Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake

There’s something magical about the smell of freshly baked goods wafting through the house, and nothing captures that essence quite like Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake. I remember the first time I made this cake; it was a crisp autumn afternoon, and the leaves were just beginning to turn golden. My kitchen was filled with the warmth of butter and sugar, mingling with the sweet aroma of apples, creating an inviting space that felt like home. The blend of creamy cream cheese and tart apples creates a perfect harmony of flavors, leaving a delightful swirl in every bite that makes my heart sing. I often bake this for family gatherings and special occasions, and every time, it disappears faster than I can take it out of the oven. It’s not just a cake; it’s a celebration of the season and a timeless recipe that brings people together.

Ingredients Overview for Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake

When it comes to baking, the right ingredients can make all the difference. In the Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake, each component plays a crucial role in creating a delightful flavor and texture. The combination of butter, sugars, and eggs forms the foundational batter, while the apples and cream cheese provide that signature swirl. Together, they create a cake that is not only delicious but also visually stunning.

• 1 cup (227 grams) unsalted butter, softened: This creates a rich base, contributing to the cake’s moist texture.
• 1 cup (220 grams) granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with the cake’s rise.
• 1/3 cup (73 grams) firmly packed light brown sugar: Enhances the flavor with a hint of caramel.
• 3 large eggs (150 grams), room temperature: Binds the ingredients together for a structured cake.
• 1 teaspoon (4 grams) vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a warm, inviting aroma.
• 2 large firm sweet apples (578 grams), peeled and cored: Provide natural sweetness and moisture.
• 3 cups (375 grams) all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, giving it structure.
• 2 teaspoons (10 grams) baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• 2 teaspoons (4 grams) ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy flavor that pairs well with apples.
• 3/4 teaspoon (2.25 grams) kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon (1 gram) ground ginger: Adds a zesty kick that complements the apples.
• 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 grams) baking soda: Works alongside baking powder for a perfect rise.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Provides a warm, spicy note that enhances the overall flavor.
• 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened: Creates a creamy swirl that makes this cake special.
• 1/4 cup (30 grams) confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese filling.
• 1 tablespoon (8 grams) all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cream cheese mixture.
• 1 large egg yolk (19 grams), room temperature: Enriches the cream cheese filling.
• 1 cup (120 grams) confectioners’ sugar: For the glaze that tops the cake.
• 3 tablespoons (45 grams) heavy whipping cream: Adds richness to the glaze.
• 1 tablespoon (21 grams) light corn syrup: Gives the glaze a smooth texture.
• Toasted pecans: For garnish, adding a crunchy finish.

Recipe Directions for Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake

Making the Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake is a delightful experience. The process may seem lengthy, but each step is simple and enjoyable. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delicious cake!

1. For the cream cheese swirl, take a medium bowl and beat the cream cheese with a mixer at medium speed until creamy. This should take about two minutes. Once it’s smooth, add the confectioners’ sugar, flour, and egg yolk. Beat until everything is combined and smooth. Don’t forget to stop and scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed well. Cover this mixture and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it.

2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the cake. A well-preheated oven is key for achieving that perfect rise.

3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter and both sugars. Beat at medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about two to three minutes. Scraping the sides of the bowl occasionally ensures even mixing and helps create a light texture.

4. Now, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps the eggs incorporate fully into the batter, ensuring a smooth mixture. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until blended.

5. Using the large holes of a box grater, shred the apples. Make sure to coarsely chop the shredded apples to break down the pieces. This will ensure they distribute evenly throughout the batter. Add the chopped apples to the batter and mix at low speed until combined. The batter should be thick, but you’ll see the lovely chunks of apple throughout.

6. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, kosher salt, ground ginger, baking soda, and nutmeg. This step helps distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly in your cake. Gradually add this flour mixture to the apple mixture while beating on low speed. Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

7. Prepare a 10-cup Bundt pan by spraying it with baking spray that contains flour. This is essential for ensuring the cake releases easily without sticking. Spoon about two-thirds of the batter (approximately four cups or 965 grams) into the prepared pan.

8. Now, using a small rubber spatula or the back of a spoon, create a trench in the batter within the pan, avoiding the edges. This is where you’ll spoon in the cream cheese swirl mixture. Carefully layer the swirl mixture into the trench, spreading it evenly.

9. Top with the remaining batter, smoothing it over the swirl mixture. Take a knife and gently pull the blade back and forth through the batter to create a lovely swirl pattern. This creates that beautiful marbled effect. Firmly tap the pan on a kitchen towel-lined counter seven to ten times to settle the batter and release any air bubbles.

10. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for one hour and five minutes to one hour and ten minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a wooden pick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. Once done, let the cake cool in the pan for ten minutes.

11. After ten minutes, carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack, allowing it to cool completely. This ensures the cake maintains its shape and texture.

12. While the cake cools, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, heavy whipping cream, and light corn syrup until smooth. This glaze will add a sweet finishing touch to your cake. Once the cake is completely cool, spoon the glaze onto the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. If desired, garnish with toasted pecans for added crunch and flavor.

