Fresh Apple Bundt Cake Recipe

Name: Fresh Apple Bundt Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 1 tablespoon white sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 3 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 cups white sugar; 1 cup vegetable oil; ¼ cup orange juice; 2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 4 eggs; 1 cup chopped walnuts; ¼ cup confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)

There’s nothing quite as comforting as the smell of apples, cinnamon, and vanilla wafting through the kitchen. If you’re looking for a dessert that embodies the warmth of fall and the sweetness of fresh apples, this Fresh Apple Bundt Cake is the perfect recipe for you. With a moist and tender crumb, spiced apples, and crunchy walnuts, this cake is an absolute showstopper for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just indulging in a quiet evening treat.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this delectable cake, discuss its history, and offer some tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

The History of Bundt Cakes

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a quick look at the history of Bundt cakes. The Bundt cake’s distinctive ring shape comes from a special pan, called a Bundt pan, which was inspired by traditional European cakes like the Gugelhupf, a ring-shaped cake popular in Germany and Austria. The Bundt pan was created in the United States in the 1950s by H. David Dalquist, who named it “Bundt” after the German word “bund,” which means a gathering or association.

Since then, Bundt cakes have become incredibly popular in American baking, thanks to their unique shape that allows for even baking and a beautifully presentable cake without much effort.

Ingredients You Will Need

The ingredients for this Fresh Apple Bundt Cake are straightforward and easy to find. Most are pantry staples that you likely already have at home. Let’s take a look:

For the Cake:

2 cups apples – Peeled, cored, and diced

1 tablespoon white sugar – For coating the apples
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – For that warm, spiced apple flavor
3 cups all-purpose flour – The base of the cake batter

3 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy
½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor
2 cups white sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture to the cake

1 cup vegetable oil – Keeps the cake tender and moist
¼ cup orange juice – Adds a subtle citrusy note and moisture
2 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract – Provides a deep, rich flavor

4 eggs – The binder for the batter
1 cup chopped walnuts – Adds a delightful crunch to the cake

For the Topping:

¼ cup confectioners’ sugar – A light dusting to give the cake an elegant finish

Step-by-Step Directions for Fresh Apple Bundt Cake

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of baking this delicious cake. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced baker — this recipe is easy to follow and yields incredible results.

1. Prepare the Apples

Start by prepping your apples. Peel, core, and dice them into small, bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, combine the diced apples with 1 tablespoon of white sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Toss them together until the apple pieces are evenly coated with the sugar and cinnamon. This will give the apples a delicious, sweet, and spicy flavor that will enhance the overall taste of the cake. Set aside.

2. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt or tube pan. Make sure the entire surface of the pan is well-greased and lightly floured to prevent the cake from sticking.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 3 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Sifting the dry ingredients helps to aerate the flour and ensures that the baking powder and salt are evenly distributed throughout the cake.

4. Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of white sugar, 1 cup of vegetable oil, ¼ cup of orange juice, 2 ½ teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 4 eggs. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture at high speed until smooth and fully combined. This step is important as it helps to incorporate air into the batter, which will make the cake light and fluffy.

5. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can cause the cake to become tough. Once the batter is smooth, gently fold in 1 cup of chopped walnuts for a bit of texture and crunch.

6. Layer the Batter and Apples

Pour one-third of the batter into the prepared Bundt pan. Then, sprinkle half of the apple mixture over the batter. Repeat this process, alternating between layers of batter and apples, ending with a layer of batter on top.

7. Bake the Cake

Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55 to 60 minutes. To test if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center — if it comes out clean, the cake is ready. The top should spring back when lightly touched.

8. Cool and Serve

Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Afterward, turn the cake out onto a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, sprinkle the cake with ¼ cup of confectioners’ sugar for a decorative and sweet finish.

Tips for the Perfect Fresh Apple Bundt Cake

1. Use Fresh Apples

The key to this cake’s flavor is the use of fresh, ripe apples. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work well in this recipe because they hold their shape when baked and offer a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

When combining the wet and dry ingredients, make sure to stir until just combined. Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense, tough cake instead of the light, tender crumb you’re aiming for.

3. Grease the Pan Thoroughly

Bundt pans have intricate designs that can make it easy for the cake to stick. Be sure to grease and flour your pan well, getting into all the nooks and crannies to ensure a smooth release.

4. Let the Cake Cool

Resist the temptation to cut into the cake right away. Allowing the cake to cool in the pan and then on a wire rack helps it set properly, and the flavors will develop as it cools.

Why Fresh Apple Bundt Cake Is a Must-Try Dessert

This Fresh Apple Bundt Cake is the perfect combination of fruity sweetness, warm cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts, all wrapped up in a moist, tender cake. The layers of spiced apples create pockets of juicy flavor throughout, while the orange juice adds a bright, citrusy note that elevates the overall taste.

It’s a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether it’s served at a holiday gathering, a Sunday brunch, or a casual weeknight dessert, this cake is sure to impress your guests.

FAQ: Fresh Apple Bundt Cake

1. Can I Use a Different Type of Nut?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of walnuts, you can substitute them with pecans, almonds, or even leave the nuts out entirely. The cake will still be delicious without the nuts.

2. Can I Freeze the Cake?

Absolutely! Once the cake is fully cooled, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

3. What Other Fruits Can I Use?

If apples aren’t in season or you want to try something different, pears or peaches are great alternatives. They provide a similar texture and flavor when baked.

4. How Can I Store Leftovers?

Store the leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week, but make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

5. Can I Make This Cake Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best results in terms of texture.

Enjoy baking this delightful Fresh Apple Bundt Cake, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and toppings to make it your own!