Apple Bundt Cake

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Nothing says fall like the warm scent of cinnamon and baked apples filling your kitchen. This Apple Bundt Cake is the perfect cozy dessert to welcome sweater weather, with its soft, buttery crumb and rich apple-caramel filling baked right into every bite. It’s an irresistible balance of sweet and spiced flavors that tastes just as comforting as it looks.

Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or enjoying it with a cup of tea by the fire, this cake is sure to become a seasonal favorite. It’s moist, tender, and packed with juicy apple chunks and a decadent caramel glaze that makes each slice feel like a warm hug.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Bundt Cake

This Apple Bundt Cake stands out for its ease and elegance. It looks impressive on any dessert table, yet it’s surprisingly simple to make. You don’t need any fancy equipment or tricky techniques — just one Bundt pan and your favorite apples.

The combination of warm spices and gooey caramel makes this a standout dessert that feels both nostalgic and indulgent. And because it stores well, it’s great for making ahead or gifting during the holidays.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

For the best texture and flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples. Granny Smith offers a crisp bite and tartness that balances the rich caramel and sugar in the batter. Combine them with a sweeter variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji to create a flavorful, multidimensional filling. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious, which can become mushy during baking.

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Ingredients for the Apple Bundt Cake

Each ingredient in this Apple Bundt Cake brings something essential to the flavor, texture, or structure of the final bake.

• All-purpose flour: This forms the base of the cake, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a golden, caramelized crust.
• Brown sugar: Brings a deep, molasses flavor that complements the apples and spices.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, creating that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Eggs: Provide structure and help the cake rise properly.
• Sour cream: Contributes to a moist, dense crumb and a slight tang that balances sweetness.
• Baking powder & baking soda: These leavening agents help the cake rise beautifully.
• Cinnamon & nutmeg: Classic fall spices that add warmth and depth.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Apples (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp): The stars of the show, they offer both tartness and natural sweetness.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Caramel sauce: Poured over the finished cake for a glossy, gooey finish.

How To Make the Apple Bundt Cake

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Grease a Bundt pan generously with butter or non-stick spray, making sure to get into all the grooves. Lightly dust with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a separate bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air for a light texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mix until fully combined.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with sour cream. Mix until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Apples

Gently fold in chopped apples until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Fill and Bake

Spoon half of the batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Add a layer of caramel drizzle, then top with the remaining batter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack. Once cooled, pour warm caramel sauce over the top.

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How to Serve and Store Apple Bundt Cake

This cake serves 10 to 12 people, making it ideal for gatherings, holidays, or a weekend treat that lasts a few days. To serve, slice it thick and drizzle with extra caramel or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent finish.

To store, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or keep it in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. Let it come to room temperature before serving, or warm slightly for that fresh-from-the-oven taste.

What to Serve With Apple Bundt Cake?

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

Cold, creamy ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm spices and caramel in the cake.

Whipped Cream

Light and airy, whipped cream balances the richness of the cake without overpowering it.

Spiced Chai or Hot Apple Cider

A cozy drink like chai tea or cider enhances the warm fall flavors of the dessert.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

It might sound unusual, but the salty sharpness of cheddar adds a delightful contrast to the sweet cake.

Coffee or Espresso

A strong brew brings out the deeper notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and caramel.

Fresh Apple Slices

Serve with fresh apple slices to brighten the plate and reinforce the cake’s key ingredient.

Salted Caramel Sauce

Add an extra drizzle of salted caramel sauce just before serving for an indulgent finish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pan instead of a Bundt pan?
Yes, but a Bundt pan gives this cake its signature shape and allows for even baking. If you use a loaf or round pan, adjust baking times accordingly and keep an eye on doneness.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. This cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge.

What are the best apples for baking?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji are excellent for baking because they hold their shape and offer a balance of tart and sweet flavors.

Can I skip the caramel glaze?
Yes, the cake will still be delicious on its own or with a dusting of powdered sugar. But the caramel glaze adds a beautiful finish and extra indulgence.

Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat slightly in the microwave.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add liqueur or leave it out? Did you try chocolate on top?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.
Find more recipes like this on my Life With Livia Pinterest.

Conclusion

This Apple Bundt Cake brings the essence of fall into your kitchen with every warm, caramel-drizzled bite. It’s an easy, elegant dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to holiday parties. With just a few pantry staples and fresh apples, you can create a show-stopping cake that’s as comforting as it is crowd-pleasing.

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