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Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe

Avatar photoByJaden
Jump to Recipe· 4.5 from 686 reviews

If you love the cozy, cinnamon-spiced goodness of apple fritters but want something easier to slice and share, you’re going to absolutely adore this Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe. I first tried this cake on a crisp fall morning, and it quickly became a household favorite—my family goes crazy for the tender crumb combined with juicy honeycrisp apples and that sweet, glossy glaze. Stick around because I’m about to share all my best tips on making this cake turn out perfectly every time!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect balance of flavors: The sweet honeycrisp apples paired with cinnamon and vanilla make every bite a treat.
  • Moist and tender texture: Thanks to the apple butter and Greek yogurt, the cake is soft yet sturdy enough to hold all those juicy apple chunks.
  • Easy to make: No fancy equipment required — just simple mixing and baking that you can comfortably do on a weeknight or weekend.
  • Versatile dessert: Enjoy it warm with glaze or at room temperature, perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert.
The image shows three thick square slices of a baked dessert with a dark brown base full of small orange chunks inside, topped with a light drizzle of white glaze that has a shiny and smooth texture. The dessert slices sit on crinkled parchment paper with some scattered crumbs around. To the top left, there is a small blue and white vase holding a dark red flower with deep green leaves. The whole scene is lit by warm sunlight creating strong shadows and highlights, placed on a white marbled surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake, apple fritter cake, honeycrisp apple dessert, fall apple cake, cinnamon apple cake this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe plays a special role: the apples provide freshness and juiciness, while the spices and dairy make sure the texture and flavor are on point. When shopping, pick crisp, fresh Honeycrisp apples for the best results—they hold up beautifully during baking.

Flat lay of two bright Honeycrisp apples, a small mound of golden brown sugar, a stick of melted salted butter glistening, a dollop of creamy apple butter, a small jar of vanilla extract with a tiny spill, a heap of warm cinnamon powder, smooth white powdered sugar scattered lightly, and a few flakes of coarse sea salt crystals, all beautifully arranged on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake, apple fritter cake, honeycrisp apple dessert, fall apple cake, cinnamon apple cake
  • Salted butter: Melted butter adds richness and moisture—using salted helps balance the sweetness.
  • Brown sugar: I love the deep caramel notes it brings to the cake and filling.
  • Apple butter (or applesauce/pumpkin butter): Gives the batter added moisture and subtle fruitiness that sets this cake apart.
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream: These add tang and keep the crumb tender without extra fat.
  • Eggs: Make sure they’re at room temperature for best mixing and rise.
  • Vanilla extract: Both in the batter and the apple mix to enhance the sweet notes.
  • All-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure.
  • Cinnamon: Classic warming spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
  • Baking powder and baking soda: These help the cake rise and get that light texture.
  • Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
  • Honeycrisp apples: Chopped fresh apples provide bursts of juicy flavor.
  • Powdered sugar: For the sweet glaze that ties everything together.
  • Whole milk: Adjusts the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
  • Flaky sea salt: Sprinkled on top for that irresistible sweet-salty contrast.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how versatile this Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe is—you can easily switch it up based on your mood or pantry. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

  • Use different apples: I sometimes swap Honeycrisp for Fuji or Gala, which works great if that’s what you have on hand.
  • Dairy-free option: Replace yogurt with coconut yogurt and use dairy-free butter for a tasty alternative.
  • Spiced up: Adding nutmeg or ground cloves alongside cinnamon can deepen the fall flavors even more.
  • Drizzle ideas: Try a maple glaze instead of vanilla for a richer sweetness that pairs beautifully with apples.

How to Make Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Mix the Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper—this makes cleanup so much easier! In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, apple butter, Greek yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Then sift in the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix gently until just combined—don’t overdo it, or the cake might turn out dense.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Mixture

In a separate bowl, toss the chopped Honeycrisp apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla until the pieces are nicely coated and aromatic. This step is what gives the cake that authentic apple fritter vibe with soft, sweet apple pockets throughout.

Step 3: Layer the Cake

Spread half of your batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Then spoon over half of the apple mixture, spreading it gently. Cover the apples with the remaining batter and top it off with the rest of the apples and any juices left in the bowl. This layering creates that delightful contrast of tender cake and sweet apple bites in every slice.

Step 4: Bake and Glaze

Bake the cake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until it’s just set in the center—a toothpick inserted should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before you make the glaze. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, adjusting the milk to get a pourable glaze consistency. Drizzle it generously over your warm cake and finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt. That little salty sparkler on top is where the magic happens—trust me!

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Pro Tips for Making Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe

  • Room Temperature Eggs: I learned that using eggs straight from the fridge toughens the batter; room temp eggs blend more smoothly.
  • Don’t Overmix: Fold the flour in just until combined to avoid a dense cake, which was a common mistake I made early on.
  • Layer Carefully: Spoon the apple mixture on top carefully to avoid sinking—the layering makes a big difference in texture.
  • Check Early for Doneness: Oven temperatures vary, so start testing the cake at 50 minutes to prevent overbaking and dryness.

