If you are searching for the perfect way to brighten your morning, look no further than this Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe. This delightful cake brings together the comforting warmth of cinnamon and the juicy sweetness of apples in a moist, tender crumb that feels like a cozy hug with every bite. Whether you’re serving it for a family brunch or a special weekend treat, this cake is easy to make, visually stunning, and bursting with flavors that will instantly become a breakfast favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays an essential role, creating a balanced combination of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the all-purpose flour that forms the cake’s soft base to the cinnamon that infuses warmth, every element is simple yet fundamental for that classic taste and perfect bundt shape.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the cake’s structure while keeping it tender.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise to a light, fluffy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the sour cream to create an airy crumb.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, fragrant spice throughout the cake.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Contributes richness and moistness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with subtle sweetness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds moisture and tenderness while reacting with baking soda for lift.
- 1/4 cup milk: Loosens the batter for a soft, luscious consistency.
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 1 cup): Provides bursts of juicy sweetness and texture.
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for the topping): Creates a sweet, caramel-like crust on top.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the topping): Infuses the topping with spicy warmth.
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted (for the topping): Helps the topping brown beautifully and adds richness.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan thoroughly to ensure your cake releases easily after baking. This simple step ensures your masterpiece remains intact and beautiful.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. This mixture is the foundation for distributing flavor and leavening evenly throughout your Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe.
Step 3: Prepare the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process traps air for a tender crumb. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract to enrich the flavor with its sweet, aromatic notes.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add your dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with sour cream and milk. This technique helps keep the batter smooth without overmixing, preserving the delicate texture that makes this cake so inviting.
Step 5: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in the chopped apple and walnuts or pecans if you’re using them. The apples will infuse the cake with juicy pockets of flavor, while nuts add delightful crunch and nutty undertones.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping and Bake
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon for a sweet and spicy topping. Pour the cake batter into your prepared bundt pan, drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top, then sprinkle the cinnamon-brown sugar blend generously. This topping caramelizes as the cake bakes, forming a gorgeous, flavorful crust.
Bake the cake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The fragrance while it bakes will make it hard to wait!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set before carefully removing it. Then place it on a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps the flavors deepen and makes slicing a breeze.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a simple drizzle of vanilla glaze can add an elegant finishing touch. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on the plate complement the cake’s flavors perfectly and create a stunning presentation.
Side Dishes
If you want to turn this breakfast cake into a more filling meal, consider pairing it with creamy Greek yogurt, a bowl of fresh berries, or a cup of hot coffee or tea. These sides balance the sweetness and add variety to your morning bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch gathering, slice the cake and serve with small bowls of whipped cream, honey, or cinnamon butter on the side for guests to customize their slice. You can also transform leftovers into breakfast parfaits by layering cake chunks, yogurt, and fruit in glasses for a fresh new treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days at room temperature, making it easy to enjoy over several breakfasts.
Freezing
This Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for best protection and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in a microwave for about 20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. Reheating revives the cake’s soft texture and enhances its comforting aromas.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Crisp apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best because they hold their texture during baking, offering a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but be sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to keep the cake’s tender structure intact.
Is it necessary to use sour cream?
Sour cream adds moisture and a slight tang that enriches the cake, but you can substitute with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk if needed with excellent results.
Can I omit the nuts if I have allergies?
Yes, the nuts are optional and can be left out without affecting the overall texture and taste significantly. You might want to add a little extra apple to keep the texture interesting.
What’s the best way to prevent the cake from sticking to the bundt pan?
Greasing the bundt pan thoroughly with butter and dusting it with flour or using a baking spray specifically designed for pans will help release your cake perfectly every time.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe is truly a treasure you’ll want to keep in your breakfast repertoire. It’s simple to make and fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas while delivering a delicious, satisfying start to your day. I hope you enjoy making it as much as you do eating it—grab your ingredients and bake a little joy today!
Print
Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bundt Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This delicious Breakfast Bundt Cake combines warm cinnamon spice with the sweetness of fresh apples and a crunchy nut topping. Perfectly moist and tender, this cake is an ideal way to start your morning or to enjoy as a comforting snack with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Topping Ingredients
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined.
- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Alternate adding dry and wet ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream and milk. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cake.
- Add apples and nuts: Fold in the chopped peeled apple and the optional chopped walnuts or pecans carefully to distribute them evenly throughout the batter.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and cinnamon. Drizzle the melted butter over the batter once it is poured into the bundt pan, then sprinkle the brown sugar and cinnamon mixture evenly on top.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set. Then carefully remove the cake from the pan and place it on a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy your flavorful breakfast treat!
Notes
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easier creaming and a fluffier texture.
- The optional nuts can be omitted or substituted with your favorite nuts depending on preference or allergy concerns.
- Peeling the apple helps maintain a smoother texture and prevents any bitterness from the skin.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and moist.
- Use a toothpick test to check doneness to avoid under or overbaking.
- This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea for breakfast or brunch.
