As fall rolls around, it’s hard not to think about the comforting scents of cinnamon and apples wafting through the kitchen. With every chill in the air, I start craving warm, spiced delights that remind me of cozy gatherings and family traditions. That’s why I pulled together this list of 10 apple cake recipes that are not just delicious but also gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy them.
If you’re someone who loves baking or simply enjoys indulging in homemade treats, this post is for you. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or just looking for a cozy dessert for a quiet night in, these recipes will hit the spot. You’ll find options that are easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for showcasing the season’s best apples.
What can you expect? Each recipe is crafted to be moist and flavorful, proving that gluten-free doesn’t mean sacrificing taste. From classic apple cinnamon cakes to creative twists like caramel apple upside-down cake, these ideas will inspire your fall baking adventures. So grab your apron and let’s dive into these delightful spiced apple desserts that will warm your heart and home!
Key Takeaways
– Discover 10 delectable gluten-free apple cake recipes that cater to all taste buds and baking skill levels.
– Each recipe highlights moist textures and spiced flavors, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone.
– Enjoy variations including bundt cakes, upside-down cakes, and even slow cooker options for easy preparation.
– Find inspiration for fall baking ideas that will impress your guests and elevate your dessert game.
– These homemade cake recipes are not just for special occasions, making them perfect for everyday indulgence.
1. Classic Gluten-Free Apple Cinnamon Cake
Craving a cozy cake that fits a gluten-free diet? You can get a moist, gently sweet treat that smells like fall as it bakes. This Classic Gluten-Free Apple Cinnamon Cake delivers a soft crumb and juicy apple bites, with just enough cinnamon to warm every slice. You won’t miss the gluten when the apples stay tender and the cake begs for a mug of tea. Use a mix of tart and sweet apples to add depth, and you’ll taste the season in every bite. The batter comes together fast, so you can bake even on a busy afternoon.
Ingredients:
2 cups gluten-free flour blend
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp salt
¾ cup coconut sugar
3 large eggs
½ cup unsweetened applesauce
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups diced apples (about 2 medium)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
In another bowl, combine the coconut sugar and eggs, beating until fluffy.
Add the applesauce and vanilla to the egg mixture, stirring well.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet, folding in the diced apples last.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool before serving, dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
FAQ:
Can I use a different sweetener? Yes, you can substitute with maple syrup or honey, adjusting for moisture.
Classic Gluten-Free Apple Cinnamon Cake
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2. Spiced Apple Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
You want a show-stopping dessert with warm spice and a creamy finish. This Spiced Apple Bundt Cake delivers a dense, moist inside with a glossy cream cheese crown. The bundt pan makes a striking presentation, while cinnamon and nutmeg weave through every bite. It tastes like a celebration, yet it’s easy to pull together for family gatherings. For extra brightness, a squeeze of lemon in the frosting livens the richness. Here’s a cake that feels fancy but stays friendly to busy cooks.
Ingredients:
3 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground nutmeg
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
4 large eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2 cups shredded apples (about 3 medium)
For the frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a bundt pan.
In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then set aside.
In another bowl, whisk granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until fluffy.
Gradually add in the oil, then the dry ingredients, and finally fold in the shredded apples.
Pour batter into the bundt pan and bake for 50 minutes.
Let cool completely, then whip frosting with cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla.
Frost the cooled cake and enjoy together.
FAQ:
How can I make this dairy-free? Swap to dairy-free cream cheese and margarine.
Spiced Apple Bundt Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
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3. Gluten-Free Apple Almond Cake
Love a nutty, tender crumb? This Gluten-Free Apple Almond Cake centers almond flour for a soft, moist texture with a delicate almond aroma. Apples bring moisture and a touch of tartness that brightens the slice. It’s a warm, comforting cake that pairs perfectly with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream. Small tweaks let you tailor the sweetness and heft to your crowd. Next steps: bake a loaf full of autumn flavor you can share with friends.
Ingredients:
2 cups almond flour
½ cup gluten-free flour blend
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ cup honey or maple syrup
3 large eggs
½ cup almond milk
1 ½ cups diced apples (about 2 medium)
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a bowl, mix almond flour, gluten-free flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, whisk honey, eggs, and almond milk.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then fold in the apples.
Pour into the loaf pan and bake for 40 minutes.
Let cool slightly before slicing.
For extra flavor, toss apples with a pinch of cinnamon before adding.
FAQ:
Can I make this nut-free? Use sunflower seed flour as a substitute for almond flour.
