If you’re on the hunt for a wonderfully cozy dessert that brings together the crispness of fresh apples and the comforting warmth of cinnamon, you have to try this Apple Bundt Cake Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of moist cake, tender fruit, and a touch of nutty crunch that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering, afternoon tea, or just because the day calls for something sweet, this cake hits all the right notes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to this Apple Bundt Cake Recipe’s incredible flavor and texture lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a tender crumb, moist interior, and that signature golden color that makes this cake irresistible.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the cake’s structure, ensuring a soft but sturdy crumb.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise to light and fluffy perfection.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note that harmonizes beautifully with the apples.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides the right amount of sweetness without overpowering the fruit.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses-like depth and moisture to the batter.
- 3 large eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s richness.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake wonderfully moist and tender.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor with its sweet, aromatic essence.
- 2 cups diced Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples: Fresh and crisp, these apples add juicy pockets of flavor throughout the cake.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty contrast that pairs perfectly with the soft cake.
How to Make Apple Bundt Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, generously grease your bundt pan to ensure the cake releases easily after baking. This step is key to achieving that perfect, picture-worthy cake shape.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Combining these ingredients upfront ensures even distribution of flavors and rise throughout your Apple Bundt Cake Recipe.
Step 3: Blend Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the vegetable oil and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. This mixture will lend the cake its rich and moist texture.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Avoid overmixing at this stage to keep your cake tender and light.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold the diced apples and, if you’re using them, the chopped pecans or walnuts into the batter. This is where your Apple Bundt Cake Recipe truly comes alive with bursts of apple flavor and delightful crunch.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared bundt pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is perfectly cooked.
Step 7: Cool and Unmold
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps it set up and prevents breakage when you turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Apple Bundt Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your Apple Bundt Cake Recipe with a dusting of powdered sugar creates an elegant touch, while a drizzle of caramel sauce adds a luscious sweetness that complements the tart apples. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can also bring a fresh and inviting look to your presentation.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, bringing creamy contrast to the spicy, fruity flavors. For a heartier spread, consider serving alongside a hot cup of cinnamon-spiced tea or coffee to enhance the warmth of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not slice the cake into chunks and create an apple cake parfait layered with yogurt and granola? Or, serve warm slices topped with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream and a maple pecan drizzle for an indulgent treat. These playful ideas turn the humble Apple Bundt Cake Recipe into an unforgettable dessert experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, you can store your leftover Apple Bundt Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and flavorful, making it easy to enjoy a slice whenever a craving hits.
Freezing
If you want to save your cake for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before popping it into the freezer. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices in a microwave for about 20 seconds or warm an entire cake gently in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. This simple step revives the cozy flavors and moist crumb of your Apple Bundt Cake Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this cake?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are preferred for their balance of tartness and sweetness, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn apples. Just keep in mind their moisture content as some apples may make the cake wetter.
Is it necessary to add nuts to the Apple Bundt Cake Recipe?
Nuts are completely optional but highly recommended for a textural contrast. If you or your guests have allergies or don’t enjoy nuts, you can simply leave them out without affecting the flavor much.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can make a delicious gluten-free version. Just be sure to check that your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom?
Coating the diced apples lightly with flour before folding them into the batter helps keep them evenly distributed. Additionally, folding gently and pouring the batter evenly into the pan can minimize sinking.
Can this cake be made vegan?
With some modifications, yes! Replace eggs with flaxseed or chia eggs, use a plant-based oil, and swap sugars where needed for vegan-friendly versions. The texture might vary slightly, but the apple and spice flavors will still shine.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Bundt Cake Recipe is one of those timeless desserts that feels like a warm embrace from the inside out. It’s approachable, satisfying, and versatile enough to dress up or down depending on the occasion. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a new staple in your baking repertoire—your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you every time.
Print
Apple Bundt Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delightful Apple Bundt Cake combines tender chunks of tart Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples with warm cinnamon and a moist, spiced batter. Perfectly baked in a bundt pan for an elegant presentation, this cake offers a delicious blend of sweet and nutty flavors, enhanced with optional pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Wet Ingredients
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Add-ins
- 2 cups diced Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples (about 2 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until evenly combined.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, then add the vegetable oil and vanilla extract, mixing well to blend.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients bowl and stir gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain cake tenderness.
- Fold in apples and nuts: Gently fold the diced apples and optional nuts into the batter to evenly distribute these additions without breaking the fruit pieces.
- Fill bundt pan and bake: Transfer the batter into the greased bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Ensure apples are diced uniformly for even distribution and baking.
- For a nuttier flavor, substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts if preferred.
- Test cake doneness near 55 minutes to avoid overbaking which can dry the cake.
- Grease the bundt pan well using butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Serve plain, or dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze for extra sweetness.
