The Best Apples For Baking

The best baking apples offer a balance of sweet and tart flavors as well as flesh that doesn't break down completely in the oven. This recipe calls for classic Granny Smith apples, one of the most popular choices. They're tart with firm flesh, making them perfect for baking — but if you like a splash of sweetness, Honeycrisp apples are a tasty alternative. They provide a juicy crispness and are firm enough to bake with. You can also use Braeburn apples because they're firm and keep their shape while baking. You can also mix and match your apples to suit your taste.

Recipe Variations

Make it your own recipe with one of these customizations:

Go Gluten-Free. Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour such as almond flour or coconut flour — but be careful about ratios, as coconut flour, for example, is extremely absorbent.

Drizzle With Caramel Sauce. Replicate the flavors of a traditional caramel apple by adding a caramel sauce to your apple cake.

Top With Frosting. Add another layer of creamy sweetness by topping with frosting.

Add A Glaze. For a thinner topping that's just as sweet, finish your cake with a smooth glaze.

Baking Tips

Give It Time. Because this bundt cake is large, it will take a decent amount of time in the oven — about 55-70 minutes. Your bake time may be slightly higher or lower, which is normal because every oven heats differently.

Use Fresh Apples. Fresh apples have the best flavor. If you want to keep them a little longer, they can be refrigerated. Use perforated plastic bags or containers that allow airflow to prevent them from drying.

Prepare Your Apples. Always peel your apples completely before baking with them. The skin becomes tough and won't break down well when cooked. If you get a bite of cake with even a little bit of apple skin, it won't be the best bite.

This cake is wonderful served warm, at room temperature, or even cold. Store leftover cake at room temperature for up to three days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just thaw the cake overnight in the fridge, then allow it to come to room temperature on the kitchen counter. It's ideal for making ahead of time and serving whenever you're ready.