Apple Pumpkin Pecan Bundt Cake

Every time I make this Apple Pumpkin Pecan Bundt Cake, it feels like a cozy hug on a chilly autumn day. The aroma of cinnamon and pumpkin fills my kitchen, and I can almost hear my grandmother's laughter as we baked together in her tiny kitchen. You see, this recipe isn't just about delicious flavors; it's a warm reminder of family, love, and cherished memories. When I serve this cake, it's like sharing a piece of my heart with everyone around the table. I know once you try it, you'll feel the same warmth and comfort that I do!
In my little rural town, as the leaves start to turn colors, this cake finds its way into many homes. It’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings, cozy family dinners, or even just because you want to indulge in something sweet. So, pull out your mixing bowls and let's get baking together!
How to Make Apple Pumpkin Pecan Bundt Cake
Ingredients
Let's start with the ingredients you'll need to whip up this delightful cake. I always find it helpful to have everything laid out in front of me before I start. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients | Amount |
---|---|
All-purpose flour | 2 cups |
Baking powder | 1 tsp |
Baking soda | 1 tsp |
Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp |
Ground nutmeg | 1/2 tsp |
Salt | 1/4 tsp |
Granulated sugar | 1 cup |
Brown sugar | 1 cup |
Vegetable oil | 1 cup |
Eggs | 4 large |
Pumpkin puree | 1 cup |
Peeled and diced apples | 1 cup |
Chopped pecans | 1 cup |
Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
Personal note: I love adding in some extras like mini chocolate chips or a sprinkle of walnuts if I want a little variation.
Cooking Steps
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive right into the cooking process!
1. Preheat the oven
First things first, you want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key to ensuring that your cake bakes evenly. Believe me, there’s nothing worse than having an undercooked center!
2. Prepare your bundt pan
Next, grab your bundt pan and grease it well. You want it to be non-stick so that when it’s time to flip your cake out, it comes out beautifully without any sticking. I like to use a cooking spray or a thin layer of oil.
3. Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices, which is crucial for that perfect rise and flavor in your cake.
4. Combine the sugars and oil
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Beat them together until well combined. I find that using a hand mixer makes this job easier and quicker!
5. Add the eggs
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is essential for incorporating plenty of air into your batter, which helps to create a light and fluffy texture!
6. Introduce the pumpkin and vanilla
Now let’s stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract. This is the moment when the cake truly starts to come together, adding color and moisture!
7. Combine dry and wet ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mix, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender cake, not a tough one!
8. Fold in the apples and pecans
Now, fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans. Just think about how delightful it’ll be to bite into those soft, sweet apples and crunchy pecans throughout the cake!
9. Pour into the bundt pan
Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula. It doesn’t have to be perfect; a little rustic charm is part of the beauty!
10. Bake the cake
Pop the bundt pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be pure bliss!
11. Cool in the pan
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial, as it helps the cake to set properly.
12. Invert and cool completely
Finally, invert the cake onto a wire rack and let it cool completely. Just look at all that wonderful steam rising, hinting at the deliciousness inside!
Why I Love Making This Dish
This Apple Pumpkin Pecan Bundt Cake holds a special place in my heart. Every time I bake it, I remember those family gatherings where we would sit around the table, sharing stories and laughter. Making it feels like a tradition, one that I’m proud to pass down to my children and grandchildren. The flavors of fall—pumpkin, apple, and warm spices—come together in such a beautiful way. It’s not just a cake; it’s a vessel of fond memories and joy!
What You’ll Need
Besides the ingredients, you’ll need a few special tools for this recipe:
- A bundt pan: Trust me, the shape adds such an appealing presentation.
- Mixing bowls: I like to have both medium and large bowls for this recipe.
- Whisk and spatula: Essential for mixing and folding in those lovely ingredients.
- A toothpick: For that all-important doneness test!
Tips for Perfect Results
-
Use fresh ingredients: Fresh eggs, apples, and pumpkin puree make a big difference in taste. If you can, use fresh pumpkin instead of canned!
-
Be gentle when folding: When you add the apples and pecans, be gentle to preserve the airiness of your batter.
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Cool the cake slowly: If you rush cooling, it can lead to a dense cake. It wants to breathe!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
This cake is delectable all on its own, but if you want to elevate your serving game, I have some ideas for you! A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream takes it to the next level. And if you want to get a little fancy, drizzle a bit of caramel or chocolate sauce over the top before serving. Delish!
Some of my favorite sides to serve with this cake include a fresh green salad or a warm bowl of soup. The contrast between the flavors really rounds out the meal!
Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my household!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate them, but allow the cake to come to room temperature before enjoying it again. I’ve found that it actually tastes just as good, if not better, the next day!
FAQ Section
Can I use more than one type of nut? Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with walnuts or even slivered almonds if that’s what you prefer. Just keep the total at 1 cup.
Can I use fresh pumpkin?
Yes! Just make sure it’s cooked and pureed before you use it in this recipe. It adds a lovely homemade touch.
What if I don’t have pecans?
No problem! You can substitute them with any nut you enjoy or leave them out entirely for a nut-free version.
Conclusion
This Apple Pumpkin Pecan Bundt Cake has warmed my heart and my kitchen for years, and I’m so excited for you to try it. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! Picture yourself enjoying a slice with a warm cup of tea or coffee, surrounded by loved ones. Let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time! Happy baking, friends!

Apple Pumpkin Pecan Bundt Cake
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Baking powder
- 1 tsp Baking soda
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp Ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp Salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 1 cup Brown sugar
- 1 cup Vegetable oil
- 4 large Eggs
- 1 cup Pumpkin puree
- 1 cup Peeled and diced apples
- 1 cup Chopped pecans
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease the bundt pan well to prevent sticking.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Beat until well combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mix, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the diced apples and chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
- Invert the cake onto a wire rack and let it cool completely.