Apple Bundt Cake

There’s something so nostalgic about the smell of apples, cinnamon, and sugar baking away in the oven. This Apple Bundt Cake brings all those cozy, fall-inspired flavors into one beautiful cake that’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or even just a quiet weekend treat.

Homemade apple bundt cake dusted with powdered sugar.

With tender chunks of apple, warm spices, and a perfectly moist crumb, this cake feels like a warm hug from the kitchen. The best part? It comes together with simple pantry staples and is completely beginner-friendly—no fancy techniques required.

Recipe Info

FieldInfo
CategoryDessert / Cake
Prep Time20 minutes
Cook Time55–65 minutes
Servings12 servings
Calories~320 kcal per serving

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 3 cups peeled and diced apples (about 3 medium apples)
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Step-By-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven
    Heat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan, making sure to coat all the grooves well.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients
    In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. Combine wet ingredients
    In a large mixing bowl, beat together sugar, oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth and well combined.
  4. Bring it all together
    Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. The batter will be thick.
  5. Fold in apples (and nuts if using)
    Gently stir in the diced apples and walnuts/pecans until evenly distributed.
  6. Fill the pan
    Spoon the batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  7. Bake
    Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool & serve
    Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully invert onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Helpful Notes & Tips

  • Apple choice matters: Tart apples like Granny Smith hold their shape well, while sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji add extra natural sweetness.
  • Don’t overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
  • Storage: Keep covered at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. This cake also freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.

Recipe Variations

  • Caramel Drizzle: Pour warm caramel sauce over the cooled cake for an extra indulgent finish.
  • Lighter version: Swap half the oil for unsweetened applesauce for a lighter but still moist cake.
  • Spiced twist: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for deeper fall flavor.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  • Dust with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
  • Pair with hot coffee, apple cider, or spiced tea for the coziest experience.

Conclusion

This Apple Bundt Cake is the kind of dessert that brings comfort and joy to any table. It’s simple, sweet, and filled with the flavors of fall—perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring with a quiet cup of tea. Bake it once, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.