If you love the warm, nostalgic flavors of apple fritters but want something with a bit more cake-like comfort, then you have to try this Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe. It perfectly captures the cinnamon-spiced, tender sweetness of classic fritters while adding a luscious glaze on top that elevates every bite. Imagine juicy Honeycrisp apples nestled in a moist, fluffy cake with a tender cinnamon-sugar swirl and a sweet vanilla glaze that makes each slice utterly irresistible. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up, this cake brings all the apple-cinnamon goodness you crave in a beautiful loaf.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, wholesome, and essential, the ingredients for this cake come together to create a harmony of flavors and textures. Each component plays a vital role—the Honeycrisp apples add juicy bursts of sweetness, the cinnamon-sugar swirl infuses that comforting spice, and the vanilla glaze ties it all together with just the right amount of sweetness and shine.
- Honeycrisp apples (2 cups, peeled and chopped): Crisp and sweet for juicy bursts in every bite.
- Granulated sugar (2 tablespoons + 2/3 cup): Sweetens the apples and the cake batter perfectly.
- Cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon for apples + 1/2 teaspoon for swirl): Adds the signature warm spice that complements apples beautifully.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The base that gives the cake its tender structure.
- Baking powder (1 3/4 teaspoons): Helps the cake rise perfectly fluffy and light.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances all the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Adds richness and moist texture.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s softness.
- Vanilla extract (1 1/2 teaspoons): Brings a warm, aromatic undertone.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Keeps the cake moist with a slight tangy richness.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Adjusts batter consistency for the ideal crumb.
- Brown sugar (1/3 cup): For the cinnamon-sugar swirl with deep molasses notes.
- Powdered sugar (1 cup): To create the silky glaze that ties the cake together.
How to Make Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apples and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan, so the cake won’t stick. Toss the peeled, chopped Honeycrisp apples with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. This step lets the apples soak up sweetness and warmth, ensuring they bake into tender, flavorful pockets throughout the cake.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients ensures your cake rises evenly and develops a delicate crumb, giving you that perfect balance between lightness and satisfying texture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and 2/3 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process aerates the batter, which is key to a tender and airy cake that melts in your mouth.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in the vanilla extract. The eggs provide structure, while the vanilla gives the cake that warm, inviting aroma that makes it impossible to resist.
Step 5: Incorporate Sour Cream and Milk
Add the sour cream and milk, stirring until smooth. These ingredients add mooisture and a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully, making each slice perfectly tender.
Step 6: Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually fold in the flour mixture until just combined. Be gentle here to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cake. You want a batter that’s light but cohesive, ready to hold the fruit and cinnamon-sugar swirl.
Step 7: Layer the Batter and Apple Swirl
Pour half of the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Then sprinkle half of the cinnamon-spiced apples and half of the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture on top. Repeat the layers with the remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon sugar. Use a knife to lightly swirl the top, creating those classic fritter-style ribbons of cinnamon and apple throughout the cake.
Step 8: Bake and Cool
Bake for 55 to 65 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This resting time helps the cake firm up enough to glaze without crumbling.
Step 9: Prepare and Drizzle the Glaze
Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Drizzle it generously over the warm cake, letting it drip down the sides. The glaze sets into a beautiful, glossy finish that’s sweet but not overpowering, making every bite delightfully moist and flavorful.
How to Serve Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For a simple yet stunning presentation, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon or a dusting of powdered sugar on top of the glaze just before serving. You could also add thin apple slices or a few chopped toasted pecans for a little crunch and sophistication.
Side Dishes
This cake is versatile and pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. If you’re serving it for breakfast or brunch, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream turns it into a dreamy dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try slicing the cake into bite-sized cubes and serving it on a platter with skewers as a fun party treat. You can also transform leftovers into bread pudding bites, soaking them in custard and baking for an inventive twist on this classic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your leftover Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The glaze will remain soft, and the cake stays moist, making it perfect for snacking the next morning or as an afternoon treat.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to keep it fresh for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Reheating
If you prefer your slices warm, gently reheat individual portions in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This softens the glaze and brings back the freshly baked aroma, making it taste like it just came out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples provide the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness with a firm texture, you can substitute Granny Smith for more tartness or Fuji for extra sweetness. Just keep in mind the texture differences when baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional recipe calls for all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can experiment with a gluten-free baking blend, but results may vary in texture and rise.
Can I make this cake dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based sour cream and milk to accommodate a dairy-free diet. The cake will remain moist and delicious with these swaps.
How long does the cake stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature, the cake stays fresh and tasty for up to three days. Beyond that, it’s best to freeze the leftovers to maintain moisture.
Can I double the recipe?
You can double the recipe, but be sure to use a larger pan or two loaf pans to allow even baking. Adjust the baking time accordingly and check for doneness with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
This Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe is a true celebration of autumn flavors with a moist, tender crumb and the sweet-tart brightness of fresh apples swirling through every bite. It’s easy enough for a cozy weekend bake but captivating enough to impress guests or delight your family any day of the week. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire. So, grab those Honeycrisp apples and get ready to fill your kitchen with the most inviting scents and the most delicious cake you’ve had in a long time!
Print
Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A moist and flavorful glazed Honeycrisp apple fritter cake with layers of cinnamon-spiced apples and a sweet glaze, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or afternoon coffee breaks.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Honeycrisp apples (peeled and chopped)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 3/4 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Toss apples with sugar and cinnamon: In a small bowl, mix the peeled and chopped Honeycrisp apples with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt, ensuring even distribution of leavening agents.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with 2/3 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a creamy base for the cake.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating each before adding the next, then mix in the vanilla extract to enhance flavor.
- Mix in sour cream and milk: Stir in the sour cream and milk until the batter is smooth, which adds moisture and richness to the cake.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Layer the batter and apples: Pour half the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle half the cinnamon-sugar apples and half the brown sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly over the batter. Repeat with remaining batter, apples, and cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Create the cinnamon swirl: Use a knife to lightly swirl the apple and cinnamon mixture into the batter to distribute the flavors beautifully throughout the cake.
- Bake the cake: Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, ensuring the cake is fully cooked but still moist.
- Cool the cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare and apply glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the warm cake and let it set before slicing to add a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- This cake is best served slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- This cake works wonderfully for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon coffee treat.
