Name: Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488124H21M48S
Total time: PT-488124H21M48S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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; 2 Honeycrisp apples, chopped (about 2 cups); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon vanilla; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons whole milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; Flaky sea salt, for topping

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This Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake is the perfect cozy dessert for fall or anytime you’re craving something warm, comforting, and full of cinnamon-apple flavor. Packed with tender chunks of Honeycrisp apples and topped with a sweet vanilla glaze, this cake is soft, moist, and bursting with layered textures and rich aromas.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple fritter cake captures all the goodness of a traditional apple fritter in a simple, sliceable cake form. It’s easy to prepare with just a few steps, and perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. The use of apple butter and Greek yogurt creates a super moist base, while the apple topping gives it that classic fritter texture. The vanilla glaze and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt bring the whole dish together with a perfect balance of sweet and salty.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cake:
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

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

Glaze:
1 cup powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoons whole milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Flaky sea salt

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×9-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the melted butter, brown sugar, apple butter, yogurt, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and well combined.
Add the flour, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
In a separate bowl, toss together the chopped apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla to create the apple filling.
Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Spoon half of the apple mixture over the batter.
Spread the remaining batter over the apples, then top with the rest of the apple mixture along with any juices.
Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan.
Meanwhile, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract to make the glaze. Add more milk if needed to achieve a drizzling consistency.
Drizzle the glaze over the slightly cooled cake and sprinkle with flaky sea salt. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

Servings: 9 generous squares or 12 smaller pieces
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Different Apples: Try using Fuji, Gala, or Granny Smith apples for a different flavor or texture.
Add Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can be added to the apple mixture for a crunch.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter for a deeper fall flavor.
Gluten-Free: Substitute a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend if needed.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free butter and yogurt alternatives.
Mini Loaves or Muffins: Bake the batter in mini loaf pans or muffin tins to create portable treats.
Maple Glaze: Swap the vanilla glaze for a maple syrup glaze for added autumn flavor.
Apple Cider Glaze: Mix apple cider with powdered sugar for a tangy twist.
Layer with Streusel: Add a streusel layer for more texture and crunch.
Top with Caramel: Replace the glaze with a drizzle of caramel sauce for a richer dessert.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or reheat in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes until warm.

FAQs

What are the best apples to use for this cake?

Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their balance of sweet and tart, but you can also use Granny Smith, Fuji, or Gala.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead. Store it covered at room temperature or refrigerate and glaze just before serving.

Is it possible to make this cake without eggs?

You can use egg replacements such as flax eggs or a commercial egg substitute, though the texture may vary slightly.

Can I use unsalted butter?

Yes, just add an extra pinch of salt (about 1/4 teaspoon) to balance the flavor.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust baking time to about 60–70 minutes.

What can I use instead of apple butter?

Applesauce or pumpkin butter are great substitutes, though they may slightly alter the flavor.

Can I skip the glaze?

You can, but the glaze adds sweetness and moisture. You might consider dusting the top with powdered sugar instead.

How should I store leftovers?

Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 5 days. Freeze for longer storage.

Can I bake this in a loaf pan?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the baking time and check for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

Glazed Honeycrisp Apple Fritter Cake is a warm, cozy, and delicious treat that brings the comfort of classic apple fritters into a simple baked cake. Whether served for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite during apple season and beyond. Its rich layers, soft texture, and sweet glaze make it an irresistible bake that’s both easy and impressive.