Description
This Apple Fritter Cake combines tender, cinnamon-swirled apples with a moist, buttery cake that mimics the flavors of classic apple fritters. Layers of soft baked apples cooked in brown sugar and cinnamon are swirled through the cake batter, then topped with a sweet vanilla glaze for a perfect breakfast treat or dessert.
Ingredients
Scale
Apple Mixture
- 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
Cake Batter
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup milk
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the apples with brown sugar and cinnamon for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are softened and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a mixer or whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will help incorporate air and create a tender crumb in the cake.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
- Combine dry ingredients and wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with the milk into the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Layer the batter and apple mixture: Grease an 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish. Pour half of the batter into the dish and spread evenly. Spoon half of the cooked apple mixture on top, followed by half of the cinnamon-brown sugar swirl. Using a knife, lightly swirl the layers together. Repeat layering with the remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon sugar, then swirl again to create a marbled effect.
- Bake the cake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and let the cake cool slightly.
- Prepare and drizzle glaze: While the cake is still warm, whisk together powdered sugar, milk (2 to 3 tablespoons, adding gradually to reach desired consistency), and vanilla extract to make a smooth glaze. Drizzle the glaze evenly over the cake. Allow the glaze to set before serving.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor contrast.
- Cooking the apples beforehand ensures they stay soft and infuses the cake with cinnamon-sugar flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter once the flour is added to maintain a tender texture.
- The glaze adds sweetness and a lovely finishing touch but can be omitted for a less sweet version.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle chopped nuts or cinnamon sugar on top before baking.
