Ingredients

3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

1 cup (200g) brown sugar, packed

1 cup (240ml) vegetable oil

3 large eggs, at room temperature

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

3 medium apples (about 3 cups or 375g), peeled, cored, diced

1 cup (125g) powdered sugar, sifted

2-3 tablespoons (30-45ml) milk

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your bundt pan thoroughly with a butter and flour mixture to prevent sticking; alternatively, use nonstick spray if short on time.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for rich flavor.

Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overworking the batter. Gently fold in the diced apples with a spatula, taking care not to break them down.

Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The kitchen will fill with a warm, inviting aroma.

Step 6: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: To make the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for a sweet finishing touch.

Tips & Variations

Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice contrast to the sweetness, or sweeter varieties like Fuji if you prefer a milder apple flavor.

Adding chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to the cake.

If you want a more intense spice flavor, increase the cinnamon to 3 teaspoons or add a pinch of ground cloves.

Ensure your apples are diced evenly to promote uniform baking and texture throughout the cake.

FAQs

Can I use a different pan instead of a bundt pan?

Yes, a 9×13-inch baking dish or a tube pan can work as alternatives. Adjust baking time accordingly — the cake may bake faster in a shallower pan, so check for doneness starting at 40 minutes.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling the apples is recommended for a smoother texture and appearance, but if you don’t mind a bit of extra texture and color, you can leave the skins on. Just wash the apples thoroughly before dicing.