How to Serve Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe

A beige patterned plate holds a rectangular piece of dessert with a rough brown base layer filled with small golden-brown chunks. The top layer is covered in a thick white glaze dripping down the sides and pooling slightly on the plate. There are small scattered bits of the dessert around the main piece, and an old-fashioned silver fork rests diagonally across the plate, partially touching the dessert. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, with sunlight casting strong shadows. A portion of the dessert is also on crumpled brown paper at the bottom of the image, also drizzled with white glaze. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake, apple fritter cake, honeycrisp apple dessert, fall apple cake, cinnamon apple cake

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of keeping things simple here—just a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on the glaze really elevates the flavors. Sometimes, I add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch that everyone loves. Fresh apple slices or a dusting of cinnamon sugar can also add a nice visual pop when serving to guests.

Side Dishes

This cake is fantastic on its own, but I often enjoy it alongside a hot cup of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy autumn vibe. If you’re serving it for brunch, pair with some scrambled eggs or soft cheese for contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I’ve layered this cake with cream cheese frosting between slices and topped it with candied pecans for added texture and wow factor. You can also serve individual portions in mini ramekins or bake it as cupcakes for a fun twist at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually keep leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. After that, I move the cake to the fridge to keep it fresh longer—just bring it back to room temp before serving.

Freezing

This cake freezes well, which is a lifesaver on busy days! I slice it first, then separate pieces with parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe bag. When I want a quick treat, I just pop a slice in the microwave for about 30 seconds.

Reheating

I recommend reheating slices in the microwave or a warm oven to revive that soft, fresh-baked texture. If you want the glaze to shine, drizzle a little fresh glaze on top after warming.

FAQs

  1. Can I use other apples instead of Honeycrisp?

    Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples are ideal because they stay firm and sweet, you can substitute with Fuji, Gala, or Pink Lady apples. Just make sure to chop them bite-sized and adjust cooking time if needed based on their sweetness and moisture.

  2. What’s the best way to store leftover cake?

    Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. Make sure it’s well-covered to keep it moist and prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.

  3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

    Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture. Be sure to check the blend’s instructions, as some may need slight adjustments to liquids.

  4. Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

    To make this vegan, use a plant-based butter substitute, replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water per egg), and use dairy-free yogurt. Also, make sure your apple butter or applesauce is free of animal products.

  5. How do I know when the cake is done baking?

    Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake around the 55-minute mark; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The cake should be set but still soft to the touch—avoid overbaking to keep it tender.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely love how this Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe brings the comforting flavors of homemade apple fritters into an easy-to-slice cake form. It’s perfect when you want to impress guests with minimal effort, or just treat yourself to something a little special without fuss. I truly hope once you try it, it becomes your go-to fall dessert or breakfast treat like it did for me. Go on, grab those crisp apples and bake this joy into your kitchen today!

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Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 686 reviews
  • Author: Jaden
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60 minutes
  • Total Time: 80 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

This Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake is a delightful autumn dessert that captures the flavors of classic apple fritters in a moist, tender cake. Featuring juicy Honeycrisp apples layered within a spiced batter, it’s finished with a sweet vanilla glaze and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt for the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Perfect for cozy fall gatherings or a comforting treat any day.

Ingredients

Cake Batter

  • 1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup apple butter (or applesauce/pumpkin butter)
  • 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream
  • 2 eggs, at room temperature
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Apple Mixture

  • 2 Honeycrisp apples, chopped (about 2 cups)
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Glaze

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons whole milk
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9 inch baking dish with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
  2. Make the batter: In a large bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, apple butter, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the all-purpose flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix to keep the cake tender.
  3. Prepare the apple mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the chopped Honeycrisp apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly to coat the apples.
  4. Assemble the cake: Spread half of the cake batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spoon about half of the apple mixture over the batter. Carefully cover the apples with the remaining batter, then top with the remaining apple mixture along with any juices left in the bowl.
  5. Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes or until the cake is just set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let the cake cool for 10 minutes.
  6. Make the glaze: While the cake cools, whisk together powdered sugar, whole milk (adding 2-3 tablespoons as needed to reach drizzling consistency), and vanilla extract in a bowl. Drizzle this glaze generously over the warm cake and sprinkle with flaky sea salt for contrast.
  7. Serve: Enjoy the cake warm or at room temperature. The combination of sweet glaze, tender spiced cake, and juicy apples makes this dessert truly irresistible.

Notes

  • This cake is reminiscent of apple fritters but in a soft, cakey form, making it a perfect fall dessert.
  • Use Honeycrisp apples for their sweetness and crisp texture; other tart apples can work but may affect flavor.
  • Apple butter can be substituted with applesauce or pumpkin butter if desired.
  • For best results, do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and tender.
  • Sprinkling flaky sea salt on top enhances the sweet glaze with a subtle salty contrast.
  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of cake)
  • Calories: 396 kcal
  • Sugar: 28 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 60 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg
Avatar photo

Hey everyone! I'm Jaden, and welcome to YummyHere! Basically, I'm obsessed with food. Like, really obsessed. So, I figured, why not share all my yummy creations with the world? Hopefully, you'll find something here that makes you say "Yum!" (because that's the goal, right?). Let's get cooking!

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