Introduction to Apple Fritter Cake
Are you ready to indulge in a sweet treat that combines the best of apple desserts and cake? Meet the Apple Fritter Cake! This delicious creation brings the flavors of classic apple fritters into a moist, tender cake that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual brunches to cozy evenings at home.
Why Apple Fritter Cake is the Perfect Homemade Treat?
Imagine biting into a slice of this cake and tasting the warm, spiced apples mingled with a rich, soft cake base, all topped with a luscious glaze. It’s a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make! The combination of Pink Lady or Granny Smith apples with a touch of cinnamon makes each bite a delightful experience—just like your favorite autumn apple desserts.
Moreover, this cake is versatile. Serve it as a dessert, a delightful breakfast, or share a slice with friends over coffee. The straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow recipe make it a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Want to know the best part? It fills your home with an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking when they can enjoy a slice! So let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to bake this delightful apple fritter cake.
Ingredients for Apple Fritter Cake
When it comes to baking the perfect apple fritter cake, having quality ingredients is key! Let’s break down what you’ll need.
Apple Topping Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon table salt
- 3 ½ cups (396g) apples, diced into ½" pieces (about 4 medium apples)—choose a firm variety like Pink Lady or Granny Smith for optimal flavor
- ½ cup (107g) light brown sugar, packed
The apple topping is where the magic begins, infusing your cake with all those warm, cozy flavors we crave.
Cake Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups (270g) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup (198g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg or allspice
- 12 tablespoons (170g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons King Arthur Pure Vanilla Extract
- ¾ cup (170g) milk, at room temperature
These cake ingredients come together to create a moist and fluffy base that will support that delightful apple topping.
Glaze Ingredients
- ¾ cup (85g) confectioners' sugar, sifted
- 1 ½ to 3 tablespoons (21g to 43g) milk (whole milk works best)
- ½ teaspoon King Arthur Pure Vanilla Extract
Finally, the glaze adds that sweet finishing touch, and you can adjust the consistency to your liking!
Now that you're equipped with the ingredient list for this delicious apple fritter cake, it’s time to start mixing and baking!
Preparing Apple Fritter Cake
Preheat your oven and prepare the pan
To kick off your delicious journey into making apple fritter cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and turns out perfectly golden brown. While the oven warms up, grab a 9-inch square pan, line it with parchment paper, and give it a light greasing. This simple step is crucial for easy removal later. If you’re unsure how to make a parchment sling, check out this helpful guide on creating a parchment sling.
Make the apple topping
Next up, let’s prepare the apple topping that will add that signature flavor to your apple fritter cake. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir in 1 ½ teaspoons of cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon of salt until combined.
Add 3 ½ cups of diced firm apples (like Pink Lady or Granny Smith) to the skillet and stir until they’re well-coated. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples start to soften. Sprinkle in ½ cup of packed light brown sugar and continue cooking until the mixture becomes sticky, around another 5 minutes. Off the heat, let this deliciously aromatic topping cool while you whip up your cake batter.
Mix the dry ingredients for the cake
In a separate bowl, combine 2 ¼ cups of unbleached all-purpose flour, 2 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for that warm, cozy flavor. Mixing these dry ingredients together beforehand ensures they're evenly distributed in your cake.
Create the cake batter
Now, it’s time to make the batter! In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, beat in 12 tablespoons of room-temperature unsalted butter with the sugar until the mixture resembles sandy crumbs. Add in 3 large eggs, one at a time, fully incorporating each egg before adding the next.
Once that’s smooth, mix in 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract and ¾ cup of milk until combined. This creates a beautifully rich base for your apple fritter cake.
Assemble the cake and apple topping
With the batter ready, transfer it to your prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. Now, it’s time for the star of the show! Spoon the apple topping over the batter until it's evenly distributed. Don’t hesitate to get a little creative with the arrangement.
Bake and cool the cake
Pop the pan into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 to 65 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake and test it with a paring knife; it should come out clean when it’s ready. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for about 30 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare and drizzle the glaze
As your cake cools, let’s make that delightful glaze! In a small bowl, whisk together ¾ cup of sifted confectioners' sugar with 1 ½ to 3 tablespoons of milk and ½ teaspoon of vanilla. The more milk you add, the thinner your glaze will be, so adjust to your desired consistency. Drizzle it generously over your cooled cake, and let it set for a few moments before slicing it up for your enjoyment.
There you go! You’ve just crafted a scrumptious apple fritter cake that’s sure to impress your friends or family. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share the joy of baking!
Variations on Apple Fritter Cake
Caramel Apple Fritter Cake
For a decadent twist, try a Caramel Apple Fritter Cake. Simply drizzle homemade caramel sauce over your apple topping before baking. This adds an indulgent layer of flavor that beautifully complements the warm apples and cinnamon. You can even fold in caramel bits into the cake batter for extra sweetness! If you're feeling adventurous, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert that’s perfect for cozy evenings.
Gluten-Free Apple Fritter Cake
Have dietary restrictions? No problem! Transform your apple fritter cake into a gluten-free delight by swapping out the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix. Just ensure it contains xanthan gum, which helps to mimic the texture of traditional flour. You'll still enjoy a moist, flavorful cake that’s every bit as satisfying as the original. Be sure to check out some gluten-free baking tips from King Arthur Baking for the best results!
Baking Tips for Apple Fritter Cake
Best apple varieties for baking
When making apple fritter cake, you'll want to choose apples that hold their shape and provide great flavor. Firm varieties like Pink Lady, Granny Smith, or Honeycrisp work best. They offer a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, enhancing the cake's overall taste and texture.
