Caramel Apple Bundt Cake is a delightful fall-inspired dessert that captures the essence of cozy gatherings and sweet memories. The combination of tart apples and rich caramel creates a treat that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. I remember the first time I baked this cake, and the aroma filled my home, instantly evoking a sense of warmth and nostalgia. This cake isn’t just visually appealing; it’s packed with flavor and texture that make every bite memorable.
Why Make This Recipe
You’ll adore this Caramel Apple Bundt Cake not only for its inviting looks but also for its delicious flavors. It’s an uncomplicated yet impressive dessert that can elevate any meal, making it a great choice for both casual weeknight dinners and festive Thanksgiving feasts.
This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also uses everyday ingredients, ensuring it’s budget-friendly. The combination of sugar, applesauce, and apples ensures the cake stays wonderfully moist. One reviewer raved, “This cake is a game changer at our family gatherings! Everyone asked for the recipe.”
Step-by-Step Overview
This recipe for Caramel Apple Bundt Cake comes together in a few straightforward steps. Begin by preparing your ingredients, then mix them as guided. The batter will be rich and fragrant, with the diced apples adding a delightful texture. The process is quick, and soon you’ll have a warm cake baking in your oven, filling the kitchen with that irresistible apple-cinnamon aroma.
Gather These Items
To create this delicious dessert, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced tart apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
Feel free to substitute the nuts with your favorite kind or leave them out entirely if you want a nut-free version.
How to Prepare It
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Add the unsweetened applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture, and whisk well until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts if you are using them.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, ensuring it is spread evenly.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- For the caramel glaze, combine a non-alcoholic alternative to bourbon and powdered sugar in a saucepan over low heat. Stir until the mixture is blended and smooth.
- Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the caramel glaze over the bundt cake and serve.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving your Caramel Apple Bundt Cake, the options are endless. You might serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side, allowing the ice cream to melt slightly into the cake. Another delightful idea is to dust extra powdered sugar on top for a beautiful presentation, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for an added touch of warmth and flavor. Pair it with a cup of coffee or a glass of warm apple cider for an ultimate cozy experience.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
Storing your Caramel Apple Bundt Cake is simple. If you have leftovers, allow the cake to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or store it in an airtight container. It will typically last for up to five days at room temperature. If you want to keep it longer, freeze slices in separate bags, and it will last for about three months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Pro Chef Tips
Here are a few helpful cooking tips to make your Caramel Apple Bundt Cake even more successful:
- Ensure your eggs and applesauce are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter.
- Don’t skip greasing the bundt pan thoroughly; this ensures easy removal and a beautiful presentation.
- The key to moist cake is not overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Experiment with different types of apples. While Granny Smith adds tartness, varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala can bring extra sweetness.
Creative Twists
Here are some fun variations to try with your Caramel Apple Bundt Cake:
- For a spice twist, consider adding a pinch of cardamom or allspice to the dry ingredients.
- Substitute some of the apples with pears for a delightful flavor combination.
- Use a flavored glaze, such as maple syrup or chocolate, to put a different spin on the traditional caramel option.
- Consider adding raisins or cranberries for a fruity surprise in every bite.
FAQs
Q1: What is the prep time and cook time for this cake?
A1: The prep time is approximately 20 minutes, and the cook time is 55-60 minutes.
Q2: Can I use unsweetened apple butter instead of applesauce?
A2: Yes! Unsweetened apple butter works well as an excellent substitute for applesauce, adding moisture and flavor.
Q3: Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
A3: Absolutely! You can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
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Indulge in this cozy, comforting dessert, and let it warm both your kitchen and your heart!
Caramel Apple Bundt Cake
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup brown sugar
- 0.5 cup vegetable oil
- 0.5 cup unsweetened applesauce Can substitute unsweetened apple butter
- 3 large eggs Ensure at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Filling and Glaze
- 2 cups diced tart apples (such as Granny Smith)
- 0.5 cup chopped nuts (optional) Feel free to substitute or omit
- 1 cup powdered sugar For glaze
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Add applesauce, eggs, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture, whisking until fully combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, ensuring it is spread evenly.
Baking
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before preparing the caramel glaze.
Glazing and Serving
- For the glaze, combine a non-alcoholic alternative to bourbon and powdered sugar in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth.
- Drizzle the caramel glaze over the bundt cake and serve.