Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe

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If you have a craving for something that feels like a warm hug in dessert form, then this Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe is exactly what you need. This cake perfectly balances tender, cinnamon-spiced apples baked into a moist bundt, all crowned with a luscious, homemade caramel glaze that melts in your mouth. Every bite brings together the crisp tartness of Granny Smith apples with sweet, buttery caramel, making it an unforgettable dessert that’s perfect for any season or special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the cake’s tender crumb, fruity depth, and rich caramel finish.

• Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a soft, moist crumb.
• Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and prevents it from drying out.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor with its warm, sweet aroma.
• Eggs: Serve as the structure to bind ingredients and create a light texture.
• All-purpose flour: The base that gives the cake its body and a tender crumb.
• Baking soda: Helps the cake rise for a light texture.
• Ground cinnamon: Adds cozy warmth and perfectly complements the apples.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the other flavors.
• Granny Smith apples: Their crisp tartness keeps the cake fresh and flavorful.
• Unsalted butter: The foundation of the caramel glaze’s richness.
• Heavy cream: Creates the silky texture in the caramel glaze.
• Light brown sugar: Gives the caramel its deep, molasses flavor.
• Pinch of salt (for glaze): Elevates and balances the sweetness of the caramel.

How to Make Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease and flour a 10-cup bundt pan to make sure the cake releases easily after baking. This step is crucial to keeping your cake intact and looking beautiful.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and eggs until you have a smooth, cohesive mixture. This combination gives the cake moisture and a delicate sweetness that shines throughout.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This blend forms the flavorful backbone of the cake and ensures even distribution of the spices.

Step 4: Bring Together Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so fold with care for a tender crumb.

Step 5: Fold in the Apples

Carefully fold in the diced Granny Smith apples, making sure they are evenly distributed through the batter. These apples add delightful bursts of tartness and moisture to every bite.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before flipping it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Make the Caramel Glaze

While the cake cools, melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, brown sugar, and salt, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly until silky and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant finish.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake and Serve

Pour the warm caramel glaze generously over the cooled Apple Bundt Cake, letting it cascade down the sides in luscious streams. Once glazed, slice and enjoy the perfect union of tender cake and rich caramel.

How to Serve Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top of the caramel glaze. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a swirl of whipped cream also makes a lovely presentation and adds texture.

Side Dishes

This Apple Bundt Cake shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A cup of hot coffee or spiced tea elevates the experience, making it perfect for cozy afternoons or festive gatherings.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce warmed on the side for extra indulgence. You can also layer smaller slices between thin apple crisps for added crunch or present mini bundt cakes individually for delightful single servings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and glazed, store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to five days. This keeps the cake moist while preserving the caramel’s rich flavor.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for the best texture and flavor before glazing or enjoying.

Reheating

If you like your cake warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven for a few minutes. Warm slices paired with a little extra caramel drizzle taste divine and almost like freshly made.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples offer a perfect balance of tartness and firmness, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Just keep in mind that some apples are sweeter or softer and may slightly change the texture or flavor.

Is it necessary to grease and flour the bundt pan?

Yes, this is important. Bundt pans have intricate designs, and greasing plus flouring ensures the cake releases smoothly without sticking or breaking apart.

Can I make the caramel glaze ahead of time?

You can prepare the caramel glaze a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it gently before pouring over the cake so it’s silky and pourable.

How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

Use the proper amount of oil and don’t overbake. Also, letting the cake cool properly before glazing helps lock in moisture, giving you a soft and tender texture.

Can I substitute the vegetable oil with butter?

Yes, you can replace vegetable oil with melted butter for a richer flavor, but it might change the cake’s texture slightly—making it a bit denser. Both options work deliciously well.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like making a dessert that brings joy with every bite, and this Apple Bundt Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe delivers just that. It’s a soul-satisfying combination of spice, fruit, and creamy caramel that will brighten up your kitchen and your day. So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients, and bake a cake that feels like home in every slice.

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