The Ultimate Apple Bundt Cake Recipe: Moist, Spiced, and Perfect for Any Season
There’s something magical about the aroma of an Apple Bundt Cake baking in the oven – the warm blend of cinnamon and nutmeg dancing with sweet, tender apples creates an irresistible fragrance that transforms any house into a cozy home.
This isn’t just another apple cake recipe; it’s the kind of dessert that brings families together around the kitchen table, where every slice tells a story of comfort and love.
Whether you’re celebrating autumn’s bounty or simply craving a slice of homemade happiness, this perfectly spiced bundt cake delivers exceptional flavor and stunning presentation every single time.
Last fall, my neighbor knocked on my door with tears in her eyes, not from sadness, but from pure joy after tasting this very recipe. She’d been searching for the perfect apple cake to recreate her grandmother’s memory, and this one transported her right back to childhood Sunday dinners.
The secret lies in the perfect balance of two types of sugar, the addition of tangy yogurt for incredible moisture, and that generous tablespoon of vanilla that makes all the difference.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This apple bundt cake strikes the perfect balance between effortless preparation and impressive results. Unlike complicated layer cakes that require precise timing and delicate handling, this forgiving recipe comes together in one bowl and bakes beautifully in your trusty bundt pan. The combination of vegetable oil and yogurt creates an incredibly moist crumb that stays fresh for days, while the brown sugar glaze adds an elegant finishing touch that makes this cake worthy of your most special occasions.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility and reliability. I’ve made this cake countless times – for potluck dinners, birthday celebrations, and quiet Sunday afternoons – and it never fails to impress.
The warm spices complement the fresh apples beautifully, creating layers of flavor that develop even more as the cake sits. Explore more trending recipes here for additional inspiration that will keep your kitchen filled with delicious aromas all season long.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this spectacular apple bundt cake, organized by component for easy preparation:
| Main Cake Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (spooned & leveled) | 3 cups (375g) |
| Baking soda | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon | 3 teaspoons |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Vegetable oil | 1 and 1/4 cups (300ml) |
| Plain yogurt or sour cream (room temperature) | 1/2 cup (120g) |
| Packed light or dark brown sugar | 1 and 1/4 cups (250g) |
| Granulated sugar | 1/2 cup (100g) |
| Large eggs (room temperature) | 3 |
| Pure vanilla extract | 1 Tablespoon |
| Peeled and chopped apples | 3 cups (360g) |
| Brown Sugar Glaze | Amount |
|---|---|
| Packed light or dark brown sugar | 1 cup (200g) |
| Unsalted butter | 1/4 cup (4 Tbsp; 56g) |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup (120ml) |
| Confectioners’ sugar (sifted) | 1/2 cup (60g) |
Find more quick weeknight recipes here for additional family-friendly options that bring comfort and satisfaction to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions
Creating this spectacular Apple Bundt Cake is surprisingly straightforward when you follow these detailed instructions. The key to success lies in proper preparation and gentle mixing to achieve that perfectly tender, moist crumb everyone will rave about.
Step 1: Position your oven rack in the lower third and preheat to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 12-cup bundt pan with butter or baking spray, making sure to coat every ridge and crevice. Lightly dust with flour, tapping out the excess.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly combined. Set this dry mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: In another large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, room temperature yogurt, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined. The mixture should be glossy and uniform.
Step 4: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a rubber spatula until just barely combined. Don’t overmix – a few flour streaks are perfectly fine.
Step 5: Gently fold in the chopped apples, distributing them evenly throughout the batter. Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with an offset spatula.
Step 6: Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out with just a few moist crumbs. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack.
Step 7: For the glaze, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a boil, then remove from heat and whisk in the sifted confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Exact Timing to make Apple Bundt Cake
Total preparation and baking time for this Apple Bundt Cake is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, broken down as follows: 20 minutes for ingredient preparation and mixing, 65 minutes average baking time, 15 minutes cooling in the pan, 30 minutes additional cooling before glazing, and 15 minutes for glaze preparation and application. The remaining 25 minutes allows for final setting before serving, ensuring perfect slices every time.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional profile of your Apple Bundt Cake helps you enjoy this delicious treat as part of a balanced diet. Each generous slice provides essential nutrients from the fresh apples while delivering the comfort and satisfaction you crave.
| Nutrient | Per Slice (1/12 of cake) | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 485 | 24% |
| Total Fat | 18g | 23% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 55mg | 18% |
| Sodium | 220mg | 10% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 78g | 28% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 7% |
| Total Sugars | 58g | – |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Vitamin C | 3mg | 3% |
| Potassium | 145mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1.8mg | 10% |
The fresh apples contribute valuable antioxidants and fiber, while the yogurt provides probiotics and protein. The cinnamon offers anti-inflammatory properties, making this indulgent dessert a more nutritious choice than many traditional cakes.
Healthier Alternatives
Transform this classic Apple Bundt Cake into a more nutritious treat with these thoughtful ingredient swaps that maintain the incredible flavor while boosting the health benefits. These modifications allow you to enjoy this beloved dessert while accommodating various dietary preferences and nutritional goals.
