Pumpkin Apple Cake

There’s something magical about the warm aromas of cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and freshly baked apples wafting from the kitchen. If you’re craving a cozy, comforting dessert that celebrates the best of autumn, this pumpkin apple cake is exactly what you need. It’s moist, tender, packed with fall flavors, and incredibly easy to put together — whether for a harvest party, Thanksgiving table, or a quiet evening with tea.

Why This Pumpkin Apple Cake Is the Perfect Fall Dessert

This cake brings together the rich, earthy flavor of pumpkin puree and the natural sweetness of apples, enhanced by aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. It has the perfect balance of moisture, texture, and fall essence — ideal for chilly days and festive gatherings.

Key Benefits of This Recipe:

Moist & Flavorful: Thanks to pumpkin and juicy apple chunks.
Easy to Make: No-fuss ingredients and minimal prep time.
Nutritious: A dose of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from real fruits.
Versatile: Perfect as a dessert, snack, or even breakfast treat.

Ingredients for Pumpkin Apple Cake

For the Cake:

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (or substitute whole wheat flour)
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon cloves
1 cup pumpkin puree (100% pure)
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1/2 cup vegetable oil or melted coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups chopped apples (peeled and diced)

Optional Toppings:

Powdered sugar
Caramel drizzle
Chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Whisk until well combined. This spiced blend forms the flavorful backbone of the cake.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine & Add Apples

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir gently until no flour streaks remain. Fold in the chopped apples, making sure they’re evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 38–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool & Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel before serving.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Apple Cake

Use fresh, crisp apples like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Granny Smith for a sweet-tart bite.
Do not overmix: This keeps the cake light and prevents it from becoming dense.
Let it rest: The flavor deepens once it cools down — great to make ahead for better taste.

Variations to Try

Add a streusel topping with brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and butter for a crumbly texture.
Make it gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour mix.
Switch the pan to a loaf or bundt style for different presentations.

Serving Suggestions

This autumn-inspired cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of apple cider, chai tea, or your favorite pumpkin spice latte. Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent finish.

Storing & Freezing

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a ziplock bag for up to 2 months. Just thaw and enjoy!

Internal Linking Suggestions

Anchor Text: homemade pumpkin puree → Link to your blog post on making pumpkin puree from scratch.
Anchor Text: easy fall dessert recipes → Link to a recipe roundup with autumn favorites.
Anchor Text: how to use leftover pumpkin puree → Link to tips on no-waste cooking with pumpkin.

External Resources

Nutritionix – for checking nutrition facts of ingredients.
Medical News Today – Benefits of Pumpkin
Bon Appétit – Baking techniques and seasonal guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion: Fall Baking at Its Best

This pumpkin apple cake is the perfect dessert to savor the best flavors of fall in every bite. Moist, spiced, and filled with tender apple bits, it’s comfort food at its finest. Whether you bake it for your family or a festive gathering, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Ready to bring autumn into your kitchen? Try this pumpkin apple cake today and don’t forget to share your creations by tagging us or leaving a comment with your favorite twist!

Looking for more seasonal bakes? Check out our collection of fall dessert recipes and get inspired!