If you love warm spices, sweet apples, and that rich, cozy flavor of pumpkin, you’re in for a treat with this Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake! This recipe creates a moist, tender cake with the loveliest crumb and a tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a standout fall dessert or a new family favorite for gatherings, this bundt cake delivers comfort and nostalgia in every bite. It’s simple to make, yet spectacular enough to impress, perfectly marrying the best of apple and pumpkin in one glorious cake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake! is found in its simple, no-fuss ingredients. Each component shines in its role, whether it’s providing sweetness, tenderness, or that unforgettable fall spice sensation. Here’s what you’ll need, along with why they matter:
- Eggs: These add structure and help create a rich, tender crumb in your cake.
- White Sugar: For classic sweetness and moisture that keeps the cake soft.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a hint of molasses flavor and extra depth.
- Vegetable Oil: The secret to making your bundt super moist and luscious.
- Vanilla Extract: It’s a must for bringing all the flavors together with a warm, aromatic touch.
- Pumpkin Puree: The star ingredient – brings richness, color, and earthy sweetness.
- All-Purpose Flour (sifted): Sifting ensures a light, even crumb and prevents lumps.
- Baking Soda: Works with the acid in pumpkin to lift the cake perfectly.
- Baking Powder: Guarantees a tender, fluffy rise.
- Salt: Just enough to balance sweetness and enhance those warm flavors.
- Cinnamon: Delivers the signature spice that makes this cake irresistible.
- Apples (cored, peeled, diced): Juicy apple bites weave through the cake adding bursts of sweetness and texture.
How to Make Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake!
Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This gets your oven to the perfect temperature for baking, ensuring even heat distribution and consistent rise. While that’s happening, generously spray your bundt pan with baking spray to prevent sticking—nothing ruins a bundt like a stubborn pan!
Step 2: Cream Eggs and Sugars
In a medium-sized bowl, beat together the eggs, white sugar, and brown sugar until creamy, which takes about 4 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial for dissolving the sugars and incorporating air, setting you up for a soft, fluffy Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake!
Step 3: Add Oils and Pumpkin
Pour in the vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Mix for another minute or two to blend them in thoroughly. Now comes the pumpkin puree—add and blend for just one more minute. This mix brings the cake its signature moisture and that gorgeous, golden-orange hue.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine sifted flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Whisking these together first ensures even distribution of leavening and spice, so every bite of Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake! is balanced and flavorful.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don’t overmix—this is how you keep the cake tender and prevent it from getting dense. Fold in the diced apples gently, making sure every piece is sweetly nestled in the batter.
Step 6: Bake
Spoon the batter into your prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Slide it into your oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The aroma alone is enough to gather an audience in the kitchen! You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted comes out clean or with just a few crumbs.
Step 7: Cool and Release
Let the cake cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 40 minutes. Patience pays off here—removing the cake too soon can cause it to break. After cooling, carefully invert it onto a serving platter, letting it cool further before slicing. The result is a glorious Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake! with perfect slices every time.
How to Serve Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake!
Garnishes
This cake is naturally stunning, but a touch of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple glaze, or even a scattering of toasted pecans or walnuts takes it over the top. The slight crunch and hint of extra sweetness make every slice of Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake! feel extra special.
Side Dishes
Pair a generous wedge with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a swirl of whipped cream, or a dollop of crème fraîche. For cozy afternoons, this cake is dreamy alongside a mug of hot apple cider or a strong cup of coffee. These combos create a true autumn celebration on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
You can dust the cooled cake with cinnamon sugar for sparkle, or serve it on a cake platter with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a rustic look. Hosting a brunch? Try slicing the Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake! and stacking layers with cream cheese frosting for an elegant twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake! keeps beautifully at room temperature for up to two days, covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so those slices might taste even better the next day!
Freezing
To freeze, let the cake cool completely, then wrap individual slices or the whole bundt tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Pop into a freezer-safe bag or container, and it’ll last for up to three months. When you crave a slice, just thaw it at room temperature and enjoy that just-baked taste anytime.
Reheating
If you love a warm slice, heat individual pieces in the microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds, or pop them in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes. The cake will emerge moist and fragrant, reviving those fresh-from-the-oven sensations.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Absolutely! Just roast, puree, and drain your fresh pumpkin well to achieve the same consistency as canned. Your Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake! will taste beautifully homemade and the texture will be equally moist.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling is recommended for a soft, consistent crumb, but if you love a bit of texture and color, leave the peel on. Just be sure to dice the apples small so they soften fully during baking.
What kind of apples work best for this cake?
Firm, slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are fantastic since they hold their shape and balance the sweetness. Mix a couple types for extra flavor depth in your Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
You sure can! This recipe is perfect for making the night before. Store it well-covered at room temperature and let the flavors meld—the texture often improves by day two.
How do I keep my cake from sticking to the bundt pan?
Be generous with baking spray, making sure to reach every nook and cranny, or grease and flour the pan thoroughly. Let the cake cool as directed before inverting, and your Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake! will release effortlessly!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cake that’s equal parts cozy, flavorful, and show-stopping, Apple Pumpkin Bundt Cake! has your back. Whether it’s a family dessert or your next potluck star, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and share a slice—or two—with friends and loved ones. Your kitchen is about to smell amazing!
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