There’s nothing like the smell of a fresh apple bundt cake baking in the oven! This recipe is one of my go-tos when I have extra apples on hand and want to make something special. The combination of cinnamon, apples, and walnuts creates a warm, comforting flavor that feels perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights in. I’ve made this cake countless times, and it always gets rave reviews. It's a simple yet delightful cake that’s packed with fresh apple goodness.
Why It’s Great
This Fresh Apple Bundt Cake is moist, flavorful, and loaded with the natural sweetness of apples and the warmth of cinnamon. The walnuts add a perfect crunch, and the orange juice gives the cake a subtle citrus twist that complements the apples beautifully. It’s a great dessert for any occasion and pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. The confectioners' sugar dusting gives it a beautiful, elegant finish.
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
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- Prepare the apples: In a small bowl, toss the diced apples with 1 tablespoon of white sugar and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Set aside.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat the sugar, vegetable oil, orange juice, vanilla extract, and eggs until smooth.
- Combine and add walnuts: Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Fold in the apples and chopped walnuts.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and dust: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack. Once cooled, dust with confectioners' sugar.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Slice the cake and serve it as is or with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence. It’s perfect for dessert or an afternoon treat with coffee or tea.
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.
Helpful Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a handful of raisins or dried cranberries to the batter.
- If you prefer a more pronounced apple flavor, consider using a tart apple variety like Granny Smith.
- For a slightly sweeter and more decorative finish, you can top the cake with a glaze instead of confectioners’ sugar.
FAQs
- Can I substitute the walnuts?
Yes, you can replace walnuts with pecans, almonds, or leave them out entirely if you prefer a nut-free version. - What type of apples should I use?
Granny Smith apples work best for their tartness, but you can use any firm, sweet variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji. - Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake stores well and can be made a day in advance. Just dust it with confectioners' sugar before serving for the freshest presentation. - Can I add a glaze instead of dusting with confectioners' sugar?
Yes, a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and a bit of milk or orange juice would be a delicious alternative. - How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the bundt pan?
Make sure to grease and flour your bundt pan thoroughly, paying special attention to all the crevices. Alternatively, you can use a nonstick baking spray.
Final Thoughts
This Fresh Apple Bundt Cake is the perfect combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and crunchy walnuts. It’s a cake that feels like home, with its comforting flavors and moist texture. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this recipe will not disappoint. Enjoy it with friends and family, and watch it become a favorite in your household!