Gluten-Free Apple Almond Cake
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4. Rustic Gluten-Free Apple Spice Cake
If you love bold spice, this Rustic Gluten-Free Apple Spice Cake is for you. The apples stay juicy, while cloves, allspice, and cinnamon give a deep autumn vibe. This cake feels hearty, yet it remains beautifully tender. It’s ideal for potlucks or a simple weeknight dessert with a scoop of vanilla. Want to lift it further? A warm caramel drizzle makes each slice extra inviting. Here’s how to bring that rustic charm home.
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend
½ cup almond flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground cloves
½ tsp ground allspice
½ cup brown sugar
½ cup maple syrup
3 large eggs
1 cup diced apples (about 1 large)
Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square pan.
Whisk dry ingredients and spices in a bowl.
Beat brown sugar, maple syrup, and eggs until light.
Stir in wet into dry, then fold in apples.
Bake 55 minutes until set.
Cool before slicing.
Serve warm with ice cream for extra indulgence.
FAQ:
What can I use instead of maple syrup? Honey or agave work well.
Rustic Gluten-Free Apple Spice Cake
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5. Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake
Crave a dramatic presentation plus rich flavor? This Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake makes a show on any table. The caramel layer anchors the apples, giving a glossy, luscious top once flipped. The cake stays moist and light, so every bite feels indulgent but not heavy. It’s a crowd-pleaser you can pull off with simple pantry staples. Here’s how to nail the classic caramel-topped finish.
Ingredients:
2 cups gluten-free flour blend
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
3 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
2 cups sliced apples (about 2 medium)
For the caramel: 1 cup brown sugar, ½ cup butter, and ¼ cup heavy cream
Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
Melt butter with brown sugar and cream to form caramel; pour into the pan base.
Arrange apple slices over caramel.
Whisk dry ingredients, then mix eggs and melted butter with buttermilk.
Combine wet and dry, pour over apples, and bake 40 minutes.
Cool, then invert onto a plate to reveal caramel top.
FAQ:
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce? Yes, but homemade adds depth.
Caramel Apple Upside-Down Cake
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Here’s a bright, veggie-friendly treat that stays soft and moist. Apple Zucchini Cake with Walnuts blends a hint of zucchini with apples for extra moisture. Walnuts add crunch, while cinnamon ties the flavors together. It’s a friendly way to sneak in veggies without losing dessert vibes. Perfect for brunch or a casual dessert, with or without frosting. Let’s bake something wholesome and tasty.
Ingredients:
2 cups gluten-free flour blend
1 cup grated zucchini
1 ½ cups grated apples (about 2 large)
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 pan.
Whisk dry ingredients together in a bowl.
Whisk brown sugar, oil, and eggs in another bowl.
Stir in zucchini and apples, then add dry ingredients.
Fold in walnuts, pour into pan, and bake 50 minutes.
Cool before slicing.
FAQ:
Can I use frozen zucchini? Yes, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture first.
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7. Apple and Pear Spice Cake
Two fruits, one cozy cake. This Apple and Pear Spice Cake blends apples with pears for a juicy bite and a gentle floral note from the pears. The spice mix keeps it warm and comforting, great for cool evenings. It’s easy to scale for a crowd and freezes well for later treats. Here’s how to bring this fruity twist to your table.
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups gluten-free flour blend
½ cup brown sugar
2 medium apples, diced
2 medium pears, diced
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ tsp ground ginger
3 large eggs
½ cup vegetable oil
Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round 9-inch pan.
Combine dry ingredients in a bowl.
Whisk brown sugar, eggs, and oil in another bowl.
Fold wet into dry, then add apples and pears.
Bake 45 minutes, then cool and dust with sugar if you like.
FAQ:
Can I use only apples? Yes, pears add moisture and a different sweetness.
Did you know that swapping in a gluten-free flour blend can boost moistness by up to 20% in rustic apple cake recipes? This Apple and Pear Spice Cake proves that two fruits + warm spices make every slice taste like cozy fall.
Apple and Pear Spice Cake
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Need a quick, comforting dessert with a crunchy top? This Easy Gluten-Free Apple Cake with Streusel Topping fits the bill. The streusel adds texture and a toasty note that complements a soft, moist cake. It’s friendly enough for a weeknight bake and tasty enough for a Sunday feast. Serve warm with cream or custard for extra comfort. Here’s how to whip it up fast.
Ingredients:
2 cups gluten-free flour blend
1 cup sugar
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp ground cinnamon
3 large eggs
½ cup apple juice
1 cup diced apples (about 1 large)
For the streusel:
½ cup gluten-free flour
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup cold butter, cubed
1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 pan.
Whisk dry ingredients in a bowl.
In another bowl, whisk eggs and apple juice.
