The Perfect Apple Bundt Cake

Fall is the season of apples, and nothing captures the essence of this beautiful time of year quite like an Apple Bundt Cake. The moist texture, combined with the sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven, creates the perfect dessert for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. This cake brings together the best flavors of autumn in a single bite, making it a go-to recipe for both experienced bakers and beginners alike.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving a sweet treat, this Apple Bundt Cake is an ideal option. Best of all, it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home.

The Best Apples for Apple Bundt Cake

Not all apples are created equal when it comes to baking, and selecting the right kind of apple for your Apple Bundt Cake can make all the difference. For the best results, use apples that are firm and slightly tart, as these varieties hold their shape well during baking and balance the sweetness of the cake.

Some of the best apples for baking include:

Granny Smith: Known for their firm texture and tart flavor, these apples are a classic choice for apple cakes and pies.
Honeycrisp: These apples are juicy with a hint of sweetness, but they also have enough tartness to add complexity to your cake.
Jonagold: A great balance of sweet and tart, Jonagold apples work well in baked desserts due to their crisp texture.
Braeburn: These apples are both sweet and spicy, making them an excellent option for a flavorful Apple Bundt Cake.
Golden Delicious: While these apples are on the sweeter side, they still hold up well during baking and pair nicely with cinnamon and nutmeg.

If you have a mix of apples on hand, don’t hesitate to use a blend of these varieties for a more dynamic flavor profile. Using a combination of tart and sweet apples can create a perfectly balanced cake that will impress your guests.

Ingredients for the Perfect Apple Bundt Cake

Gathering all of your ingredients before starting is an essential step to ensure a smooth baking experience. Here’s what you’ll need for both the cake and the glaze:

For the Cake:

3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/4 cups (300ml) vegetable oil
1/2 cup (120g) plain yogurt or sour cream, at room temperature
1 1/4 cups (250g) packed brown sugar (light or dark)
1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
3 large eggs, at room temperature
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
3 cups (360g) peeled and chopped apples (about 2–3 large apples)

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

1 cup (200g) packed light or dark brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get started on making your Apple Bundt Cake from scratch. Each step is designed to make the process simple and enjoyable. Follow these instructions to ensure your cake turns out moist, flavorful, and perfectly baked.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 10-to-12-cup Bundt pan with nonstick spray or butter, ensuring easy removal once baked. Set the pan aside.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:

Flour
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Salt

These ingredients form the base of your cake, ensuring the right texture and balance of flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

Vegetable oil
Yogurt or sour cream
Brown sugar and granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract

Make sure the ingredients are well-combined. The use of oil and yogurt or sour cream in this recipe helps ensure the cake stays moist.

Step 4: Combine the Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, whisking gently until they are just combined. Avoid overmixing at this stage, which could result in a dense cake.

Step 5: Fold in the Apples

Fold in the chopped apples, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Apples not only add flavor and sweetness to the cake but also contribute to its moist texture. Depending on your preference, you can use more apples for a chunkier texture or less for a smoother bite.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth it out evenly. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 55 to 75 minutes, depending on your oven. Begin checking for doneness around the 55-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Step 7: Cool the Cake

Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 to 20 minutes. This cooling period helps the cake firm up slightly, making it easier to remove from the pan. After 20 minutes, carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack and let it cool completely before adding the glaze.

How to Make the Brown Sugar Glaze

The brown sugar glaze is the perfect finishing touch for this Apple Bundt Cake, adding a sweet and slightly caramelized flavor that pairs beautifully with the spiced apples. Here’s how to prepare it:

Ingredients for the Glaze:

1 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

Instructions:

In a medium saucepan, first combine the butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir continuously until the butter has fully melted and the mixture is well combined. Next, allow the mixture to come to a boil, then carefully reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1 minute. After that, remove the saucepan from the heat and whisk in the confectioners’ sugar. Continue whisking until the glaze becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Finally, let the glaze cool for a few minutes before drizzling it over the cooled cake. If needed, you can warm the glaze in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to loosen it up if it hardens too much.

How to Serve Apple Bundt Cake

Once your Apple Bundt Cake is fully glazed and cooled, it’s time to serve it. Here are some serving tips to make the most of this delicious dessert:

Room Temperature: This cake can be served at room temperature, where the flavors of the apples and spices really shine.
With Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent dessert, serve slices of the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cinnamon ice cream.
For Breakfast: This cake also makes a great breakfast or brunch option. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a comforting start to your day.

If you’re planning a gathering, you can also prepare individual mini Bundt cakes using a mini Bundt pan, making it easier to serve smaller portions to guests.

Storing and Freezing the Cake

One of the great things about this Apple Bundt Cake is how well it stores. You can make it ahead of time, enjoy it over a few days, or even freeze it for future enjoyment.

Storing at Room Temperature:

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Ensure the cake is fully cooled before storing it to avoid any moisture buildup, which could make the cake soggy.

Storing in the Refrigerator:

If you prefer to store the cake in the refrigerator, it will keep for up to 5 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. You can serve the cake cold, or let it come to room temperature before serving.

Freezing Instructions:

To freeze, wrap the cake (without the glaze) tightly in plastic wrap, then cover it with aluminum foil. You can store the cake in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight, then bring it to room temperature before glazing and serving.

For additional tips on how to preserve baked goods and fruits, you can also check out this guide on how to preserve peaches and pears.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different kinds of apples for this recipe?

Yes! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are recommended, you can experiment with other varieties like Jonagold or Braeburn for a slightly different flavor profile.

2. How do I prevent my Bundt cake from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to grease the Bundt pan thoroughly with nonstick spray or butter. You can also dust the greased pan with flour to help the cake release more easily.

3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend includes xanthan gum to help bind the ingredients together and maintain the cake’s structure.

4. How long does the cake last in the freezer?

The cake can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze the cake without the glaze and add the glaze once it’s thawed and ready to serve.

5. What can I substitute for the yogurt or sour cream?

If you don’t have yogurt or sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with buttermilk or even plain Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor.

Final Thoughts

An Apple Bundt Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining the classic flavors of apples, cinnamon, and brown sugar into a moist and delicious cake. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or simply enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to be a hit.

Additionally, with easy-to-follow instructions and ingredients that are simple to find, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. For extra baking tips, check out King Arthur’s Guide on Perfecting Bundt Cakes, or if you’re looking for more apple dessert ideas, Sally’s Baking Addiction’s Apple Recipe Collection is full of inspiration. And if you love seasonal treats, FoodSafety.gov’s Guidelines on Proper Storage will help keep your baked goods fresh.

So why wait? Grab your Bundt pan and start baking this fall favorite today!