Apple Bundt Cake has always been my ultimate comfort dessert, especially when the autumn air starts to bite. I remember my grandmother making this old fashioned apple bundt cake every Sunday; the house would fill with the most incredible aroma of cinnamon and baked apples, a scent that just screams cozy. This recipe is a simplified version of hers, an easy apple bundt cake that delivers that same incredible flavor without all the fuss. You’ll love how incredibly tender and moist apple bundt cake this turns out, with pockets of sweet apple and warm spice in every bite. It’s truly the best way to welcome fall into your kitchen. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Bundt Cake
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! It’s the perfect blend of sweet apples and warm spices that just screams comfort.
- Incredible Taste: Expect a wonderfully moist and tender crumb bursting with fresh apple flavor and fragrant cinnamon.
- Quick Prep Time: With just 20 minutes of prep, you can have this delicious dessert ready for the oven.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples, making it an affordable treat for any occasion.
- Family Favorite: This homemade apple bundt cake is a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will adore.
- Simple to Make: Even if you’re new to baking, this simple apple bundt cake comes together with ease.
- Versatile: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just a cozy afternoon treat.
- Deliciously Moist: You’ll never have to worry about a dry cake with this foolproof recipe.
Ingredients for the Best Apple Bundt Cake
Gathering these apple bundt cake ingredients is the first step to making a truly exceptional cake. This apple bundt cake recipe is designed for maximum flavor and moisture, and each component plays a vital role.
- 3 cups (about 400g) peeled and chopped apples – I love using Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a good balance of sweet and tart.
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar – This provides sweetness and helps create that tender crumb.
- 1 cup (240ml) neutral oil (vegetable or canola) – Using a neutral oil is key for a super moist apple bundt cake because it keeps the cake tender and prevents it from drying out, unlike butter which can sometimes make cakes a bit denser.
- 2 large eggs – These bind everything together and add richness.
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – The base of our cake structure.
- 1 tsp baking soda – Our leavening agent, crucial for a good rise.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon – This is where that warm, comforting spice comes in!
- 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavors.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Adds depth and a lovely aroma.
- 1 cup (120g) chopped nuts (optional – walnuts or pecans) – For a little crunch and extra flavor, if you like!
How to Make an Easy Apple Bundt Cake
Let’s dive into the simple steps for creating this incredibly delicious spiced apple bundt cake. You’ll be amazed at how straightforward it is to achieve such a wonderful result.
- Step 1: Prepare the Apples. Start by peeling and dicing your apples into small, bite-sized chunks. Aim for pieces that are about 1/2 inch; this size ensures they distribute evenly throughout the batter and bake perfectly. Set these aside for now.
- Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar, 1 cup (240ml) neutral oil, and 2 large eggs. Whisk everything together vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This forms the base of our cake batter.
- Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a separate bowl, sift together the 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp salt. Sifting helps to aerate the dry ingredients, preventing lumps and ensuring a lighter cake.
- Step 4: Make the Batter. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Then, fold in the prepared apples, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and the optional 1 cup (120g) chopped nuts. The batter will be thick and fragrant. This is a crucial step in how to make apple bundt cake that’s wonderfully moist.
- Step 5: Bake the Cake. Pour the batter evenly into a well-greased and floured Bundt pan. Make sure to get into all those nooks and crannies! Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the cake is a beautiful golden brown. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely divine.
- Step 6: Cool and Serve. Once baked, let the cake cool in the Bundt pan on a wire rack for about 10–15 minutes. This allows it to set slightly. Then, carefully invert the pan onto the wire rack to release the cake. Let it cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar or adding your favorite glaze, like an apple bundt cake with caramel.
Pro Tips for the Best Homemade Apple Bundt Cake
Achieving that perfect texture and flavor in your cake is all about a few key techniques. Follow these tips for a truly show-stopping dessert every time.
- Always use a good quality non-stick Bundt pan and grease it thoroughly with shortening or baking spray, then flour it well. This is crucial to prevent your beautiful cake from sticking.
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients. Stirring too much develops the gluten, which can lead to a tough cake instead of a tender one.
- Letting the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting is essential. It allows the cake to firm up just enough so it doesn’t break when you flip it.
What’s the secret to a perfect moist apple bundt cake?
The secret to a perfectly moist apple bundt cake lies in the oil-based batter and not overbaking. Using oil instead of butter keeps it tender, and ensuring you don’t bake it too long prevents that dreaded dry texture. This is how you avoid issues where why is my apple bundt cake dry.
Can I make this apple bundt cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before pouring it into the prepared pan, and you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with an apple bundt cake?
The most common pitfalls are the cake sticking to the pan or it being dry. To prevent sticking, generously grease and flour your Bundt pan. To ensure moisture, don’t overmix the batter and avoid overbaking; check for doneness early.
Best Ways to Serve Your Apple Bundt Cake
This beautiful cake is wonderful on its own, but a few simple additions can elevate your dessert experience even further. Think of it as the perfect canvas for delicious toppings!
