Apple Fritter Cake

There’s something undeniably comforting about the warm aroma of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven. Apple Fritter Cake brings that comfort to life in a way that feels like a warm hug from Grandma’s kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weekend bake, a sweet treat for brunch, or a dessert that can steal the show at a dinner party, this Apple Fritter Cake hits all the right notes. It has the gooey cinnamon-spiced apple filling you love in fritters, but baked into a tender, buttery cake with a dreamy vanilla glaze on top.

This article dives deep into everything you need to know to master the Apple Fritter Cake at home—from the essential ingredients to expert-level baking tips. If you’re obsessed with baking or even if you’re just starting out, you’ll love this one. Plus, we’ll walk you through common questions, delicious variations, and creative ways to serve it. So grab your apron and get ready for a baking adventure that’s as rewarding as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Fritter Cake

Here’s why this Apple Fritter Cake is more than just your average dessert:

• Classic flavor combo of apples, cinnamon, and vanilla.
• Easier and less messy than frying apple fritters.
• Moist, tender cake with a rich swirl of caramelized apples.
• Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
• Perfect for any occasion—breakfast, dessert, or snack!

And best of all? You don’t need any fancy equipment or advanced baking skills. This is a no-fuss, full-flavor recipe that anyone can master.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s break down each component of the Apple Fritter Cake, so you know exactly what you’re working with.

For the Cake:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure. Make sure to spoon and level for accurate measurement.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – For sweetness and light caramelization.
• 1½ tsp baking powder – Gives the cake its rise.
• ½ tsp salt – Balances and enhances flavor.
• ½ cup milk – Adds moisture and helps bind everything together.
• 1 large egg – For structure and richness.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract – Infuses the batter with a warm, sweet aroma.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted – Adds fat and flavor for a tender crumb.

For the Apple Filling:

• 2 cups apples, peeled & diced – Choose a firm, tart variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
• 2 tbsp brown sugar – Deepens the flavor and caramelizes beautifully.
• 1 tsp cinnamon – The heart of every good apple dessert.

For the Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar – For that classic fritter glaze texture.
• 2–3 tbsp milk – Adjust for the perfect drizzling consistency.
• ½ tsp vanilla extract – Rounds out the sweetness with a lovely aroma.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Apple Fritter Cake

Ready to bake? Let’s walk through the steps to make the Apple Fritter Cake from scratch.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish (you can also line it with parchment for easier removal).

Step 2: Cook the Apples

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon for about 5–7 minutes until they’re tender and slightly caramelized. Set aside to cool slightly.

Tip: Stir frequently so the apples don’t burn. You want them soft but not mushy.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk the milk, egg, vanilla, and melted butter until smooth.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Step 4: Layer the Cake and Apple Filling

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan. Then layer with half the apple mixture. Repeat with the remaining batter and apples.

Use a butter knife to gently swirl the apple mixture into the batter for that signature marbled look.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Pro Tip: Let the cake rest in the pan for 10–15 minutes before glazing so it doesn’t get soggy.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake.

Want thicker glaze? Use less milk. Thinner? Add a touch more.

Tips for the Best Apple Fritter Cake

To really knock it out of the park, follow these expert baking tips:

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a perfect balance of sweet and sour.
• Don’t skip the swirl—it’s what gives the cake that iconic fritter look and flavor throughout.
• Check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer; many ovens run hot or cold.
• Let the cake cool slightly before adding the glaze, so it melts just a bit and becomes glossy.
• Double the recipe for a 9×13-inch pan and serve a crowd.

Best Apples to Use for Apple Fritter Cake

The apples are the star of the show, so choose wisely:

• Granny Smith – Tart and firm; doesn’t turn to mush.
• Honeycrisp – Sweet, juicy, and holds up well in baking.
• Braeburn – A good balance of sweet and tart.
• Fuji – Sweeter and softer, great if you want a more dessert-like flavor.

Avoid Red Delicious or McIntosh, which get too soft during baking.

Delicious Variations You Can Try

Love the base recipe but want to mix it up? Try these Apple Fritter Cake twists:

• Add nuts – Chopped pecans or walnuts add crunch and nutty richness.
• Caramel drizzle – Replace the glaze with warm caramel sauce.
• Apple cider glaze – Use apple cider instead of milk in the glaze for a fall-inspired twist.
• Spice it up – Add nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom to the apple filling.
• Make it muffins – Divide the batter into muffin tins and reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes.

How to Serve Apple Fritter Cake

This cake is incredibly versatile. Here are some of the best ways to serve it:

• Warm from the oven with glaze freshly drizzled.
• A la mode with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• With coffee or tea for a cozy breakfast treat.
• Topped with whipped cream for an elegant dessert.

How to Store Apple Fritter Cake

You’ve made it. Now how do you keep it fresh?

At Room Temperature:

Store tightly wrapped or in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

In the Fridge:

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Microwave individual slices to warm them up.

In the Freezer:

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven.

Make-Ahead Tips

• Prep the apple filling a day ahead and refrigerate it.
• Bake the cake the night before and glaze in the morning.
• Freeze unglazed cake and add glaze right before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Estimates Per Serving)

This is an estimate for a 9-slice portion of the Apple Fritter Cake:

• Calories: ~280
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Sugar: 28g
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 2g

Nutrition will vary based on exact ingredients and portion size.

FAQs About Apple Fritter Cake

Can I make this Apple Fritter Cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for structure.

What kind of apples work best?

Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are excellent choices. You want apples that hold their shape and don’t turn to mush when baked.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe easily doubles to fit a 9×13-inch pan. Just increase the baking time to 45–50 minutes and keep an eye on the center.

Can I skip the glaze?

Sure, but the glaze really makes it taste like a true fritter. If you prefer less sweetness, use just half the glaze or dust with powdered sugar instead.

Why is my cake dense or dry?

Likely overmixing or overbaking. Mix until just combined and always check for doneness with a toothpick a few minutes early.

Can I use apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?

Yes, in a pinch. But fresh apples give the best texture and flavor. If you use canned filling, reduce the sugar in the recipe slightly.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Technically, yes. But butter adds more flavor, so it’s highly recommended for the best result.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Apple Fritter Cake You’ll Want to Bake Again and Again

Whether it’s your first time baking or you’re already a kitchen pro, this Apple Fritter Cake delivers everything you love about apple fritters in a much easier (and less greasy) format. It’s sweet, soft, perfectly spiced, and absolutely irresistible.

This is one of those recipes that quickly becomes a family favorite—perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just treating yourself to something homemade and satisfying. From the tender cake base to the spiced apple center and that final drizzle of glaze, this dessert is everything a good bake should be: comforting, flavorful, and worth every bite.

So go ahead and bookmark this page, pin the recipe, or print it out for your collection—because once you try it, you’ll want to make this Apple Fritter Cake over and over again.

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