Cradling a warm mug in hand, this Apple Bundt Cake feels like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a crisp autumn morning. Sweet brown sugar swirls through the tender crumb, while plump apple pieces promise bursts of juicy flavor in every bite. Whether you’re gathering around for a casual coffee break or surprising loved ones with a heartfelt dessert, this cake brings out all the best fall flavors. With a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg dancing through the batter, your kitchen will fill with an irresistible scent that beckons friends and family to the table. It’s the kind of cake that makes you pause, take a deep breath, and smile as you watch the golden top form in the oven. Best of all, this recipe is rated Beginner difficulty, so you can whip it up even if you’re new to baking. Preparation takes just about 30 minutes, baking around 60–70 minutes, and then a short 15-minute rest before you reveal that beautiful bundt shape. Each slice clocks in at roughly 450 calories, making it an indulgent but totally worthwhile treat.
This moist and flavorful Apple Bundt Cake is a dessert masterpiece that’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday meals, or simply a cozy night in. The bundt pan gives it those signature ridges, creating extra surface area for a light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple vanilla glaze that clings to every curve. You’ll love how the sour cream adds tenderness to the crumb, while a balanced blend of all-purpose flour, sugars, and a touch of vanilla extract elevates the overall sweetness. Nut lovers can toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for an optional crunch—that’s your call! From the first forkful to the last, this homemade treat feels like a warm hug on a plate. And trust me: letting it sit overnight only deepens the flavors, so if you can wait, it’s worth the temptation.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN APPLE BUNDT CAKE
Before you dive into the mixing bowls, let’s talk about the stars of this recipe. Each ingredient plays a specific role in creating that tender, flavorful crumb and balancing sweetness with spice. Understanding why we use each item will help you feel confident and perhaps even inspire you to add your own twist!
- All-purpose flour
Provides the structure of the cake. Its moderate protein content helps develop just enough gluten for a tender crumb without toughness.
- Granulated sugar
Sweetens the batter uniformly and assists in creating a fine, delicate texture by dissolving evenly throughout.
- Brown sugar
Adds moisture and depth of flavor thanks to its molasses content, lending a subtle caramel note that pairs perfectly with apples.
- Vegetable oil
Keeps the cake moist and gives it a soft, tender mouthfeel. Its neutral flavor lets the spices and apple pieces shine.
- Unsalted butter (melted)
Contributes richness and a creamy texture. Using unsalted butter helps you control the salt level precisely.
- Eggs
Bind the ingredients together, trap air, and contribute to the cake’s lift. Four large eggs ensure a stable, light structure.
- Sour cream
Adds moistness and a slight tang, balancing the sweetness and making the crumb exceptionally tender.
- Vanilla extract
Enhances overall flavor by rounding out the sweetness and accentuating the warm spices.
- Baking powder
Acts as a leavening agent that helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- Baking soda
Works in tandem with the baking powder and acidic sour cream to create lift and a tender texture.
- Salt
Balances the sweetness and intensifies other flavors, preventing the cake from tasting flat.
- Ground cinnamon
Infuses the batter with classic warm spice notes that complement the apples beautifully.
- Ground nutmeg
Adds a subtle earthy warmth, rounding out the spice profile.
- Chopped apples
Provide juicy pockets of fresh fruit throughout the cake. Using a mix of tart and sweet apple varieties enhances complexity.
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Offer a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that contrasts with the soft crumb.
HOW TO MAKE APPLE BUNDT CAKE
Now that our ingredients are prepped and measured, it’s time to bring everything together. Follow these steps closely to achieve a beautifully domed bundt cake with tender crumb and evenly distributed apple chunks.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan generously with butter or non-stick spray. Proper greasing ensures your cake releases easily once baked.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk them briefly to distribute the leaveners and spices evenly.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, melted butter, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until the mixture is completely smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful to avoid overmixing, which can lead to a dense, gummy cake.
5. Fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using) with a gentle hand, ensuring they are evenly distributed without deflating the batter.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, using a spatula to smooth the top and remove any air pockets around the edges.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a wire rack and let it cool completely.
