Caramel Apple Bundt Cake

Name: Caramel Apple Bundt Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar; 4 large eggs; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups peeled and diced apples; 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional); 1 cup granulated sugar; 6 tablespoons unsalted butter; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

I absolutely love making this Caramel Apple Bundt Cake during the fall. The combination of tender apples and sweet caramel creates a dessert that is both comforting and indulgent. As I bake, the delicious aroma fills my kitchen, reminding me of cozy family gatherings and holiday celebrations. This cake is not just a treat but a celebration of flavors that makes every bite worth savoring. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become a favorite in your household!

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:34:28.501Z

Baking this Caramel Apple Bundt Cake always brings back warm memories of autumn afternoons spent with my family. I remember the first time I made it; the apples were freshly picked, and the caramel drizzled beautifully over the top. It transforms a simple cake into a festive centerpiece.

To ensure the flavors meld perfectly, I let the cake cool completely before adding the caramel. This method not only enhances the taste but also gives the cake an elegant finish. Every time I serve it, the compliments just pour in!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A warm, spiced apple flavor that captivates the senses
Decadent caramel glaze that adds a sweet touch
Perfectly moist texture that stands out in every slice

The Essential Role of Apples

The stars of the Caramel Apple Bundt Cake are undoubtedly the apples. Choosing the right variety can enhance the overall flavor and texture significantly. Tart apples like Granny Smith add a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the cake and glaze, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp will give a milder, sweeter profile. Make sure to dice them uniformly so they cook evenly and incorporate well into the batter.

When preparing your apples, be mindful of their moisture content. You may want to pat them dry after dicing to prevent adding excess liquid to the cake, which can affect its structure and create a gummy texture. This attention to detail ensures that every slice has the perfect balance of moist cake and tender fruit.

Perfecting the Caramel Glaze

Creating a smooth caramel glaze is a skill worth mastering. As you melt the sugar over medium heat, keep a close eye on it to avoid burning. Stir gently and continuously to encourage even melting. Once it reaches a golden brown stage, quickly add the butter to stop the cooking process. The mix of hot sugar and cold butter can create a dramatic sizzle, so be cautious.

If your caramel appears grainy after adding the cream, don’t panic! You can reheat it gently and stir continuously until it becomes smooth again. Also, remember that this glaze can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat it softly in a saucepan or microwave before use.

Serving and Storing Tips

For serving, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or drizzling extra caramel glaze on top for an indulgent touch. A sprinkle of sea salt can also elevate the flavors, offering a delightful sweet-salty contrast. This cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of spiced cider or coffee, making it a perfect centerpiece for your fall gatherings.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for about a week. You can also freeze the cake unglazed for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature and glaze before serving for a freshly made taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful cake:

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ cups peeled and diced apples
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Caramel Glaze

1 cup granulated sugar
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
½ cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your masterpiece:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 10-cup bundt pan with butter or cooking spray.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Cream the Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.

Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Fold in the diced apples and walnuts if using.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Prepare Glaze

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Meanwhile, make the caramel glaze.

Make the Caramel Glaze

In a saucepan, melt the sugar over medium heat until it’s golden brown. Add the butter and stir until melted, then slowly add the cream, followed by vanilla and salt, stirring until smooth.

Glaze the Cake

Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the caramel glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides.

Enjoy your delicious creation with a cup of coffee or a scoop of ice cream!

Pro Tips

For extra moisture, add an additional ½ cup of sour cream to the batter. You can also substitute the apples with pears for a different twist!

Tips for the Best Texture

To achieve a perfectly moist bundt cake, be careful not to overmix the batter once you combine the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture due to the gluten development in the flour. It's best to mix until the dry ingredients are just incorporated, then gently fold in the apples and walnuts using a spatula or wooden spoon.

Another essential tip is to avoid underbaking the cake, as this can leave a wet center. Bake the cake until it has a golden brown color and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs. Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake around the 45-minute mark.

Variations and Flavor Enhancements

Feel free to experiment with the basic recipe by adding spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm, fall flavor boost. A tablespoon of apple cider or maple syrup can also add complexity to the overall taste. If you want a lighter version, substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat while still keeping the cake moist.

Consider adding different mix-ins, such as dried cranberries or chocolate chips, for an enticing twist. Another creative variation is to incorporate a layer of cream cheese frosting between the cake layers for a rich, layered dessert experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Yes, pears or even berries work wonderfully in this recipe!

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can bake it one day before serving and glaze it right before you plan to serve.

→ Is the cake freezable?

Yes, you can freeze the unglazed cake for up to 2 months.