can also offer a refreshing balance, especially if you’re serving the cake after a rich meal.

Creative Ways to Present

You can play with the presentation by serving the Maple Bacon Apple Cake as individual mini cakes or cake truffles, perfect for parties. Slice it into squares for a rustic dessert platter, adding a dusting of powdered sugar or edible flowers for pizazz. For a stunning centerpiece, stack the layers with fresh flowers or crispy bacon strips artfully placed atop.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this decadent cake keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making each slice even more delightful the next day. Just be sure to keep it covered well to protect the frosting and prevent drying out.

Freezing

If you want to make the Maple Bacon Apple Cake in advance, it freezes well. Wrap each cake layer tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. The cheesecake layer should be frozen separately in its pan or wrapped tightly to maintain texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before assembling and frosting for the freshest result.

Reheating

This cake is best served chilled or at room temperature, especially because of the cream cheese frosting and cheesecake layer. However, if you prefer it slightly warm, unwrap a slice and warm it gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds—just enough to release those maple aromas without melting the frosting completely.

FAQs

Can I use regular apples instead of applesauce in the Maple Bacon Apple Cake?

Using chunky applesauce is key in this recipe for moisture and texture, but finely chopped fresh apples can be used if you prefer more bite and fruitiness. Just make sure to adjust moisture by reducing some oil slightly.

Is it necessary to include bacon in both the cake and frosting?

The bacon in the cake batter adds subtle smoky undertones, while the bacon in the frosting provides crunch and a bold flavor contrast. Including bacon in both layers enhances the signature character of the Maple Bacon Apple Cake, though you could reduce amounts if you prefer milder smokiness.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Be sure it contains xanthan gum or add some yourself for proper structure. The rest of the ingredients naturally do not contain gluten.

How long does it take to assemble the cake after baking?

Assembly is fairly quick once all components are ready — about 15 to 20 minutes. However, plan ahead as the cheesecake layer needs chilling for several hours or overnight before assembly for the best results.

Can I omit the spices if I don’t like cinnamon or cloves?

The warm spices add such a lovely depth to the Maple Bacon Apple Cake, but if you prefer a simpler flavor, you can reduce or omit them. Your cake will still be delicious, especially with the maple syrup and bacon providing strong flavor notes.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to treat yourself or impress your friends with something truly special, the Maple Bacon Apple Cake is the answer. Its unique blend of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors makes every bite an adventure, and the creamy layers take it to the next level. Give this recipe a try—you might just be handing down your new favorite dessert for years to come!

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