13. Lastly, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

Recipe Notes about Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake

This cake not only tastes divine, but it also presents beautifully, making it perfect for any gathering. Here are some tips to enhance your experience:

• Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh for up to three days. It can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
• Freezing: You can freeze slices of the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
• Pairing: This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it a great choice for afternoon gatherings.
• Serving size: A slice of this cake is rich, so cut generous but manageable portions.
• Garnish: If desired, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of confectioners’ sugar for an extra touch before serving.

Perfect Pairings for Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake

When it’s time to serve your delicious Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake, consider the following ideas to enhance your experience:

• Pair with warm beverages: Serve slices alongside hot coffee or spiced cider for a comforting afternoon treat.
• Garnish with fresh fruits: Complement the cake with slices of fresh apples or berries for a refreshing contrast.
• Occasions: This cake is perfect for fall gatherings, birthday celebrations, or as a delightful dessert during the holidays.
• Storage tips: If you have leftovers, make sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Seasonal pairings: This cake shines during the fall, but it can also be enjoyed year-round if you can find sweet apples.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake is a delightful blend of flavors that truly captures the essence of fall. With its creamy swirl and sweet apple chunks, it’s a cake that can easily become a family favorite. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones and celebrating special moments. Enjoy every slice and savor the deliciousness!

Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake

Indulge in the rich flavors of the Apple Cream Cheese Swirl Bundt Cake, where sweet apples meet creamy cheese in a delightful swirl. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Experience the magic of fall flavors in every slice and make it a staple for your dessert table!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar
• 1/3 cup Light Brown Sugar
• 3 large Eggs
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
• 2 large Sweet Apples peeled and cored
• 3 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
• 2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
• 4 ounces Cream Cheese
• 1/4 cup Confectioners' Sugar
• 1 tablespoon All-Purpose Flour
• 1 large Egg Yolk
• 1 cup Confectioners' Sugar
• 3 tablespoons Heavy Whipping Cream
• 1 tablespoon Light Corn Syrup
• Toasted Pecans

Equipment

• Grater
• Oven
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Peeler
• Whisk
• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl

Method

 

1. For the cream cheese swirl, take a medium bowl and beat the cream cheese with a mixer at medium speed until creamy. This should take about two minutes. Once it’s smooth, add the confectioners’ sugar, flour, and egg yolk. Beat until everything is combined and smooth. Don’t forget to stop and scrape the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is mixed well. Cover this mixture and refrigerate until you’re ready to use it.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake the cake. A well-preheated oven is key for achieving that perfect rise.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter and both sugars. Beat at medium-high speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about two to three minutes. Scraping the sides of the bowl occasionally ensures even mixing and helps create a light texture.
4. Now, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps the eggs incorporate fully into the batter, ensuring a smooth mixture. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until blended.
5. Using the large holes of a box grater, shred the apples. Make sure to coarsely chop the shredded apples to break down the pieces. This will ensure they distribute evenly throughout the batter. Add the chopped apples to the batter and mix at low speed until combined. The batter should be thick, but you’ll see the lovely chunks of apple throughout.
6. In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, kosher salt, ground ginger, baking soda, and nutmeg. This step helps distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly in your cake. Gradually add this flour mixture to the apple mixture while beating on low speed. Mix just until combined; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
7. Prepare a 10-cup Bundt pan by spraying it with baking spray that contains flour. This is essential for ensuring the cake releases easily without sticking. Spoon about two-thirds of the batter (approximately four cups or 965 grams) into the prepared pan.
8. Now, using a small rubber spatula or the back of a spoon, create a trench in the batter within the pan, avoiding the edges. This is where you’ll spoon in the cream cheese swirl mixture. Carefully layer the swirl mixture into the trench, spreading it evenly.
9. Top with the remaining batter, smoothing it over the swirl mixture. Take a knife and gently pull the blade back and forth through the batter to create a lovely swirl pattern. This creates that beautiful marbled effect. Firmly tap the pan on a kitchen towel-lined counter seven to ten times to settle the batter and release any air bubbles.
10. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for one hour and five minutes to one hour and ten minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a wooden pick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. Once done, let the cake cool in the pan for ten minutes.
11. After ten minutes, carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack, allowing it to cool completely. This ensures the cake maintains its shape and texture.
12. While the cake cools, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, heavy whipping cream, and light corn syrup until smooth. This glaze will add a sweet finishing touch to your cake. Once the cake is completely cool, spoon the glaze onto the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. If desired, garnish with toasted pecans for added crunch and flavor.
13. Lastly, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze slices of the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months.
• Tip 3: Serve slices alongside hot coffee or spiced cider for a comforting afternoon treat.
• Tip 4: A slice of this cake is rich, so cut generous but manageable portions.
• Tip 5: If desired, add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a dusting of confectioners' sugar for an extra touch before serving.

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Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.