13 Apple Cake Recipes That Taste Like Fall In Every Bite

13 Apple Cake Recipes That Taste Like Fall In Every Bite bring the cozy, comforting essence of autumn straight into your kitchen. There’s something magical about the scent of apples baking with cinnamon, brown sugar, and warm spices—it’s like wrapping yourself in your favorite sweater on a crisp fall morning. Whether you’re using tart Granny Smiths, sweet Honeycrisps, or a mix of both, these apple cake recipes are packed with the nostalgic flavors that define the season. From rustic one-bowl cakes to elegant layered desserts, each recipe captures that unmistakable fall feeling in every bite.

These cakes aren’t just delicious—they’re perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a weekend bake, or a last-minute treat for guests. With rich textures, bold flavors, and just the right balance of sweetness, these 13 recipes will become your go-to for fall baking. Expect tender crumbs, gooey apple centers, and golden, caramelized crusts that fill your home with an irresistible aroma. So pour yourself a cup of warm cider, pull up a chair, and get ready to discover your new favorite apple cake.

Maple Pecan Apple Cake

This Maple Pecan Apple Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With its moist texture and rich flavors, it combines sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and a hint of maple syrup to create a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

Making this cake is a breeze! It requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it a great option for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. You’ll love how the sweet aroma fills your kitchen as it bakes, inviting everyone to gather around for a slice.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup maple syrup
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups peeled and diced apples
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla, mixing well.
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
Fold in the diced apples, chopped pecans, and cinnamon until evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve with a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.

Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake

This Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful treat that brings the flavors of fall right to your table. With a moist cake base topped with sweet caramelized apples, every bite is a warm hug. It’s simple to whip up, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.

The combination of tender apples and rich caramel creates a mouthwatering experience that’s hard to resist. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch!

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar, packed
3 cups sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved, then pour the mixture into the prepared cake pan.
Arrange the sliced apples over the caramel mixture in the pan.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, beat together granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla until light and fluffy. Mix in the buttermilk.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Pour the batter over the apples in the pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm and enjoy!

Gluten-Free Apple Almond Cake

This Gluten-Free Apple Almond Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. With its moist texture and nutty flavor, it’s a perfect dessert for any gathering or a cozy night in. The combination of sweet apples and crunchy almonds creates a delicious contrast that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Making this cake is simple and straightforward, even for those new to gluten-free baking. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up, and the aroma of baking apples and almonds will fill your kitchen with warmth and comfort.

Ingredients

2 cups almond flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 large eggs
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
1/4 cup sliced almonds (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, mix together the almond flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, applesauce, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Gently fold in the diced apples.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the top.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and enjoy your delicious Gluten-Free Apple Almond Cake!

Apple Cider Donut Cake

This Apple Cider Donut Cake brings the cozy flavors of fall right to your kitchen. With a moist texture and a hint of cinnamon, it tastes just like your favorite apple cider donuts, but in cake form! It’s simple to whip up and perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Each bite is filled with the warm essence of apples and spices, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee or as a dessert, this cake is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Ingredients

2 cups apple cider
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
In a saucepan, bring the apple cider to a boil and reduce it to about 1 cup. Let it cool slightly.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and cooled apple cider.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Spiced Apple Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Glaze

A spiced apple bundt cake drizzled with cream cheese glaze, garnished with apple slices.

This Spiced Apple Bundt Cake is a warm hug in dessert form. With its rich apple flavor and cozy spices, it perfectly captures the essence of fall. The cream cheese glaze adds a delightful sweetness that complements the cake’s moist texture.

Making this cake is simple and fun! Just mix the ingredients, pour them into a bundt pan, and let the oven do the work. You’ll have a stunning cake that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup apples, peeled and diced
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1 cup cream cheese, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)
2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
In another bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and walnuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
For the glaze, beat together cream cheese, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.

Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake

This Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake is a warm, comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With tender apples and a hint of cinnamon, it’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a simple family treat. Plus, it’s easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

The cake is moist and flavorful, with a delightful crumb that pairs beautifully with a dusting of powdered sugar. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a sweet ending to dinner, this cake is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the batter.
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy your delicious Classic Cinnamon Apple Cake!

Apple Crumble Coffee Cake

This Apple Crumble Coffee Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With its tender cake base, sweet apple slices, and a crunchy crumble topping, each bite is a warm hug on a chilly day. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, making it a great choice for both seasoned bakers and beginners.

