Apple Bundt Cake Recipe: There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of warm apples and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. If you’re craving a cozy, sweet treat that captures the essence of fall—or really, any time of year—an Apple Bundt Cake is the way to go. With its moist texture, chunks of juicy apple, and rich spices, this cake is both a showstopper and a heart-warmer.
But don’t let the fancy shape fool you. This cake may look impressive, but it’s surprisingly easy to make—even for beginners. Whether you’re baking for a family get-together, a holiday dessert table, or just because, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step by step.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Bundt Cake
- Flavor-packed: Every bite bursts with cinnamon-spiced apples and a touch of vanilla.
- Moist and fluffy: Thanks to a perfect balance of fat, moisture, and fruit.
- Great for any season: Apples are available year-round, making this a go-to recipe anytime.
- Easy to make: No fancy mixers or complicated steps.
- Versatile: Works great with or without glaze, nuts, or extra spices.
What is a Bundt Cake?
Before diving into the recipe, let’s clear up what exactly a Bundt cake is. It’s not a specific flavor—it’s all about the pan. Bundt cakes are baked in a round pan with a hole in the center, which creates a beautiful ring shape. These pans also have grooved edges, giving your cake a decorative finish straight out of the oven—no piping or decorating skills needed.
Why the shape? It helps distribute heat evenly, so your cake bakes perfectly throughout. The result? A moist center with a slightly crispy exterior. And when it comes to apple cake, that golden crust plus soft, fruity center is a total win.
List of Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break this down into easy categories so you can double-check your pantry.
Fresh Ingredients
- 3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and chopped (use firm, sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream (or full-fat plain Greek yogurt)
Pantry Staples
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (adds crunch!)
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
- Glaze (see glaze section below)
Tools and Equipment Needed
Having the right tools makes baking so much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bundt cake pan (10-12 cup capacity)
- Mixing bowls (at least two: one for wet, one for dry)
- Electric hand mixer or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Apple peeler or paring knife
- Cooling rack
- Toothpick (for doneness testing)
Choosing the Right Apples for Baking
Not all apples are created equal when it comes to baking. You want apples that hold their shape and offer a balance of sweetness and tartness. Here are a few great choices:
| Apple Type | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Granny Smith | Tart, crisp | Firm, holds shape |
| Honeycrisp | Sweet-tart, juicy | Crisp, holds shape |
| Braeburn | Slightly sweet | Dense, doesn’t break down |
| Fuji | Very sweet | Softer, still holds okay |
| Pink Lady | Balanced sweet-tart | Crisp and juicy |
Pro tip: Use a mix of apples for a more complex flavor!
Prepping Your Apples: Peeling, Coring & Chopping
This step may feel tedious, but it makes all the difference. Here’s how to do it efficiently:
- Peel the apples using a vegetable peeler or paring knife. This removes the waxy skin which can become chewy.
- Core the apples with an apple corer or cut them into quarters and remove the seeds manually.
- Chop into small, even cubes—not too tiny, not too big. About ½-inch pieces are perfect.
Consistency is key here. Uniform pieces ensure even distribution in the batter and baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Apple Bundt Cake
Let’s walk through the actual baking process. Take it step by step, and you’ll nail it!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prep the Pan
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, generously grease your Bundt pan with butter or baking spray. Don’t forget the grooves! You can also dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together:
- 2 ½ cups flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
Set this mixture aside for now.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 cup butter and 1 ¾ cups sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–5 minutes). This step is crucial—it creates air pockets that make your cake light.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each one. Then mix in 2 tsp vanilla extract. Your batter should look smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Alternate adding your dry ingredients and 1 cup sour cream to the creamed mixture. Start and end with the dry. Don’t overmix—just blend until incorporated.
Step 6: Fold in the Apples and Optional Add-ins
Use a spatula to gently fold in the chopped apples. If you’re adding nuts or raisins, toss them in now. Make sure they’re evenly spread throughout the batter.
Step 7: Pour Batter into Bundt Pan
Scoop your thick batter into the prepared pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top and gently tap the pan on the counter to remove any air pockets.