9. Once cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple glaze for an extra touch of sweetness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR APPLE BUNDT CAKE
Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving or a humble afternoon tea, this Apple Bundt Cake can be dressed up to fit any occasion. Its classic bundt shape creates a stunning centerpiece, and each slice reveals luscious pockets of apple that look as beautiful as they taste. When serving, think about texture contrasts and complementary flavors. A scoop of ice cream adds creamy coolness, while a dusting of sugar or a warm sauce brings sweet elegance. Coffee, tea, or even a hot apple cider can make your presentation feel extra special. Below are four delightful ways to serve your cake with style and flair.
- Classic powdered sugar finish: Lightly sift powdered sugar over the cooled cake so it settles into every groove. This simple touch adds visual appeal and a hint of sweetness without overpowering the apple flavor.
- Vanilla ice cream pairing: Serve a warm slice alongside a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream mingles with the cake, creating a luscious, temperature-contrast dessert that’s hard to resist.
- Whipped cream crown: Pipe or dollop freshly whipped cream flavored with a dash of cinnamon on each slice. The airy cream complements the cake’s density and reinforces the warm spice notes.
- Caramel drizzle: Warm a simple caramel sauce and gently drizzle it over the top of each slice right before serving. The buttery, gooey sauce intensifies the brown sugar flavors in the cake.
HOW TO STORE APPLE BUNDT CAKE
After you’ve enjoyed a few slices, you’ll want to keep the rest fresh and moist. Proper storage is key to preserving that tender crumb and juicy apple pockets for days to come. Whether you store at room temperature, refrigerate, or even freeze, follow these tips to maintain maximum flavor and texture. Avoid exposure to air, which can dry out the cake, and be mindful of temperature changes that might cause condensation.
- Store at room temperature: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 2 days without losing moisture.
- Refrigeration: If your kitchen is warm or you’ve topped the cake with a glaze, store it in the fridge in a sealed cake keeper or container. This method extends freshness for up to 5 days—just bring slices to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing for longer storage: Slice the cake, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or in the fridge overnight.
- Reheating tips: For a just-baked taste, warm slices in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–8 minutes or in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This revives the cake’s soft texture and enhances the apple’s juiciness.
CONCLUSION
This Apple Bundt Cake recipe brings together simple pantry staples and fresh apples to create a dessert that’s nothing short of magical. From the first step of greasing your Bundt pan to the final dusting of powdered sugar, every moment in the kitchen is infused with warmth and anticipation. Whether you’re a baking novice or a seasoned home cook, the clear instructions—rated Beginner difficulty—make the process approachable and rewarding. You’ll love how the tender crumb, flavored with cinnamon and nutmeg, pairs perfectly with the juicy pockets of apple. Don’t forget that letting the cake rest overnight deepens those flavors even further, turning each slice into a delightfully complex experience. As you gather around the table, watch smiles bloom as everyone takes that first forkful. Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder for safe keeping. You’ll also find an FAQ below to answer any questions you might have.
If you give this cozy Apple Bundt Cake a try, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you mix up a few apple varieties? How did you garnish it—simple powdered sugar or an indulgent caramel drizzle? Drop a comment, share your feedback, or ask any questions if you need help along the way. Your insights and stories inspire me and fellow bakers, so don’t be shy—let’s keep the conversation going and celebrate every slice of sweetness together!
Apple Bundt Cake
Description
This moist and flavorful Apple Bundt Cake is packed with tender apples, a hint of cinnamon, and topped with a light dusting of powdered sugar. Perfect for gatherings or a sweet treat at home.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a Bundt pan generously with butter or non-stick spray.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, melted butter, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Avoid overmixing.
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Fold in the chopped apples and nuts (if using) until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
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Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
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Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
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Once cooled, you can dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze if desired.
Note
- For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of apple pie spice instead of just cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Mixing a few different apple varieties can enhance the texture and flavor complexities of the cake.
- Letting the cake sit overnight enhances the flavors, making it taste even better the next day.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
