Apple cake is one of the desserts I look forward to most every fall. I developed this recipe for Maple Apple Spice Bundt Cake in fall of 2013 and it immediately became my favorite apple cake. It’s now a staple in my fall/holiday baking rotation.
Fresh apple cake reminds me so much of my childhood. My mom used to make an oil-based apple spice cake recipe that was baked in a 13 x 9 pan. It was always such a treat when she baked it and I swear I can close my eyes and taste it right now.
Since apple cake is such a favorite of mine, I’ve experimented with different variations of apple cakes. I’ve tried baked them in springform pans (which actually works great), glass baking dishes, bundts and cake pans. I tend to gravitate towards the bundt pan due to the lovely presentation it provides.
I have also played around with oil-base, butter-base, using yogurt, etc. The perfect combo was discovered in a blend of butter and cream cheese. The cream cheese may sound a little weird but trust me, it works. I have also tested various sugar/sweetening methods and the maple syrup and brown sugar combo in this recipes was a match made in apple cake heaven.
Baking is so different than cooking in that it’s a science. When I cook I go off of what I think will work in my head and get creative and 99% of the time it works out. With baking you have to follow rules and there’s a big chance for error that can result in major flops. I was beyond thrilled when this cake turned out exactly how I wanted it to without following any recipes. This is one of the only baking recipes that I can truly call my own.
This Maple Apple Spice Bundt Cake is very moist and a light shade of brown in color that comes from the maple syrup and brown sugar. The maple syrup adds an extra flavor dimension that really works with the diced apples that are generously scattered throughout the cake. I was heavy handed with the cinnamon because I love the warmth it adds to the taste. I included nuts in my cake but if they aren’t your thing you wouldn’t miss out if you omitted them. Finally, I topped my cake with a maple syrup glaze and a sprinkling of powdered sugar.
This Maple Apple Spice Bundt Cake recipe is one of my all-time favorites and I hope you enjoy it as well!
