There’s something so comforting about a soft, cinnamon-kissed apple cake—especially when it’s topped with toasted pecans and a sweet, simple glaze.
This glazed apple pecan snack cake is the kind of easy dessert I love baking on cool afternoons.
It’s tender, full of apple chunks, and just sweet enough to feel indulgent.
Whether served warm with coffee or packed up for a treat-on-the-go, it never lasts long in my kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Moist and flavorful – Tart apples and apple juice keep the cake soft and juicy.
Texture-rich – You get a soft crumb with the crunch of toasted pecans and blended oats.
Perfectly spiced – Cinnamon warms every bite, making it extra cozy.
Great for gatherings or snacking – Easy to cut, pack, and share.
Topped with glaze – The simple powdered sugar glaze adds that perfect finishing touch.
Ingredient Highlights
Granny Smith apples – Tart, firm, and ideal for baking without turning mushy.
Old-fashioned oats – Blended slightly for texture, adding fiber and heartiness.
All-purpose flour + baking soda – Gives the cake its soft rise and structure.
Cinnamon – Warm spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
Unsalted butter – For richness and buttery flavor.
Eggs – Bind everything and create a tender crumb.
Apple juice – Enhances the apple flavor and keeps the batter moist.
Pecans – Chopped and divided for crunch inside and on top.
Powdered sugar & milk – Simple glaze to finish it off with sweetness.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use fresh lemon juice – It keeps the apples vibrant and fresh-looking.
Pulse oats, don’t overblend – You want texture, not flour.
Room temperature ingredients – Make mixing easier and more even.
Fold gently – To keep the cake light and avoid overmixing.
Glaze when cool – So it doesn’t melt right off the top.
How to Make Glazed Apple Pecan Snack Cake
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. Set aside.
Step 2: Toss Apples with Lemon Juice
In a medium bowl, mix the cubed Granny Smith apples with lemon juice.
This prevents browning and keeps them fresh while you prep the batter.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
Add old-fashioned oats to a blender or food processor and pulse a few times to coarsely break them down.
In a separate bowl, combine the blended oats, all-purpose flour, baking soda, and ground cinnamon.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the vanilla extract, salt, and then the eggs, one at a time.
Step 5: Combine the Batter
Gently fold in half of the dry mixture. Add the apple juice and stir to combine.
Then fold in the remaining dry ingredients until just incorporated.
Stir in the lemon-coated apples and ½ cup chopped pecans.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining pecans over the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Glaze
Allow the cake to cool in the pan.
Meanwhile, mix powdered sugar with milk to form a smooth glaze.
Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake, then slice and serve!
What to Serve It With
A hot cup of black coffee or chai tea
Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for dessert
A dollop of yogurt for a sweet breakfast twist
Variations & Substitutions
Swap pecans for walnuts – If you prefer or already have them on hand.
Add dried cranberries or raisins – For extra sweetness and chew.
Make it gluten-free – Substitute your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour.
Use maple glaze – Swap milk for maple syrup in the glaze for added depth.
Storage & Leftovers
Room temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Fridge: Keeps well for up to 5 days if you prefer it chilled.
Freezer: Wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp.
FAQs
Can I use another type of apple?
Yes, but stick to firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady for best texture.
Do I need to peel the apples?
Yes, peeling is recommended so the cake has a smoother texture.
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned?
Old-fashioned oats give better texture, but quick oats can be used in a pinch.
What’s the best way to tell if it’s done?
Insert a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with moist crumbs.
Can I double the glaze?
Absolutely! If you love extra glaze, just double the powdered sugar and milk.
How sweet is this cake?
It’s gently sweet—not overpowering—so the glaze really shines through.
Can I skip the nuts?
Yes! Just leave them out or replace with something like sunflower seeds.
Final Thoughts
This glazed apple pecan snack cake is my go-to fall or anytime bake when I want something quick, cozy, and guaranteed to please.
The apples keep it moist, the pecans give it crunch, and that glaze? Always the crowd favorite.
It’s rustic, comforting, and so simple to make—I can’t wait for you to try it.