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Place the pan on the center rack and bake for 55–65 minutes. Test with a toothpick—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 9: Cool the Cake Properly
Let the cake rest in the pan for 15–20 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a cooling rack. Let it cool completely before glazing or serving.
Making the Optional Glaze or Topping
Once your Apple Bundt Cake is completely cooled, it’s time to decide how you want to finish it off. You can enjoy it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or go all-out with a sweet glaze or streusel topping. Here are some easy ideas:
Simple Vanilla Glaze
This glaze adds just the right touch of sweetness and shine.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tbsp milk or cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth.
- Adjust consistency with more milk if needed. It should be pourable but not runny.
- Drizzle over the cooled cake using a spoon or piping bag.
Caramel Drizzle (for fall vibes!)
If you want something a bit more indulgent, caramel is the way to go.
Quick Caramel Sauce:
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Heat all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat until bubbly and thickened. Let it cool slightly, then pour over the cake.
Tip: Always glaze your cake on a wire rack with parchment paper underneath for easy cleanup!
Serving Suggestions
Apple Bundt Cake is incredibly versatile. Here’s how to serve it to make an impression:
- With whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
- Warm it up slightly before serving for that fresh-out-of-the-oven experience.
- Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Slice it for brunch or a holiday breakfast spread—it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Want to get fancy? Add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a few thin apple slices on the plate for decoration.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Bundt Cake
Here are some tried-and-true baking tips to guarantee success every time:
- Use room temperature ingredients. This helps everything mix smoothly and evenly.
- Don’t overmix. Mix just until combined to keep the cake soft and tender.
- Flour your add-ins. Toss apples or nuts in a little flour before folding in. It helps prevent them from sinking.
- Check early. Ovens vary, so start checking for doneness at the 55-minute mark.
- Cool completely before glazing. Warm cake will melt the glaze and make it runny.
Baking is part art, part science—but a lot of love. Don’t rush the process and enjoy each step!
How to Store Your Cake
This cake stores beautifully, which makes it great for making ahead.
- Room temperature: Keep covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 5–6 days. Let slices come to room temp before serving for best flavor.
- Reheat: Pop individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to refresh them.
Can You Freeze Apple Bundt Cake?
Absolutely! Freezing this cake is easy and keeps it fresh for later enjoyment.
Here’s how:
- Cool the cake completely.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. This prevents freezer burn.
- Label and date it.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight or leave it on the counter for a few hours. Add glaze after thawing for best results.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced bakers slip up sometimes! Here’s what to watch out for:
- Forgetting to grease the pan properly. This leads to sticking—use butter or spray and dust with flour.
- Cutting the apples too big or too small. Uneven pieces can lead to an inconsistent bake.
- Opening the oven too early. It causes the cake to fall. Resist the urge until at least 50 minutes in.
- Overbaking. A dry cake is a sad cake. Check early and remove as soon as the toothpick comes out clean.
- Adding glaze to a hot cake. It will melt right off. Patience is key!
Avoid these common traps, and your cake will be a masterpiece.
FAQs about Apple Bundt Cake Recipe
1. Can I use apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?
It’s not recommended for this recipe. Apple pie filling is too soft and sweet, and it can change the texture of the cake. Fresh apples give the best flavor and bite.
2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.
3. What’s the best way to prevent the cake from sticking to the Bundt pan?
Use a non-stick Bundt pan, grease it generously with butter or baking spray, and lightly dust with flour. Make sure to get into every crevice.
4. How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Insert a toothpick into the thickest part of the cake. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs—not wet batter.
5. Can I make this ahead for a party or holiday?
Definitely! This cake tastes even better the next day. Bake it a day in advance and store covered at room temperature or in the fridge.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Bundt Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a memory in the making. Whether you’re whipping it up for a holiday, a family gathering, or simply to fill your home with the warm scent of cinnamon and apples, this cake is sure to become a go-to favorite.
With its perfect balance of texture, flavor, and stunning presentation, it’s the kind of cake that looks as good as it tastes. And now that you have a complete step-by-step guide, you’re ready to bake it like a pro.
So grab those apples, preheat the oven, and let’s get baking!
