Description
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup sour cream
– 3 cups peeled and diced apples (about 3 medium apples)
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan thoroughly.
2. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract.
5. Alternately add the flour mixture and sour cream to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined.
6. Fold in the diced apples and walnuts gently.
7. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan.
8. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 70 minutes | Total Time: 90 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings
Tips:
Use crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness and texture.
Make sure to grease the bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure a perfect release
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect cake. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the butter and eggs, for optimal mixing. Begin by preheating your oven and preparing the bundt pan. Use a pastry brush to apply a thin layer of softened butter into every crevice, then dust with flour, tapping out the excess. This is crucial for a clean release. When creaming the butter and sugar, beat for a full 3-5 minutes until pale and fluffy to incorporate air. When adding the dry and wet ingredients, use the lowest mixer speed and stop as soon as the flour disappears. Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough cake. Finally, fold in the apples and nuts with a spatula to maintain the batter’s structure.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile apple cake pairs beautifully with various toppings. For a simple treat, dust with powdered sugar. For a richer dessert, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A drizzle of salted caramel or warm cinnamon-spiced apple compote elevates it for special occasions. It also makes an excellent breakfast or brunch item alongside a cup of coffee or tea.
How-to Summary
To make this apple bundt cake: Prepare your pan and preheat the oven. Mix dry ingredients (flour, leaveners, spices). Separately, cream butter and sugar, then incorporate eggs and vanilla. Alternately add the dry mix and sour cream to the wet ingredients. Gently fold in diced apples and walnuts. Pour into the pan and bake for 60-70 minutes. Cool before inverting and dust with powdered sugar to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pan? Yes, but adjust baking time. Two 9-inch loaf pans will take about 45-55 minutes. A 9×13 sheet pan will take 35-45 minutes. Always test for doneness with a toothpick.
Can I substitute the sour cream? Absolutely. An equal amount of plain full-fat yogurt or buttermilk will work well, maintaining moisture and tenderness.
How should I store the cake? Store cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
What are the best apples to use? Firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and provide a nice flavor contrast. Avoid very soft varieties like Red Delicious.
Why did my cake stick to the pan? This is almost always due to insufficient pan preparation. Ensure every nook is greased and floured. Let the cake cool in the pan for only 15 minutes—cooling too long can cause sticking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Cold Ingredients: Cold butter and eggs won’t emulsify properly, resulting in a dense cake.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mix only until ingredients are combined after adding flour to avoid a tough crumb.
- Incorrect Pan Prep: Skipping the flour dusting after greasing is a common cause of sticking.
- Opening the Oven Door Early: Wait until at least the 50-minute mark before checking to prevent the cake from collapsing.
- Cutting While Warm: Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack for clean slices and proper texture.
Conclusion
This classic apple bundt cake is a celebration of warm spices and tender fruit, perfect for any gathering. By following the detailed steps, avoiding common pitfalls, and using the right apples, you’ll achieve a moist, flavorful cake with a stunning presentation. Its versatility in serving makes it a reliable go-to recipe. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!