Apple Pecan Cranberry Bundt Cake is a moist, flavorful dessert that combines the sweetness of apples, the crunch of pecans, and the tartness of cranberries in every bite. Perfect for autumn or any time you’re craving a comforting treat, this cake is easy to make and has a wonderful texture from the combination of fresh fruit and crunchy nuts. The warm spices, like cinnamon, fill the kitchen with an inviting aroma as it bakes, making it the perfect addition to your next gathering or family meal.

The beauty of a Bundt cake lies not only in its flavor but also in its elegant presentation. With its perfectly baked golden crust and intricate shape, this cake is sure to be a showstopper. Whether served for dessert, an afternoon snack, or a holiday treat, this Apple Pecan Cranberry Bundt Cake is the ideal way to celebrate the flavors of fall.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Apple Pecan Cranberry Bundt Cake is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The tart cranberries, sweet apples, and crunchy pecans complement each other beautifully, making each slice exciting and delicious. The cinnamon and vanilla extract add warmth and depth to the cake, creating a comforting experience with every bite. The cake itself is incredibly moist due to the combination of vegetable oil and fresh apples, making it a perfect choice for anyone who loves a soft, flavorful cake. Additionally, the Bundt pan shape gives this cake a stunning presentation, making it perfect for gatherings or holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Salt
Ground cinnamon
Vegetable oil
Granulated sugar
Large eggs
Vanilla extract
Chopped apples
Chopped pecans
Dried cranberries

Variations

If you’d like to experiment with different flavors or make substitutions, consider these variations:

Nuts: You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Fruit: If you prefer, you can replace dried cranberries with raisins or dried cherries for a different dried fruit flavor.
Spices: Add a pinch of ground nutmeg or allspice to enhance the warm, spiced notes in the cake.
Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake for a sweet finishing touch.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan to prevent the cake from sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined. Set this mixture aside.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in the dry ingredients mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing just until everything is incorporated. Be careful not to overmix, as this could affect the texture of the cake.

Step 5: Fold in the Apples, Pecans, and Cranberries

Once the batter is combined, gently fold in the chopped apples, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries. These ingredients add texture and flavor to the cake.

Step 6: Pour the Batter into the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Greasing the Pan: Be sure to grease and flour the Bundt pan thoroughly to ensure that the cake releases easily after baking.
Check for Doneness: Start checking the cake around the 60-minute mark. Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s important to test with a toothpick to avoid overbaking.
Chop the Apples: Make sure the apples are chopped into small, bite-sized pieces so they distribute evenly throughout the cake.
Let the Cake Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to ensure the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve

Apple Pecan Cranberry Bundt Cake is delicious on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also drizzle it with a simple glaze for extra sweetness or serve it with a cup of coffee or tea. This cake is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack and can be enjoyed by itself or paired with fresh fruit.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To extend its freshness, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Be sure to allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

Apple Pecan Cranberry Bundt Cake freezes well. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To thaw, leave the cake at room temperature for a few hours before serving.

Reheating

If you’d like to reheat a slice of cake, place it in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use any variety of apple you prefer. Tart apples like Granny Smith will give the cake a more tangy flavor, while sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp will add more sweetness.

2. Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried cranberries?

Dried cranberries are recommended for this recipe because fresh cranberries can be too tart. If you use fresh cranberries, consider sweetening them before adding them to the cake.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day or two ahead of time. It actually tastes even better after resting, as the flavors have time to meld together.

4. Can I use a different nut?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts, almonds, or any nut of your choice. Make sure to chop them into small pieces for even distribution.

5. Is it necessary to use a Bundt pan?

While a Bundt pan is ideal for this cake, you can also bake the batter in two round cake pans. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

6. How can I add more flavor to this cake?

Try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract, almond extract, or a dash of nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile of the cake.

7. Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?

You can use brown sugar for a deeper, more caramel-like flavor. Just be aware that it will slightly alter the texture of the cake.

8. Can I frost this cake?

While this cake is flavorful on its own, you can frost it with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze for added sweetness.

9. Can I add more spices to the cake?

If you love spices, feel free to add a pinch of ground nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to deepen the cake’s flavor.

10. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. Be sure to check the consistency of the batter and adjust if necessary.

Conclusion

Apple Pecan Cranberry Bundt Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the flavors of fall in every bite. The combination of apples, pecans, and cranberries provides the perfect balance of sweetness, tartness, and crunch, while the warm spices add depth and comfort. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just because, this Bundt cake is a crowd-pleaser. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s a cake that anyone can make and enjoy.