Spiced Apple Bundt Cake

Spiced Apple Cake is a warm and comforting dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every bite. Made with fresh, tender apples and a blend of aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this cake is as fragrant as it is flavorful. The moist, buttery crumb pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the apples, while optional add-ins like chopped nuts or raisins add texture and depth. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream takes this cake to the next level, making it an ideal treat for cozy gatherings or holiday celebrations.

One of my favorite fall flavors is apple cinnamon. Sweet, juicy apples and warm cinnamon are the perfect way to celebrate fall. I developed this cake as a riff on a traditional pound cake and an alternative apple pie. The first time I made it, this cake was a hit. It didn’t last a day!

This isn’t just any apple cake—it’s a spiced, fruity masterpiece that combines the warmth of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove with the richness of buttermilk and fresh apples to deliver a moist, melt-in-your-mouth dessert. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering or simply because autumn flavors are too good to resist, this recipe guarantees pure bliss. And don’t skimp on the quality ingredients—your taste buds will thank you. One slice and you’ll be hooked. Go ahead, indulge—this is apple spice therapy at its finest! Get ready to wow your taste buds with a cake that’s as comforting as it is delicious!

Cake Ingredients

• – All-Purpose Flour: The base of this cake, provides structure and texture. Be sure to measure accurately for the best results.

• – Butter: Softened unsalted butter adds richness and enhances the cake’s flavor.

• – Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the cake and helps create a tender crumb. Feel free to substitute Brown sugar for a more caramel-like flavor.

• – Eggs: Essential for structure and moisture, ensuring the cake holds together well.

• – Buttermilk: Adds a slight tang and helps keep the cake incredibly moist.

• – Apples: Fresh, chopped apples provide natural sweetness and texture. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best for their balance of tartness and sweetness as well as their ability to keep a slightly firmer texture when baked.

• – Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Clove, and Ginger: These warm spices bring out the comforting flavors of the apples.

• – Vanilla Extract: Enhances the depth of flavor in the cake.

• – Baking Soda: Acts as a leavening agent to help the cake rise properly.

• – Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.

Cake Recipe Tips

• – Use fresh, high-quality apples: Fresh apples provide the best texture and flavor. Avoid using canned or pre-packaged apple pie filling.

• – Do not overmix: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.

• – Let the cake cool completely: Allowing the cake to cool before adding icing ensures the glaze doesn’t melt off.

Spiced Apple Bundt Cake

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Bundt Pan

1. – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. – Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or use non-stick spray to ensure easy release after baking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. – In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and apple pie spice. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. – In a large mixing bowl, use a stand mixer or hand mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

1. – Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.

1. – Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

1. – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.

Step 6: Add the Chopped Apples

1. – Gently fold in the chopped Granny Smith apples using a silicone spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

1. – Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly.

1. – Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

1. – Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional

Step 9: Make and Drizzle the Glaze

1. – In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, cinnamon, and heavy cream (or whole milk) until smooth and well combined.

1. – Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top of the Bundt cake.

Step 10: Serve

Slice and enjoy the sweet, spiced apple flavor of the cake!