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Maple Bacon Apple Cake Recipe

Maple Bacon Apple Cake Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 24 reviews

This Maple Bacon Apple Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the smoky crispiness of bacon with the sweetness of apples and maple syrup. Featuring moist apple-infused layers studded with crispy bacon bits and topped with a creamy maple-bacon frosting and a luscious cheesecake layer, this cake offers a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors that will delight any crowd.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake

  • 1/2 pound bacon, cooked crisp
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 cups chunky applesauce
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Cheesecake Layer

  • 3 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Frosting

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1/2 pound bacon, cooked crisp

Instructions

  1. Prepare Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Spray two 9-inch round cake pans with non-stick cooking spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper circles to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook and Prep Bacon: Cook 1 pound of bacon until crispy using your preferred method. Divide it into two halves, one for the cake and one for the frosting. Drain excess grease and pat dry with paper towels. Chop into pieces, then pulse in a food processor to finely dice the bacon for incorporation.
  3. Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, eggs, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and half of the finely chopped bacon. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and gently stir until combined. Be careful not to over-mix to keep the batter smooth and tender.
  4. Bake Cake Layers: Evenly divide the batter into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 37 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool in pans for 30 to 60 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen and then remove the cakes from pans. Level the tops of the cakes with a cake leveler or serrated knife.
  5. Prepare Cheesecake Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth using a hand mixer. Add maple syrup and mix well. Separately, whip the heavy cream until thick peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and creamy.
  6. Chill Cheesecake: Spray a 9-inch cake pan with non-stick spray and line the bottom with parchment paper. Pour the cheesecake batter evenly into the pan and smooth the top. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, then freeze for 20 minutes before assembling to firm up the layer.
  7. Make Frosting: Beat the unsalted butter and cream cheese together until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing continuously until frosting consistency is achieved. Stir in remaining cooked bacon pieces and maple syrup until evenly combined.
  8. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer top side down on a cake plate. Spread a small amount of frosting evenly over the cake. Carefully place the chilled cheesecake layer on top, trimming any excess cheesecake so edges are even. Spread a thin layer of frosting on the cheesecake, then top with the second cake layer, also top side down. Finish frosting the entire cake as desired, using the remaining frosting to cover the sides and top.
  9. Serve: Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Slice and enjoy the unique combination of sweet maple, tart apple, creamy cheesecake, and savory bacon flavors.

Notes

  • For best results, use chunky applesauce for added texture in the cake batter.
  • Ensure bacon is well-drained and patted dry before processing to avoid excess grease in the batter and frosting.
  • Do not over-mix the batter as this can toughen the cake texture.
  • The cheesecake layer needs sufficient chilling time to firm up; plan accordingly.
  • Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cake removal from pans.
  • This cake serves about 12 people and is perfect for brunch or special occasions.
  • Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days covered tightly.

Nutrition

Keywords: maple bacon cake, apple cake, bacon dessert, cheesecake layer cake, maple syrup cake

Find it online: https://nayabaker.com/maple-bacon-apple-cake-recipe/