Apple Cinnamon Bun Cake That Tastes Like Fall in Every Bite

Imagine the cozy flavors of warm cinnamon rolls and apple pie coming together in one luscious cake. This Apple Cinnamon Bun Cake combines tender baked apples, buttery cinnamon swirls, and a soft, moist crumb—all topped with a vanilla glaze that soaks into every delicious crevice. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a hug, perfect for chilly days or any time you’re craving a warm, sweet treat.

A Fall Favorite with a Twist

This cake takes inspiration from your favorite morning buns, but transforms them into a crowd-pleasing dessert or brunch centerpiece. The apple chunks bake into the batter for juicy pops of flavor, while the cinnamon sugar swirl mimics the gooey filling of classic cinnamon rolls. Topped with a simple glaze, every slice is melt-in-your-mouth magic.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk
2 medium apples, peeled and diced (Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work well)

For the Cinnamon Swirl:

1/3 cup brown sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 tablespoons melted butter

For the Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking dish. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla. Stir in sour cream and milk until combined. Gradually add in dry ingredients and mix until smooth. Fold in the diced apples gently.

Make the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, stir together brown sugar, cinnamon, and melted butter. Pour half the cake batter into the pan, swirl half of the cinnamon mixture on top. Repeat with the remaining batter and swirl in the rest of the cinnamon topping. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the top layer.

Bake to Perfection

Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly while you prepare the glaze.

Glaze and Serve

Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle generously over the warm cake so it seeps into the top and makes every bite extra gooey and sweet. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Optional Add-Ins

Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch
Mix in a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for deeper spice
Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert

Final Thoughts

Apple Cinnamon Bun Cake is everything you love about fall, baked into one glorious, cinnamon-laced pan. Perfect for holiday brunches, cozy weekends, or dessert nights that need something special. One slice and you’ll be hooked on its comforting flavors and buttery softness.