If you have a soft spot for cozy desserts that remind you of fresh-baked autumn treats, then you are in for a real delight with this Apple Fritter Cake with Cinnamon-Apple Swirl and Vanilla Glaze Recipe. This cake perfectly balances tender apple chunks bathed in a cinnamon-brown sugar swirl inside moist cake layers topped with a luscious vanilla glaze that adds the perfect sweet finish. Every bite offers the nostalgic flavors of a classic apple fritter transformed into an effortlessly stunning cake that’s just waiting to become your new favorite go-to recipe for any gathering or a special treat at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Apple Fritter Cake with Cinnamon-Apple Swirl and Vanilla Glaze Recipe lies in its simple yet purposeful ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture, flavor balance, and that inviting golden color that will make this cake irresistible on the table.
- Diced apples (2 cups): Opt for Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice balance of tartness and sweetness that holds up beautifully during baking.
- Brown sugar (1 cup): Used in the swirl, it enhances the cinnamon flavor and adds a rich caramel note.
- Cinnamon (2 teaspoons): The classic spice that brings warmth and depth to the swirl and the overall cake.
- Butter, softened (1/2 cup): Provides moisture and richness, giving the cake a tender crumb.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The foundation for the cake, ensuring the right structure without toughness.
- Baking powder (1 3/4 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
- Granulated sugar (2/3 cup): Sweetens the cake base perfectly without overpowering the apple’s natural flavor.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Adds moisture and keeps the cake soft; essential for lightness.
- Large eggs (2): Bind everything together and lend a smooth richness.
- Vanilla extract (1 1/2 teaspoons): Amplifies the sweet, cozy notes in the batter and glaze.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): For the vanilla glaze, it melts easily to create a smooth, sweet topping.
- Milk (2 to 3 tablespoons): Added to the glaze to get the perfect drizzling consistency.
- Vanilla extract (1/4 teaspoon for glaze): Enhances the flavor of the glaze, tying the cake’s profile together beautifully.
How to Make Apple Fritter Cake with Cinnamon-Apple Swirl and Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apple-Cinnamon Swirl
Start by peeling, coring, and dicing your apples into bite-size pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, gently cook the diced apples together with the brown sugar and cinnamon for about 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are softened and fragrant. This mixture will create that luscious, cinnamon-sugar swirl that makes the cake feel like a warm hug. Once done, set it aside to cool slightly—this prevents the fruit from sinking to the bottom of the batter later.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key because it helps incorporate air into the batter, leading to a tender, moist crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract which elevates the cake’s aroma and flavor to the next level.
Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder, ensuring the leavening agent is evenly distributed. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture alternately with the milk, starting and ending with flour. Mixing this way keeps the batter silky smooth while preventing overworking the gluten, which would make your cake tough instead of delightfully soft.
Step 4: Layer the Batter and Apple Mixture
Grease an 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish and pour half of the batter into the pan, smoothing it out gently. Spoon half of the cooked apple mixture evenly over the batter, then drizzle half of the cinnamon-brown sugar swirl on top. Use a knife to lightly swirl the layers together for that signature fritter effect. Repeat this process with the remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon swirl for maximum flavor and stunning visual appeal.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll want to test by inserting a toothpick in the center—once it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. The top will be beautifully golden and the air filled with the most irresistible cinnamon-apple aroma.
Step 6: Drizzle with Vanilla Glaze
While the cake is still warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze evenly over the cake, letting it soak into the warm layers and create a shiny, sweet finish. Allow the glaze to set for a few minutes before slicing so that each piece holds that perfect balance of gooey glaze and spiced apple delight.
How to Serve Apple Fritter Cake with Cinnamon-Apple Swirl and Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
To make your serving extra special, consider a light dusting of ground cinnamon or a sprinkle of finely chopped toasted pecans right before serving. These small touches add an appealing crunch and deepen the warmth of the cinnamon-apple flavors.
Side Dishes
This cake shines beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a generous dollop of whipped cream. For breakfast or brunch, pair it with a cup of hot spiced chai or a simple black coffee to complement the sweetness and spice, making every bite feel like a cozy celebration.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the Apple Fritter Cake with Cinnamon-Apple Swirl and Vanilla Glaze Recipe on a rustic wooden board or a vintage cake stand for a charming, homey feel. For gatherings, cut into small squares and serve on pretty dessert plates with cinnamon sticks as a garnish to amplify the visual and aromatic delight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cake should be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to preserve moisture and flavor. If you want it a little chilled, keep it in the fridge but bring to room temperature before serving to enjoy that luscious texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this Apple Fritter Cake with Cinnamon-Apple Swirl and Vanilla Glaze Recipe by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before warming gently in the oven to bring back its freshly-baked charm.
Reheating
Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or warm the whole cake in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes. This quick reheat helps refresh the glaze and softens the cake, giving you that just-baked feel every time.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are recommended for their tartness and texture, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples. Just keep in mind that sweeter apples may reduce the cinnamon swirl’s boldness.
Is this cake gluten-free or can it be made gluten-free?
This classic recipe uses all-purpose flour, but you can substitute a gluten-free baking mix with similar leavening properties. Be sure to check the blend’s instructions for best results.
Can I prepare the apple mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the apple-cinnamon mixture up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bring it back to room temperature before assembling the cake for even layering.
What if I don’t want to use the glaze?
The cake is wonderful on its own, but the glaze adds an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal. If you prefer, you could dust it lightly with powdered sugar or serve with a side of whipped cream instead.
How do I make sure the cake stays moist?
Be careful not to overbake and follow the ingredient measurements precisely. Also, creaming the butter and sugar well and alternating dry and wet ingredients gently helps create a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you enjoy making and savoring this Apple Fritter Cake with Cinnamon-Apple Swirl and Vanilla Glaze Recipe as much as I do. It’s a heartwarming treat that effortlessly blends the familiarity of apple fritters with the ease of a simple cake. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, this recipe promises to deliver comfort and smiles in every delightful bite. Give it a try—you’ll thank yourself later!
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Apple Fritter Cake with Cinnamon-Apple Swirl and Vanilla Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Fritter Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines tender diced apples cooked with a cinnamon-brown sugar swirl inside a rich buttery cake. Finished with a sweet vanilla glaze drizzle, it captures all the tastes of classic apple fritters in an easy-to-make baked cake form.
Ingredients
Apple Mixture
- 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
Cake Batter
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Cook Apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples. In a skillet over medium heat, cook them with brown sugar and cinnamon for 5–7 minutes until softened. Then remove from heat and let the mixture cool.
- Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Mix Dry Ingredients and Combine: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry mixture alternately with milk into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined and smooth.
- Layer Batter and Apple Mixture: Pour half of the batter into a greased 8×8 or 9×9-inch baking dish. Spread half of the cooked apple mixture and half of the cinnamon-brown sugar swirl on top. Use a knife to lightly swirl the layers together. Repeat the process with the remaining batter, apple mixture, and swirl, then lightly swirl again.
- Bake the Cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the assembled cake for 40–45 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare and Add Glaze: While the cake is still warm, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to create the glaze. Drizzle it evenly over the top and allow it to set before serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for optimal flavor and texture.
- Do not overmix the batter once the dry ingredients are added to keep the cake tender.
- The glaze can be adjusted in thickness by varying the milk amount; add more for a thinner glaze.
- Let the cake cool slightly before glazing for better absorption.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