The combination of cinnamon and apples creates a comforting flavor that pairs beautifully with your morning coffee or an afternoon tea. This cake is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to use up those fresh apples from your local orchard.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
2 cups peeled and diced apples
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, milk, and eggs, and beat until smooth.
Fold in the diced apples and pour the batter into the prepared pan.
In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and nuts. Sprinkle this mixture over the cake batter.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool slightly before serving.

Rustic Apple Galette

This Rustic Apple Galette is the perfect way to celebrate fall flavors. With its flaky crust and sweet, spiced apple filling, it brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Plus, it’s super simple to make, so you can whip it up even on a busy day!

The galette has a rustic charm that makes it feel homemade, and the combination of tender apples with a hint of cinnamon is simply delightful. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat that feels like a cozy hug!

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
4-5 tablespoons ice water
3-4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions

Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and granulated sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Form into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
Roll Out the Dough: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Assemble the Galette: Arrange the apple mixture in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold the edges of the dough over the apples, pleating as you go. Brush the crust with the beaten egg.
Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. Let cool slightly before serving.

Old-Fashioned Apple Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting

This Old-Fashioned Apple Cake is a warm hug in dessert form. With tender chunks of apple and a moist crumb, it captures the essence of fall with every bite. The brown sugar frosting adds a sweet, caramel-like finish that perfectly complements the spiced cake.

Making this cake is simple and rewarding. You don’t need any fancy techniques—just mix, bake, and enjoy! It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar, packed
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups peeled and chopped apples
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup powdered sugar

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples and walnuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in brown sugar and milk, bringing to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Once cooled, whisk in vanilla and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread over the warm cake.
Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Old-Fashioned Apple Cake!

Apple and Cranberry Streusel Cake

This Apple and Cranberry Streusel Cake is a delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of fall. With its moist apple base and tart cranberries, each bite is a burst of seasonal flavors. The crunchy streusel topping adds a satisfying texture, making it a favorite for gatherings or cozy afternoons at home.

Making this cake is simple and fun, even for baking novices. Just mix your ingredients, layer in the apples and cranberries, and top it off with the streusel. In no time, you’ll have a delicious cake that fills your kitchen with the warm scents of autumn.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups peeled and diced apples
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup rolled oats
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla and sour cream.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and cranberries.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top.
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, oats, cinnamon, and nuts (if using) to make the streusel topping. Sprinkle it evenly over the cake batter.
Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and enjoy your Apple and Cranberry Streusel Cake, perfect for sharing with friends and family!

Chai-Spiced Apple Cake

This Chai-Spiced Apple Cake is a delightful treat that brings the cozy flavors of fall right to your kitchen. With warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger, each bite feels like a warm hug, making it perfect for chilly days. Plus, it’s simple to whip up, so you can enjoy a slice in no time!

The combination of tender apples and aromatic spices creates a cake that’s both comforting and inviting. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it with a cup of tea, this cake is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 2 medium apples)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
Fold in the diced apples and walnuts, if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Bourbon Apple Cake with Caramel Drizzle

A moist Bourbon Apple Cake drizzled with caramel sauce, showcasing slices on a black plate.

This Bourbon Apple Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall in every bite. With its moist texture and the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, it’s perfect for cozy gatherings or a simple afternoon snack. The addition of bourbon adds a subtle depth, making it a bit special without being overwhelming.

Making this cake is straightforward, even for beginners. The caramel drizzle on top not only enhances the flavor but also gives it a beautiful finish. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this cake, and it’s sure to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup bourbon
2 cups peeled and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)
1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and bourbon.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped apples.
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, drizzle with caramel sauce before serving. Enjoy your delicious Bourbon Apple Cake!

Honeycrisp Apple and Walnut Cake

This Honeycrisp Apple and Walnut Cake is a delightful treat that captures the essence of fall. The sweet and tart flavor of Honeycrisp apples pairs perfectly with crunchy walnuts, creating a moist and flavorful cake that’s hard to resist.

Making this cake is simple and fun! With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dessert ready to impress your family and friends. Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or as a sweet ending to any meal!

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups Honeycrisp apples, peeled and diced
1 cup walnuts, chopped
1/2 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
2 tablespoons milk (for glaze)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In another large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the diced apples and chopped walnuts.
Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the glaze, mix powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.

Final thoughts

Fall is a season made for baking, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than with a delicious apple cake. These 13 recipes offer everything from quick and easy weekday bakes to showstopping desserts perfect for entertaining. Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity of a spiced apple loaf or the indulgence of a caramel apple layer cake, there’s a little something here for every baker and every craving. So take your pick, fire up the oven, and let the flavors of fall fill your kitchen and your heart.