How to achieve a perfect glaze
For an irresistible glaze that mimics the classic fritter finish, mix confectioners' sugar with milk until you reach your desired consistency. For a thin, transparent look, add more milk; if you prefer a thicker drizzle, use less. Experiment to find what you love, and don't forget to drizzle it over the cake while it’s still warm for maximum absorption! Want to learn more about glazes? Check out this great guide.
Serving Suggestions for Apple Fritter Cake
Pairing with Coffee or Tea
For the ultimate indulgence, enjoy apple fritter cake with a steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing herbal tea. The spiced apple flavors and rich glaze complement the robust notes of coffee beautifully. Consider pairing it with a smooth latte or a fruity chamomile tea. It’s the perfect afternoon treat!
Serving Warm vs. Cold
Apple fritter cake can be delightful served in different ways! Enjoy it warm, straight from the oven, for a comforting dessert experience. The buttery cake and warm apples create a melt-in-your-mouth sensation. Alternatively, let it cool completely for a more structured slice that's perfect for brunch or an on-the-go snack. It's delicious either way!
Whether you're sharing with friends or enjoying solo, this cake is sure to please. Remember to experiment and find your perfect serving style!
Time Breakdown for Apple Fritter Cake
Preparation Time
Getting started on your Apple Fritter Cake is a breeze! You'll want to allocate about 20-30 minutes for preparation. This includes peeling and dicing the apples, mixing the ingredients, and assembling everything in your pan.
Baking Time
Once you've prepared your cake, it's time to let it do its magic in the oven! Bake the apple fritter cake for 60 to 65 minutes. Keep an eye on it—your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma!
Total Time
From start to finish, expect to dedicate around 1 hour and 30 minutes to your apple fritter cake. This includes prep, baking, and a little cooling time before you dig in. Trust me, it's worth every second!
Nutritional Facts for Apple Fritter Cake
Calories per slice
Each slice of Apple Fritter Cake contains approximately 275 calories. This makes it a delightful treat without being overly indulgent, perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea.
Key nutritional information
This cake is not only delicious but also features:
- Carbohydrates: 44g (from apples and sugar)
- Protein: 3g (primarily from eggs and milk)
- Fat: 10g (mainly from butter)
- Fiber: 1g (thanks to the apples)
When you enjoy a slice of Apple Fritter Cake, you're getting a balance of flavors and nutrients. For more in-depth nutritional data, check out King Arthur Flour’s nutritional info.
FAQs about Apple Fritter Cake
How can I store leftover Apple Fritter Cake?
Storing leftover Apple Fritter Cake is a breeze! Simply cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. You can keep it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to savor it for a longer period, consider refrigerating it, which will help maintain its moisture.
Can I freeze Apple Fritter Cake?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great option for extending the life of your Apple Fritter Cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. It can stay fresh in the freezer for about two to three months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying!
What should I serve with Apple Fritter Cake?
For a delightful experience, serve your Apple Fritter Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Pairing it with a warm cup of coffee or tea can also enhance the flavors beautifully. You might even consider drizzling a bit of caramel sauce on top for an indulgent twist!
For more tips on serving cakes, check out Epicurious’ serving suggestions.
Conclusion on Apple Fritter Cake
The delightful apple fritter cake is not just a treat; it’s a slice of nostalgia perfect for any gathering. With apples surrounded by a moist cake and a sweet glaze, each bite transports you. Don't forget to share this easy recipe with friends so they can enjoy this fall favorite too!
For more baking inspiration, check out our Ultimate Fall Dessert Guide and elevate your dessert game!
Apple Fritter Cake: The Best Indulgent Dessert You'll Love
Equipment
- 9 inch square pan
- Large Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- stand mixer
- Whisk
Ingredients
Apple topping
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon table salt
- 3.5 cups apples, diced (from about 4 medium apples)
- 0.5 cup light brown sugar packed
Cake
- 2.25 cups King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
- 2.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon table salt
- 0.25 teaspoon nutmeg or allspice
- 12 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature
- 3 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons King Arthur Pure Vanilla Extract
- 0.75 cup milk at room temperature
Glaze
- 0.75 cup confectioners' sugar sifted
- 1.5 to 3 tablespoons milk whole preferred
- 0.5 teaspoon King Arthur Pure Vanilla Extract
Instructions
Bake Mode
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a 9" square pan with a parchment sling and lightly grease.
- To make the apple topping: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the cinnamon and salt and stir to combine.
- Add the apples to the skillet and stir to coat in the butter mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples just begin to soften.
- Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the apples and stir to combine. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes. Allow the apple mixture to cool in the pan off the heat.
- To make the cake batter: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, salt, and spice. Add the butter and mix until the mixture looks sandy.
- With the mixer running on low speed, beat in the eggs one at a time until fully incorporated, scraping the bowl between additions as needed.
- With the mixer running at low speed, add the vanilla and milk. Once the milk is absorbed, scrape the bowl and mix at medium-high speed for 1 minute.
- To assemble the Apple Fritter Cake: Transfer the batter to the prepared pan and spread it into an even layer. Spoon the apple topping evenly over the batter.
- Bake the cake for 60 to 65 minutes or until a paring knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 30 minutes before gently tipping out onto a rack.
- To make the glaze: In a small bowl, combine the glaze ingredients. Whisk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake and allow to set before serving.
- Store leftover Apple Fritter Cake covered at room temperature or wrap airtight and freeze for longer storage.
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