If you’ve been on the hunt for a cozy, comforting morning treat that fills your kitchen with the warmest aromas, this Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, moist cake bursting with sweet chunks of apple, perfectly spiced cinnamon weaving through every bite, and a delightful cinnamon-brown sugar topping that adds just the right hint of crunch. It’s the kind of breakfast cake that feels like a warm hug in the morning and makes getting out of bed a little easier. Whether for a weekend brunch or a special occasion breakfast, this recipe brings joy, deliciousness, and a splash of autumn magic to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, well-balanced ingredients is the key to making this Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe truly shine. Each component plays a role, from the tender crumb to the spiced sweetness and just enough richness to keep you coming back for more.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy base and structure for our cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise to fluffy perfection.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for lift and tenderness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds that classic warm spice that pairs perfectly with apple.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Brings moisture and richness to every bite.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right with a light texture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add a slight richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the flavor with subtle warmth.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake tender and adds a hint of tang.
- 1/4 cup milk: Loosens the batter for the perfect consistency.
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 1 cup): Fresh apple pieces provide juicy bursts of flavor and texture.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty undertone.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for the topping): Creates a sweet, caramelized crust on top of the cake.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the topping): Enhances the aroma and gives the topping extra spice.
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for the topping): Helps the sugar mixture stick and bake into a crisp topping.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly to ensure your cake releases beautifully after baking, with lovely defined edges.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the cake for a consistent rise and flavor.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This aerates the batter, ensuring a tender crumb. Then, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each to blend in fully, followed by the vanilla extract for that lovely aromatic touch.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream and milk. This alternating method keeps the batter smooth and prevents overmixing, which can make the cake tough.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in the chopped apple and, if you’re using, walnuts or pecans. The apples add bursts of juiciness while the nuts contribute a delightful crunch—a beautiful contrast in texture.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon. Before pouring the batter into your bundt pan, drizzle melted butter over the bottom, then sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly—this creates a scrumptious caramelized topping once baked.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it out to distribute evenly. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This slow bake allows the flavors to meld and the cake to cook through perfectly.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes so it firms up enough for easy removal. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Serving it at room temperature lets all those amazing aromas and flavors fully develop.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Top your warm slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt for creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the cake’s sweetness. A light dusting of powdered sugar also makes for a pretty and inviting finish.
Side Dishes
Pairing this cake with fresh seasonal fruit or a crisp green salad creates a well-rounded breakfast. A side of creamy cottage cheese or a dollop of ricotta mixed with honey adds a lovely textural and flavor contrast that complements the apple cinnamon notes beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive brunch, serve slices on rustic wooden boards, sprinkled with extra chopped nuts or drizzled with warm caramel sauce. You can also cut the bundt cake into cubes for a more casual coffee table treat or stack slices with layers of apple compote between for a breakfast cake trifle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe keeps beautifully at room temperature when wrapped tightly, staying fresh and moist for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it covered in the refrigerator.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this cake later, slice it and individually wrap pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer bag. It freezes wonderfully for up to 3 months and thaws quickly at room temperature.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven for a few minutes to revive that freshly baked texture and flavor. Add a pat of butter or cream cheese spread for an extra indulgent bite.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in the cake?
Absolutely! While a sweet and slightly tart apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp works well, feel free to use whatever apples you have on hand. Just make sure they’re firm to maintain nice texture in the cake.
Is it necessary to use the nuts in this recipe?
Not at all. The nuts add a lovely crunch and flavor depth, but the cake will still be delicious and moist without them if you prefer to leave them out or have allergies to consider.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just be mindful that texture might vary slightly, so choose a blend with xanthan gum or another binding agent for best results.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, plain yogurt or buttermilk can be used as a substitute in equal amounts. They will maintain the tanginess and moisture in the cake beautifully.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The best way is to insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center; if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked. Avoid opening the oven too early to prevent sinking.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about waking up to the cozy, inviting smells of cinnamon and apple mingling in a freshly baked cake. This Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe is straightforward, rewarding, and packs all the flavors that make mornings magical. Give it a try and soon it might just become your go-to breakfast treat that friends and family ask for again and again!
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Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
Description
This Breakfast Bundt Cake is a moist and flavorful treat perfect for starting your day. Made with a blend of warm spices, tender apples, and crunchy nuts, it’s topped with a sweet cinnamon-brown sugar glaze that adds a delightful finish. Ideal for brunch, coffee breaks, or a comforting breakfast dessert.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
Add-ins
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan to ensure the cake does not stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream and milk. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to prevent overmixing, which can toughen the cake.
- Fold in Apple and Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped apple and chopped walnuts or pecans if using, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Drizzle the melted butter over the batter once poured into the bundt pan, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set. Carefully remove from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use fresh apples with a firm texture like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Walnuts or pecans are optional but add a nice crunch and flavor contrast.
- Ensure the bundt pan is well-greased and floured to prevent sticking.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Reheat slices gently in the microwave or oven before serving if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
