If apple fritters are your guilty pleasure, then this Apple Fritter Cake is about to become your new favorite indulgence.
Imagine everything you love about a classic apple fritter—sweet, spiced apples, a cinnamon glaze, and that irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth texture—transformed into a moist and decadent cake.
It’s the perfect balance of cozy flavors and festive flair, making it a must-have for brunch tables and dessert spreads alike.
I first made this cake on a chilly Sunday morning when I craved something warm and nostalgic but didn’t want the mess of frying.
It filled my kitchen with the heavenly aroma of cinnamon and apples and was such a hit that I paired it with a Mimosa to celebrate the moment.
And let me tell you, this cake also loves a sidekick like soft, gooey Cinnamon Rolls for the ultimate brunch lineup.
What makes this recipe special is its versatility—serve it as a dessert, a coffee cake, or a show-stopping addition to any breakfast spread.
The tender layers of spiced apples and cake, topped with a sweet glaze, create a treat that’s just as comforting as it is impressive.
Why You’ll Be Hooked?
- All the fritter goodness, none of the frying: Skip the fryer and enjoy a no-mess, all-flavor dessert.
- Homemade comfort made simple: This cake is easy to make but tastes like a bakery masterpiece.
- Aromatic and delicious: The combination of cinnamon, apples, and a sweet glaze is pure bliss.
- Crowd-pleasing appeal: It’s the dessert everyone will rave about—simple, classic, and unforgettable.
This Apple Fritter Cake is guaranteed to steal the show, whether you’re enjoying it with your morning coffee or sharing it with friends at brunch. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Apple Fritter Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Stand mixer with paddle attachment (or hand mixer)
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Butter knife for poking holes
Ingredients
- Filling
- 2 cups peeled and large diced Granny Smith Apples about 2 medium
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons water
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- Cake
- 1/3 cup butter room temperature
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup applesauce
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 eggs
- 2 1/4 cups flour
- 1 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
- Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
- In a saucepan, cook apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and water over medium heat for 5–6 minutes until softened and thickened. Cool. Mix brown sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl; set aside.
Preheat and Prepare Pan:
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch pan with nonstick spray.
Make the Batter:
- Cream butter and sugar in a stand mixer for 3 minutes. Add applesauce, vanilla, and eggs; mix until combined. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Alternately add dry ingredients and Greek yogurt, beginning and ending with dry. Mix until just combined.
Layer the Cake:
- Spread half the batter in the pan. Layer with the apple mixture and 2/3 of the brown sugar mixture. Cover with remaining batter and sprinkle the remaining brown sugar mixture on top.
Bake:
- Bake for 35–40 minutes or until the center is set.
Prepare the Glaze:
- Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla in a bowl until smooth.
Glaze the Cake:
- Immediately after baking, poke holes in the cake with a butter knife. Pour the glaze over the top, spreading evenly. Let set for 20 minutes before serving.
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 526 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 78g |
| Sodium | 276g |
| Fat | 21g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Sugar | 54g |
