Spring has arrived, and it’s the perfect time to add some fruity sweetness to your cooking and baking game! Apple cider is a versatile ingredient that can be used to add a unique twist to your dishes. Here are two baking recipes and two cooking recipes that will make your taste buds dance with delight.

Baking Recipes:

  1. Cider Glazed Carrot Cake: This delicious twist on classic carrot cake adds the sweet and tangy flavor of apple cider to create a moist and delicious dessert. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9-inch cake pan. In a bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. In another bowl, combine 1 cup of sugar, 1/2 cup of vegetable oil, 1/2 cup of apple cider, and 2 eggs. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients, then fold in 1 cup of shredded carrots. Pour the batter into the cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. For the glaze, mix 1/2 cup of apple cider and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar in a small bowl, then drizzle over the cooled cake.
  2. Cider Baked Apples: This simple recipe is a perfect way to showcase the natural sweetness of fresh spring apples. Preheat your oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish. Core 4 apples and place them in the baking dish. In a small bowl, mix 1/2 cup of apple cider, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Spoon the mixture into the centers of the apples, then bake for 25-30 minutes, until the apples are tender.
  3. Cider Donuts: Who doesn’t love a good donut? These cider-infused delights are the perfect way to start your day or indulge in a sweet treat. To make them, mix 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg in a bowl. In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of melted butter, 1/2 cup of apple cider, and 1 beaten egg. Gradually stir in the dry ingredients until a dough forms. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/2 inch thickness, then use a donut cutter or biscuit cutter to cut out the donuts. Heat vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 375°F, then carefully fry the donuts until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate, then mix together 1/2 cup of sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Roll each donut in the cinnamon sugar mixture until coated. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Recipes:

  1. Cider Glazed Pork Chops: This savory recipe is perfect for a spring dinner party or family meal. Season 4 pork chops with salt and pepper, then sear them in a hot skillet. In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of apple cider, 1/4 cup of Dijon mustard, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Pour the mixture over the pork chops, then transfer the skillet to a 375°F oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, until the pork is cooked through.
  2. Cider Glazed Carrots: These glazed carrots are a perfect side dish for any spring meal. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 1 pound of baby carrots and sauté for 5 minutes. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of apple cider, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Pour the mixture over the carrots, then cover the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the carrots are tender.