Dessert

Honeycrisp Apple Cake That Will Brighten Your Fall Desserts Recipe

ByOlivia Monroe November 16, 2025November 16, 2025

Introduction

This Honeycrisp Apple Cake is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall. Featuring crisp, juicy apples and warm cardamom, it’s a moist, tender cake perfect for dessert or afternoon tea. The subtle lemon and walnut crumble topping adds a lovely texture and brightness.

A slice of crumb cake with three clear layers sits on a white plate that has a subtle pattern around the edge. The bottom layer is a light brown, slightly crumbly crust. The middle layer is a smooth, creamy yellow filling that looks soft and thick. The top layer is a thick, golden brown crumb topping with a rough, coarse texture and a light dusting of powdered sugar. A silver fork lies next to the cake on the right side of the plate. The scene is set on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups Honeycrisp apples, sliced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
3 eggs
1/2 cup whole milk (or cream)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon cardamom (or cinnamon)
1 cup ground walnuts (omit for nut-free)
1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar (optional, for dusting)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch springform pan.
Step 2: Slice the Honeycrisp apples and toss them with lemon juice in a medium bowl to prevent browning.
Step 3: In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to incorporate fully.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and cardamom.
Step 6: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, until just combined.
Step 7: Pour half the batter into the prepared pan, layer half the apples over it, then repeat with remaining batter and apples.
Step 8: Sprinkle the ground walnuts evenly over the top as a crumble layer.
Step 9: Bake for about 50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 10: Allow the cake to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before removing it from the pan. Dust with confectioner’s sugar if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a spiced variation, substitute the cardamom with cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth.
Use pecans instead of walnuts if you prefer a different nut flavor or want to change the texture.
For a vegan version, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and replace eggs with flax eggs.
To keep apples from sinking, toss them in a little flour before adding to the batter.

Storage

Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days. To refresh before serving, warm slices briefly in a microwave or oven. This cake also freezes well for up to 3 months when wrapped tightly.

How to Serve

A slice of crumb cake has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a dense, light brown cake base, the middle layer is a smooth, pale yellow custard, and the top layer is a chunky, crumbly streusel topping in light brown with a dusting of powdered sugar. The slice is placed slightly angled on a plain white plate with some crumbs scattered on the plate near the edges. A small silver fork rests on the right side of the plate. The background is a white marbled surface with soft natural light illuminating the dessert. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this cake?

Yes, though Honeycrisp apples are recommended for their balance of sweetness and tartness as well as their firmness. Other good options include Fuji, Granny Smith, or Gala apples.