If you’re searching for a dessert that wraps up the warm, cozy essence of fall in every bite, this Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine tender chunks of tart Granny Smith apples bathed in a moist, spiced cake, then generously drizzled with a rich, buttery caramel glaze that pools perfectly over the classic bundt shape. It’s a celebration of textures and flavors that’s irresistibly comforting and delightfully elegant all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe keeps things simple but flavorful by combining pantry staples with fresh, vibrant ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, moisture, and spice.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps keep the cake tender.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and gives it a soft crumb.
- Vanilla extract: Introduces warm, aromatic notes that enhance all other flavors.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and richness.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the cake, delivering structure and texture.
- Baking soda: The leavening agent that helps the cake rise beautifully.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings a warm, spicy punch that complements the apples perfectly.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
- Granny Smith apples: Tart and firm for a fresh, tangy contrast inside the cake.
- Unsalted butter: The base of the caramel glaze for richness and creaminess.
- Heavy cream: Smooths out the caramel glaze, making it luscious and silky.
- Light brown sugar: Adds a deeper, molasses-like sweetness to the glaze.
- Extra vanilla extract: Finishes the caramel glaze with a lovely floral note.
How to Make Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-cup bundt pan meticulously – every nook and cranny matters here to ensure your cake will release like a dream once baked.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs until the mixture is silky smooth. This combination sets the stage for a moist and flavorful cake.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir the flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt together. Slowly add these dry ingredients into your wet mix, stirring gently to keep the batter light and fluffy without overmixing.
Step 4: Fold in the Apples
Gently fold the diced Granny Smith apples into the batter, making sure they’re distributed evenly. These apples add a wonderful texture and just the right amount of tartness that cuts through the sweetness of the cake.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan and spread it out evenly. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, cool the cake in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Caramel Glaze
While the cake cools, melt the butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Add the heavy cream, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt, stirring constantly until everything is combined. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract for that final aromatic touch.
Step 7: Glaze the Cake
Drizzle the warm caramel glaze generously over your cooled cake, letting the silky sauce cascade down the sides of the bundt. This caramel touch transforms the cake into an irresistible showstopper.
Step 8: Slice and Enjoy
Serve slices at room temperature or slightly warmed to get the fullest flavor of this Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe. Each bite melts in your mouth with the perfect harmony of spiced apples and decadent caramel.
How to Serve Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted chopped pecans or walnuts makes a fantastic crunchy contrast, while a dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant, snowy finish. Fresh apple slices or a dollop of whipped cream can also brighten up your presentation and taste.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with warm spiced beverages like chai tea or a pumpkin spice latte. For a more indulgent twist, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or crème fraîche to amplify the creamy, comforting flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe into a festive centerpiece by serving it on a rustic wooden board surrounded by autumn leaves or cinnamon sticks. For a party, slice the cake into bite-sized morsels and serve with a side of caramel sauce for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to two days or wrap tightly and refrigerate. The moistness will last, and the caramel glaze will stay lush and sticky.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover slices by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They freeze well for up to three months and thaw quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake warm again, simply microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds or heat in a low-temperature oven. The caramel glaze will soften and ooze just like fresh, making every bite heavenly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in this Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tart balance, you can substitute with Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter, juicier bite. Just ensure the apples are firm to avoid mushy texture in the cake.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend that’s designed for baking. Keep in mind that texture might vary slightly, but the flavor will still be delightful.
Can I make the caramel glaze ahead of time?
Definitely. Prepare the caramel glaze up to two days in advance, store it in the fridge, and gently warm it on the stove before pouring it over the cake. Stir well to recombine any separated ingredients.
What’s the best way to prevent the bundt cake from sticking to the pan?
Greasing the pan thoroughly and then dusting it with flour is key. For an extra layer of insurance, you can also use a baking spray that contains flour designed for cakes. This ensures your bundt releases perfectly every time.
Can this cake be served warm or does it need to cool completely?
The cake is delicious either way. Serving it slightly warm lets the caramel glaze be extra gooey, while serving at room temperature helps the flavors meld beautifully. Choose what you prefer!
Final Thoughts
This Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe is an absolute treasure that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Whether it’s a casual family dessert or a stunning centerpiece for the holidays, it never fails to impress. Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back to it time and time again because nothing beats the cozy comfort of apples, cinnamon, and caramel all in one unforgettable cake.
Print
Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delicious Apple Bundt Cake combines tender cake layers with fresh diced Granny Smith apples and a rich caramel glaze. Perfectly spiced with cinnamon and baked to golden perfection, it offers a moist, flavorful dessert ideal for gatherings or a comforting treat any time of year.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced (about 3 medium apples)
Caramel Glaze
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-cup bundt pan thoroughly, making sure every corner is coated to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Whisk the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Apples: Carefully fold the peeled and diced Granny Smith apples into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout. Then pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan.
- Bake the Cake: Place the bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before carefully turning it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare Caramel Glaze: While the cake cools, melt the unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream, light brown sugar, and a pinch of salt until combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes while stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Glaze the Cake: Pour the warm caramel glaze over the cooled bundt cake, allowing it to drip beautifully down the sides.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 12 servings and serve at room temperature or slightly warm for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy your apple bundt cake!
Notes
- Use Granny Smith apples for a tart contrast that holds up well during baking.
- Ensure the bundt pan is well greased and floured to avoid sticking.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to keep the cake tender.
- Allow the cake to cool before glazing to prevent glaze from melting too much and running off.
- Store leftover cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
