Apple Fritter Cake

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This Apple Fritter Cake is the cozy, cinnamon-swirled treat that brings the best of bakery-style indulgence into your home kitchen. Each bite is soft, warm, and loaded with juicy apple chunks, rich brown sugar, and a sticky vanilla glaze that soaks into every delicious layer. If you’re craving the flavors of apple fritters but want something a little more shareable and oven-baked, this is your new go-to.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake delivers the nostalgic flavor of a country bakery—without the need for frying. It’s a comforting, sweet way to enjoy apples any time of year, and it’s especially beloved during the fall and winter months when cozy baking is in full swing.

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Why You’ll Love This Apple Fritter Cake

• No frying required – all the classic fritter taste, minus the mess.
• Perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar.
• Super moist and tender cake base thanks to sour cream and butter.
• Great for gatherings—it slices easily and feeds a crowd.
• Make-ahead friendly – stores well and reheats beautifully.

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What Kind of Apples Should I Use for Apple Fritter Cake?

For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of tart and sweet apples. Granny Smith provides a nice balance with its firmness and tanginess, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add natural sweetness. Mixing two varieties gives the cake more depth and prevents it from becoming overly sweet or mushy. Avoid Red Delicious or overly soft apples, as they don’t hold up well when baked.

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Ingredients for the Apple Fritter Cake

Each ingredient in this Apple Fritter Cake plays an essential role in achieving that signature moist texture and irresistible spiced flavor.

• Apples – The heart of the cake. Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for juicy bites that don’t fall apart.
• Granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake base and helps create the perfect crumb.
• Brown sugar – Adds moisture and rich caramel flavor, especially in the cinnamon swirl.
• Ground cinnamon – Infuses the cake with warm, comforting spice.
• All-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the cake soft and fluffy.
• Baking powder – Gives the cake its rise and light texture.
• Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
• Sour cream – Keeps the cake incredibly moist and adds a slight tang.
• Eggs – Bind the ingredients together and contribute to a tender crumb.
• Vanilla extract – Adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor profile.
• Butter – A must for richness and buttery goodness.
• Powdered sugar – Used for the glaze that soaks into the cake.
• Milk – Helps thin the glaze to the perfect pourable consistency.

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How To Make the Apple Fritter Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Mixture

Peel, core, and chop your apples. In a bowl, toss them with brown sugar and cinnamon. Set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

Cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream. Slowly incorporate the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) until smooth.

Step 3: Layer the Cake

In a greased baking dish, spread half the cake batter. Add half of the apple mixture. Repeat with the remaining batter and apples. Swirl lightly with a knife for a marbled effect.

Step 4: Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool slightly in the pan.

Step 5: Make the Glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the warm cake so it seeps into the top for extra sweetness.

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Serving and Storing Apple Fritter Cake

This Apple Fritter Cake is best served slightly warm, allowing the glaze to stay soft and gooey. It’s a delightful treat for brunch, breakfast, or an after-dinner dessert. One cake yields about 10 to 12 servings, making it ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or casual weekend baking.

To store leftovers, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring back that freshly-baked texture.

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What to Serve With Apple Fritter Cake?

Hot Coffee or Latte

The cinnamon and apple flavors pair beautifully with a strong cup of coffee or a creamy latte. It’s the ultimate café-style experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of vanilla ice cream on warm cake turns it into a luscious dessert you’ll crave again and again.

Maple-Glazed Bacon

For a sweet and savory twist at brunch, try pairing it with crispy bacon glazed in maple syrup.

Whipped Cream

A generous dollop of homemade whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess to balance the dense texture.

Chai Tea or Spiced Apple Cider

These warm beverages highlight the spiced notes of the cake and make for a comforting combo on cold days.

Greek Yogurt

For a lighter breakfast option, serve a slice alongside plain or vanilla Greek yogurt.

Fresh Berries

Brighten the plate with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to cut through the richness.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?
Yes, you can substitute with apple pie filling for convenience, but the texture will be softer and sweeter. Reduce the amount of added sugar in the recipe to balance the flavors.

Can I freeze Apple Fritter Cake?
Absolutely. Wrap the fully cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm slices in the microwave before serving.

What size pan should I use?
A standard 9×13-inch baking dish works best for this recipe. It allows for even baking and the perfect thickness for each layer.

Is this cake good for breakfast?
Yes! It’s rich and sweet but not too heavy, making it a lovely breakfast or brunch item, especially when paired with coffee or yogurt.

Can I make it the night before?
Yes, the cake holds up well overnight. Bake it ahead and store it covered at room temperature. Warm it briefly before serving if you prefer it hot.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 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 pecans or try a caramel drizzle?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other bake smarter.
For more delicious, cozy bakes like this one, follow me on Pinterest: Life With Livia Pinterest.

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Conclusion

This Apple Fritter Cake takes everything you love about a classic apple fritter and transforms it into a soft, oven-baked delight that’s easier to make and even easier to share. Whether you’re serving it at a weekend brunch, taking it to a holiday gathering, or simply enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, this cake is pure comfort in every bite.

So grab your apples, fire up the oven, and treat yourself to a bakery-style experience right at home. You deserve it!

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