- A Simple Drizzle: Sometimes, less is more! A dusting of powdered sugar is classic and elegant. For something a bit richer, a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a splash of milk or apple cider is fantastic. This creates a lovely apple bundt cake frosting that complements the cake’s spices perfectly.
- Warm Caramel Goodness: For an extra decadent treat, consider serving slices with a generous drizzle of warm caramel sauce. This pairing truly highlights the apple flavors and creates a delightful apple bundt cake with caramel that feels incredibly indulgent.
- Creamy Companions: A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream alongside a warm slice of this cake is pure bliss. The cool creaminess balances the warm spices and tender apples beautifully.
Nutrition Facts for Apple Bundt Cake
A slice of this delightful Apple Bundt Cake offers a satisfying treat. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, perfect for understanding what you’re enjoying.
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the type of apples or nuts chosen.
How to Store and Reheat Your Apple Bundt Cake
Keeping your delicious Apple Bundt Cake fresh is simple with these storage tips. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this delightful dessert for days to come. Let’s talk about the best apple bundt cake storage practices!
- Cool Completely: Before storing, ensure the cake has cooled down entirely. Storing a warm cake can create condensation, leading to sogginess.
- Room Temperature Storage: For short-term storage (up to 2 days), you can keep the cake at room temperature. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
- Refrigerator Storage: If you need to store it for longer, up to 3-4 days, the refrigerator is your best bet. Again, use an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other fridge odors.
- Freezer Storage: For long-term preservation, this cake freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, or place the whole cake in a freezer-safe container.
To reheat, gently warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or bake in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for a few minutes until warmed through. This keeps your cake tasting freshly baked!
Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Bundt Cake
What is an apple bundt cake?
An apple bundt cake is a classic cake baked in a distinctive ring-shaped Bundt pan. This particular recipe features fresh apples and warm spices like cinnamon, creating a moist, tender crumb. It’s a quintessential dessert, especially popular as an apple bundt cake for fall celebrations, offering a comforting and delicious flavor profile.
Why is my apple bundt cake dry?
A dry apple bundt cake often results from overbaking or using too little moisture in the batter. This recipe uses neutral oil and plenty of apples to ensure it stays wonderfully moist. Always check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking, which is a common reason why an apple bundt cake can turn out dry.
Can I use different types of apples in this cake?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are recommended for their texture and flavor balance, you can certainly experiment. Fuji, Gala, or even a mix of apples can work well. Just ensure they are peeled and chopped into similar-sized pieces for even baking throughout your homemade apple bundt cake.
What are some other apple bundt cake variations?
You can easily adapt this recipe! Try adding a handful of raisins or dried cranberries along with the apples for extra chewiness. For a richer flavor, consider a drizzle of caramel sauce after baking, making it an apple bundt cake with caramel. You could also swap some of the flour for almond flour for a nutty twist.
Variations of Apple Bundt Cake You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic apple bundt cake recipe, you’ll love experimenting with different twists to make it your own! These variations add unique flavors and textures, ensuring you can enjoy this classic dessert in exciting new ways.
- Gluten-Free Apple Bundt Cake: For those with dietary restrictions, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a good quality gluten-free baking blend. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum for structure. This creates a fantastic gluten-free apple bundt cake that’s just as moist and delicious.
- Apple Cinnamon Bundt Cake: Amp up the spice by adding an extra teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients. You can also incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a more complex flavor profile. This variation truly highlights the warm, comforting notes of an apple cinnamon bundt cake.
- Glazed Apple Bundt Cake: Elevate your cake with a simple yet elegant glaze. Whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar with 2-3 tablespoons of milk or apple cider until smooth. Drizzle this over your cooled cake for a beautiful finish and added sweetness, resulting in a delightful glazed apple bundt cake.
- Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Drizzle: For an extra layer of indulgence, warm up some store-bought or homemade caramel sauce and generously drizzle it over the top of your cooled cake. This creates a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.
Amazing Apple Bundt Cake: 1 Mistake Avoided
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Delicious Apple Bundt Cake is moist, tender, and packed with warm spices and fresh apples. Baked to golden perfection in a Bundt pan, it’s the perfect fall dessert for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family gatherings. Easy to make and even better the next day!
Ingredients
- 3 cups (about 400g) peeled and chopped apples
- 2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (240ml) neutral oil (vegetable or canola)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup (120g) chopped nuts (optional – walnuts or pecans)
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Peel and dice apples into small chunks. Set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together sugar, oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Make Batter: Gradually add dry ingredients into wet. Stir until just combined. Fold in apples, vanilla, and nuts.
- Bake: Pour batter into a greased and floured Bundt pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50–60 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Let cake cool in pan 10–15 minutes, then invert onto wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar or glaze.
Notes
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best results.
- Grease every corner of the Bundt pan well to prevent sticking.
- Do not overmix batter—stir until just combined.
- Let cake cool before slicing for the perfect texture.
- Variations: add raisins, swap in pears, or drizzle with caramel glaze.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice