Apple Fritter Cake – Easy Cinnamon Apple Cake with Vanilla Glaze

This Apple Fritter Cake is soft, cozy, and packed with warm fall flavors. In fact, every slice has tender cinnamon apples, fluffy vanilla cake, and a sweet vanilla glaze.

Best of all, you don’t need to fry anything. Instead, you can enjoy the flavors of an apple fritter in an easy homemade cake.

For example, serve it for dessert, brunch, or with a warm cup of coffee. In addition, it’s a simple apple recipe that’s perfect for fall baking.

Why You’ll Love This Apple Fritter Cake

First of all, this easy cake is full of apple and cinnamon flavor. Moreover, it’s simple enough for beginner bakers.

• Fresh apples: For example, every slice is filled with tender apple pieces.
• Easy preparation: In addition, no frying or complicated decorating is needed.
• Cozy fall flavor: Above all, cinnamon, apples, brown sugar, and vanilla work beautifully together.
• Soft texture: As a result, the cake stays tender and moist.
• Sweet glaze: Finally, vanilla glaze adds the perfect finishing touch.

What Is Apple Fritter Cake?

Apple Fritter Cake is inspired by classic apple fritters. However, this version is baked instead of fried.

The cake combines vanilla batter with tender cinnamon apples. After baking, a simple vanilla glaze goes on top.

As a result, you get familiar apple fritter flavors in an easy homemade cake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need simple baking ingredients to make this recipe. For the best results, choose fresh and firm apples.

For the Cinnamon Apples

• 3 medium firm apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3/4 cup whole milk, at room temperature

For the Vanilla Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 to 3 tablespoons whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 pinch salt

Best Apples for Apple Fritter Cake

Firm apples are best for this recipe. Therefore, they soften in the oven without losing all of their texture.

For example, Granny Smith is a great choice because it is firm and tart. In addition, its tart flavor balances the sweetness of the cake.

Alternatively, Pink Lady apples work very well. They have a crisp texture and a pleasant sweet-tart flavor.

You can also combine two apple varieties. That way, you’ll get a nice balance between sweet and tart flavors.

How to Make Apple Fritter Cake

The process is simple. First, prepare the apples. Next, make the cake batter. Finally, assemble and bake the cake.

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan

First, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Meanwhile, grease a 9-inch square baking pan. Then, line it with parchment paper for easier removal.

2. Prepare the Cinnamon Apples

To begin, peel and core the apples. Afterward, cut them into small pieces.

Next, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.

Cook for 4 to 5 minutes and stir occasionally. This way, the apples will cook evenly.

The apples should begin to soften. However, they should still hold their shape. Once ready, remove them from the heat and set them aside.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

Meanwhile, add the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg to a medium bowl.

Then, whisk everything until evenly combined. Afterward, set the bowl aside while you prepare the remaining ingredients.

4. Cream the Butter and Sugar

Now, place the softened butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl.

Beat them together for 2 to 3 minutes. As a result, the mixture should become light and fluffy.

5. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Next, mix in one egg until combined. Afterward, mix in the second egg.

Finally, pour in the vanilla extract and mix again until smooth.

6. Finish the Cake Batter

First, mix some of the dry ingredients into the butter mixture. Then, pour in part of the milk.

Continue alternating between the dry ingredients and milk. However, begin and finish with the dry ingredients.

Most importantly, don’t overmix the batter. Instead, stop mixing as soon as everything comes together.

7. Assemble the Cake

To begin, spread half of the batter into the prepared pan.

Next, spoon half of the cinnamon apples over the batter. Then, spread them evenly across the surface.

Afterward, cover the apples with the remaining cake batter. Finally, scatter the remaining apples over the top.

8. Bake the Cake

Now, bake the cake for about 40 to 50 minutes.

After 40 minutes, start checking the center. At this point, the top should begin to look golden.

For another check, insert a toothpick near the center. Ideally, it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.

9. Let the Cake Cool

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven. Then, let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.

Afterward, carefully transfer it to a cooling rack. Before adding the glaze, allow the cake to cool further.

10. Make the Vanilla Glaze

Meanwhile, place the powdered sugar, milk, vanilla, and salt in a small bowl.

Then, whisk everything until smooth. If the glaze is too thick, add a little more milk.

11. Glaze and Serve

Once the cake has cooled, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top.

Finally, let the glaze set for 10 to 15 minutes. After that, slice the cake and enjoy.

Tips for the Best Apple Fritter Cake

Fortunately, a few simple tips can make this cake even better.

• Choose firm apples. This way, they’ll keep a better texture after baking.
• Cut the apples evenly. As a result, the pieces will cook at a similar rate.
• Don’t overcook the apples. Remember, they’ll continue cooking in the oven.
• Use room-temperature ingredients. Therefore, everything will blend more easily.
• Avoid overmixing. Otherwise, the cake may become less tender.
• Cool before glazing. If the cake is too warm, the glaze may melt into it.

How to Serve Apple Fritter Cake

This cake is delicious at room temperature. Alternatively, you can serve it slightly warm.

For an extra treat, add vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. In addition, a slice pairs beautifully with coffee or hot tea.

How to Store Apple Fritter Cake

First, place leftover cake in an airtight container. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days.

For longer storage, keep the cake in the refrigerator. This way, it will stay fresh for about 4 to 5 days.

Before serving, let refrigerated slices come closer to room temperature. Alternatively, warm each slice briefly before serving.

Can You Freeze Apple Fritter Cake?

Fortunately, you can freeze this cake. However, it’s best to freeze it before adding the vanilla glaze.

First, wrap individual slices well. Next, place them in a freezer-safe container.

You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. After thawing, simply add fresh vanilla glaze before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Granny Smith apples?

Absolutely. Granny Smith apples are an excellent choice. In particular, their firm texture helps them hold their shape during baking.

Do I need to peel the apples?

For the best texture, peeling the apples is recommended. As a result, the finished cake will be softer and more consistent.

Can I use different apple varieties?

Of course. In fact, mixing tart and sweet apples can give the cake a more balanced flavor.

Can I skip the vanilla glaze?

Certainly. The cake tastes delicious without it. However, the glaze adds sweetness and creates the classic apple-fritter-inspired finish.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Definitely. You can bake it one day ahead and keep it covered. For the best appearance, add the vanilla glaze closer to serving time.

Final Thoughts

Overall, this Apple Fritter Cake is an easy dessert for anyone who loves apples and cinnamon. It’s soft, sweet, and full of cozy fall flavor.

In addition, the tender apples and vanilla glaze make every slice special. Better yet, you can make the entire cake without frying anything.

Finally, serve it at brunch, share it with family, or enjoy a slice with coffee. It’s a simple fall recipe that’s worth making again.

Sources & Baking References

• King Arthur Baking – Apple Fritter Cake
• King Arthur Baking – Best Recipes to Bake in September