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There is something wonderfully comforting about a homemade Apple Bundt Cake Recipe that just fills your kitchen with the warm, inviting scents of cinnamon and fresh apples. This moist, tender cake combines the sweet-tartness of finely chopped apples with cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, baked to golden perfection in a classic bundt pan. Whether you’re making it for a casual family dessert or a special occasion, this cake delivers a deliciously homey touch that never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Apple Bundt Cake Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the flavor, texture, and inviting aroma that make this cake truly irresistible.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise beautifully and stay light.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon: The heartwarming spice that gives the cake its signature fall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle depth and warmth.
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and rich without heaviness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Provides balanced sweetness with a slight caramel note.
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar: Adds extra moisture and a hint of molasses flavor.
- 3 large eggs: Bind everything together and give the cake body.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its warm, sweet aroma.
- 3 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): The star ingredient, adding natural sweetness and juiciness.
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Offer a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.
How to Make Apple Bundt Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Thoroughly grease a 10-inch bundt pan with butter and flour or a nonstick spray. This ensures that the cake releases easily after baking, preserving its lovely shape.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. This combination lays the flavor foundation while making sure the leavening is evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients
In a separate large bowl, mix the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This rich blend of sugars and oil guarantees a moist and flavorful cake.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and tender.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in the finely chopped apples and, if using, the chopped walnuts or pecans. This step distributes juicy apple chunks and crunchy nuts evenly, ensuring every bite has a delicious surprise.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Place it in the oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This slow baking encourages the flavors to deepen and the texture to become beautifully moist.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze (Optional)
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then carefully invert onto a wire rack to cool completely. If you want to add a glossy finish, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract to create a simple glaze, then drizzle it over the cooled cake for a sweet final touch.
How to Serve Apple Bundt Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A dusting of powdered sugar, a handful of chopped nuts, or a light drizzle of the optional vanilla glaze enhances the cake’s appearance and adds extra flavor. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon can also bring a charming, seasonal touch.
Side Dishes
Apple Bundt Cake Recipe pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance its warm spices and sweet apples. For a brunch option, serve alongside a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea to complement its cozy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake and serving it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for extra texture. You can also layer slices between whipped cream and fresh fruit for a unique trifle-style dessert everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your Apple Bundt Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep it fresh and moist. If it lasts longer, refrigerate but bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
This Apple Bundt Cake Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To revive the cake’s moistness and fresh-baked feel, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or gently heat the whole cake in a low oven (around 300°F) covered in foil for 10-15 minutes.
FAQs
Can I substitute the apples in this recipe?
Yes! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices for their tartness and texture, you can substitute with other firm apples like Fuji or Braeburn. Just be sure to peel and finely chop them to maintain the cake’s moist texture.
Is it necessary to add nuts to this Apple Bundt Cake Recipe?
Nuts are optional but highly recommended for added crunch and flavor contrast. If you have nut allergies or prefer not to use them, feel free to skip or swap for dried cranberries or raisins to add a different kind of sweetness and texture.
How long does the apple bundt cake stay moist?
This cake actually improves if you let it rest overnight; the flavors meld and the moisture evens out beautifully. Stored properly, it will remain moist and delicious for up to three days at room temperature, or longer if refrigerated.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture, and expect a slightly different crumb but still a delightful cake.
What’s the best way to cut a bundt cake?
Use a serrated knife and cut slowly with gentle sawing motions to avoid tearing the cake. Start by slicing the cake into halves or quarters, then cut those sections into smaller wedges for serving.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the cozy warmth and perfect balance of flavors in this Apple Bundt Cake Recipe to bring comfort and joy to your table. Whether shared with family or gifted to friends, it’s a reminder that simple ingredients and a bit of care can create truly magical desserts. I hope you give this recipe a try soon — it might just become your new fall favorite!
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Apple Bundt Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Apple Bundt Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert featuring a perfect blend of cinnamon-spiced batter and tender chopped apples. Enhanced with optional walnuts or pecans and topped with a smooth vanilla glaze, this classic American cake is ideal for fall gatherings and cozy teatimes.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Main Add-ins
- 3 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Glaze (Optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly with butter and dust with flour or use a nonstick spray to ensure the cake releases easily after baking.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until well mixed to evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In another large bowl, combine vegetable oil, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat these ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and fully blended.
- Incorporate Dry into Wet: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.
- Add Apples and Nuts: Fold in the finely chopped apples and, if using, the chopped walnuts or pecans evenly throughout the batter.
- Fill Bundt Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top so it bakes uniformly.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack and let it cool completely before glazing.
- Prepare the Glaze (Optional): Whisk together powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract until smooth to create the glaze. Drizzle this over the cooled cake for added sweetness and shine.
Notes
- This cake improves in flavor and moisture when stored overnight before serving.
- You can substitute the nuts with raisins or dried cranberries for a different variation.