| Original Ingredient | Healthier Alternative | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour (3 cups) | 2 cups all-purpose + 1 cup whole wheat pastry flour | Increases fiber and adds nutty flavor |
| Vegetable oil (1¼ cups) | ¾ cup unsweetened applesauce + ½ cup coconut oil | Reduces calories and adds natural sweetness |
| Brown sugar (1¼ cups) | ¾ cup coconut sugar + ½ cup pure maple syrup | Lower glycemic index and mineral content |
| Granulated sugar (½ cup) | ⅓ cup stevia blend or monk fruit sweetener | Significantly reduces calories and carbs |
| Regular yogurt (½ cup) | Greek yogurt (½ cup) | Doubles protein content and probiotics |
| 3 whole eggs | 2 whole eggs + 2 egg whites | Reduces cholesterol while maintaining structure |
| Heavy cream in glaze | Cashew cream or coconut cream | Dairy-free option with healthy fats |
For those following specific dietary plans, consider these additional modifications: use almond flour for keto-friendly versions, substitute flax eggs for vegan adaptations, or add chopped walnuts for extra omega-3 fatty acids. Find more healthy dessert ideas here to discover additional nutritious treats that satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising your wellness goals.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile Apple Bundt Cake shines in numerous serving scenarios, from elegant dinner parties to casual family gatherings. Serve warm slices with a dollop of vanilla Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a lighter dessert option, or pair with premium vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted pecans for an indulgent treat that guests will remember long after the last bite.
For special occasions, elevate your presentation by dusting individual plates with cinnamon before placing cake slices, then garnish with thin apple slices that have been quickly sautéed in butter and brown sugar. The cake also pairs beautifully with hot beverages – serve alongside freshly brewed coffee, spiced chai tea, or warm apple cider to create a cozy atmosphere that celebrates the season’s finest flavors.
Consider offering this cake as the centerpiece of a fall dessert table, surrounded by complementary treats like caramel apples, pumpkin cookies, and spiced nuts. The stunning bundt shape creates visual appeal that makes any gathering feel more special and thoughtfully planned.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
The most frequent error when making Apple Bundt Cake is inadequately preparing the bundt pan, which can result in heartbreaking sticking issues when you attempt to remove the cake. Always use both butter or baking spray AND a light dusting of flour, paying special attention to the intricate ridges and center tube where sticking commonly occurs.
Overmixing the batter ranks as the second most critical mistake, leading to tough, dense cake instead of the tender, moist crumb this recipe promises. Once you add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mix only until just combined – visible flour streaks are perfectly acceptable and will disappear during baking.
Rushing the cooling process frequently causes cakes to break apart when removed from the pan. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for exactly 15 minutes before inverting – this timing ensures the cake has set enough to hold its shape while still being warm enough to release properly from the pan’s surface.
Storing Tips
Proper storage extends the life of your Apple Bundt Cake while maintaining its exceptional moisture and flavor. Store the completely cooled cake at room temperature, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or covered with a cake dome, for up to 4 days. The cake actually improves in flavor after the first day as the spices meld and develop deeper complexity.
For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices at room temperature for 30 minutes, or warm briefly in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore that fresh-from-the-oven appeal. Avoid refrigerating the cake unless your kitchen is exceptionally warm, as refrigeration can dry out the texture.
If you’ve applied the brown sugar glaze, allow it to set completely before covering the cake to prevent the covering from sticking to the glaze. Store glazed cake portions in airtight containers with parchment paper between layers to maintain the beautiful presentation when serving leftover slices.
FAQs
Can I make Apple Bundt Cake ahead of time for special events?
Absolutely! This Apple Bundt Cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert that actually improves in flavor when prepared 1-2 days before serving. Bake the cake completely, allow it to cool, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Wait to apply the brown sugar glaze until the day of serving for the best appearance and texture. This timing allows the spices to meld beautifully while ensuring your cake looks fresh and elegant.
What’s the best type of apple to use in Apple Bundt Cake?
For the perfect Apple Bundt Cake, choose firm apples that hold their shape during baking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn varieties. Granny Smith apples provide a nice tart contrast to the sweet cake, while Honeycrisp offers natural sweetness and excellent texture. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious or McIntosh, as they can break down during baking and create mushy pockets in your finished cake.
Why is my Apple Bundt Cake dense instead of light and fluffy?
A dense Apple Bundt Cake typically results from overmixing the batter or using ingredients that aren’t at room temperature. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, creating a tough texture, while cold ingredients don’t combine properly, leading to uneven mixing. Ensure your eggs and yogurt are at room temperature before mixing, and fold the wet and dry ingredients together just until barely combined for the lightest possible texture.
How do I prevent my Apple Bundt Cake from sticking to the pan?
Preventing sticking is crucial for a beautiful Apple Bundt Cake presentation. Use a high-quality bundt pan and prepare it thoroughly by greasing every ridge and crevice with butter or baking spray, then dusting with flour and tapping out the excess. Some bakers swear by making a paste of equal parts butter, flour, and vegetable shortening to brush into intricate bundt pan details. Always cool the cake for exactly 15 minutes before inverting – this timing is critical for proper release.
Apple Bundt Cake
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 1 bundt cake (serves 12) 1x
Description
This Ultimate Apple Bundt Cake is irresistibly moist, tender, and bursting with warm fall spices. Fresh apples, brown sugar, yogurt, and a luscious brown sugar glaze come together to create a showstopping dessert perfect for any season.
Ingredients
- Main Cake Ingredients:
- 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, room temperature
- 1 1/4 cups (250g) packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 3 cups (360g) peeled and chopped apples
- Brown Sugar Glaze:
- 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar, sifted
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Position oven rack in the lower third and preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 12-cup bundt pan with butter or baking spray, then dust with flour, tapping out the excess.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly combined. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, yogurt, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy.
- Combine Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and fold gently with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Apples: Fold in the chopped apples evenly throughout the batter. Pour into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
- Bake: Bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with only a few moist crumbs. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack.
- Make the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir until it boils, then remove from heat and whisk in confectioners’ sugar until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Notes
For best results, use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Honeycrisp and Fuji. This cake keeps moist for several days when stored covered at room temperature. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy weekends.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: apple bundt cake, moist apple cake, fall dessert, spiced cake, brown sugar glaze