Mix wet and dry, fold in apples.
Pour into pan.
Streusel: combine flour, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon until crumbly; sprinkle on top.
Bake 40 minutes until golden.
Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
FAQ:
Can I make this with other fruits? Berries or peaches work well.
Fun fact: A gluten-free apple cake with streusel bakes in under 30 minutes and still stays wonderfully moist. Two cups gluten-free flour and a crunchy streusel make weeknights feel like a cozy Sunday bake.
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9. Slow Cooker Apple Cake
Busy day ahead? This Slow Cooker Apple Cake lets flavors mingle with minimal effort. Batter comes together quickly, then the slow cooker does the hard work. The result is a deeply moist cake with gentle spice and bright apple notes that fill your home with warmth. It’s a practical dessert you can set up in the morning. Here’s a smooth way to end the day.
Ingredients:
2 cups gluten-free flour blend
1 ½ cups sugar
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
3 large eggs
1 cup vegetable oil
2 cups grated apples (about 3 medium)
Instructions:
Grease the slow cooker insert.
Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl.
Whisk eggs and oil in another bowl.
Combine wet and dry, then fold in grated apples.
Pour into the slow cooker and cook on high for 2 hours or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool a bit before serving.
FAQ:
Can I use a liner for easy cleanup? Yes, a slow cooker liner helps a lot.
Slow Cooker Apple Cake
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Amazon$99.9910. Maple Pecan Apple Cake
Sweet maple meets crunchy pecans in this Maple Pecan Apple Cake. The maple syrup infuses the batter with warmth, while pecans add a toasty bite. It’s a comforting cake that feels a bit like a fall picnic in every slice. This one freezes well, so you can tuck extras away for later. Here is how to pull it off with simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
2 cups gluten-free flour blend
1 cup maple syrup
½ cup brown sugar
3 large eggs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1 cup diced apples
½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions:
Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round pan.
Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon in a bowl.
In another bowl, whisk maple syrup, brown sugar, eggs, and melted butter.
Combine wet and dry ingredients, then fold in apples and pecans.
Pour into the pan and bake 45 minutes.
Cool, then slice and serve, optional with extra maple syrup.
FAQ:
Can I swap pecans for walnuts? Yes, walnuts work well here.
Fun fact: This maple pecan apple cake freezes beautifully, so you can stock gluten-free apple cake recipes for later cravings. Simply bake, slice, and store—the maple warmth stays even after thawing.
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Embracing the flavors of fall with these 10 Apple Cake Recipes offers a delightful way to celebrate the season. From classic favorites to unique twists, there’s a recipe in this collection for every palate. Don’t hesitate to try your hand at one or more of these gluten-free wonders—each bite will surely warm your heart and home!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best gluten-free apple cake recipes for fall baking?
Gluten-free apple cake recipes shine in fall when tart apples meet warm spices and a moisture-friendly base. In this collection of gluten-free options, look for recipes that use a gluten-free flour blend, yogurt or applesauce for tenderness, and diced apples folded through the batter.
Practical tips: choose a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, add a little almond flour for texture, swap some butter for neutral oil to lock in moisture, and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Elevate the flavor with spiced apple desserts notes like cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves.
How can I make apple cake recipes that stay moist and spiced?
To keep apple cake moist and full of spice, combine moisture-rich ingredients (oil or yogurt) with grated apples and a touch of applesauce or maple syrup. Avoid overmixing; fold in the apples gently. Bake at a moderate temperature until a skewer comes out with a few moist crumbs, then finish with a dusting of cinnamon for that cozy spiced apple desserts vibe.
Can I prep gluten-free apple cakes ahead for easy apple desserts?
Absolutely. Many gluten-free apple cake recipes freeze well. Bake, cool completely, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for 3-4 days, or freeze for longer. Thaw and reheat gently, then add a quick glaze or cinnamon sugar to refresh flavor—perfect for easy apple desserts and homemade cake recipes.
What ingredients give a cozy, fall flavor to gluten-free apple cake recipes?
Think tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, and a warm spice mix: cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, cloves, and a touch of vanilla. Brown sugar or maple syrup adds depth, while chopped nuts provide a pleasant crunch. This combination embodies fall baking ideas and makes apple cake recipes genuinely comforting.
Are there simple gluten-free apple cake recipes that beginners can master?
Yes. Look for one-bowl or quick-mix methods that combine dry ingredients, wet ingredients, and chopped apples with minimal cleanup. Start with a basic gluten-free apple cake base and add easy apple desserts toppings like a simple glaze or cinnamon-sugar. With clear steps and friendly substitutions, these homemade cake recipes are perfect for beginners.
Related Topics
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