17+ Simple Cake Recipes for Fall

As the leaves start to change colors and the air turns crisp, there’s something magical about baking in the fall. The season brings with it a palette of warm flavors and cozy spices that make cakes irresistibly comforting.

Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake from Cake by Courtney

Rating: 4.9.

Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Apple Cider Doughnut Cake from Princess Pinky Girl

Rating: 4.8.

Apple Cider Doughnut Cake

Apple Cider Doughnut Cake from The Pioneer Woman

Rating: 3.8. Total Time: 1 h 5 min.

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Imagine the sweet and spicy aroma of fresh apple cider doughnuts wafting through your kitchen. This cake captures that essence with its moist, tender crumb infused with apple cider and a blend of cinnamon and nutmeg.

This recipe is special because it takes the classic fall treat, apple cider doughnuts, and transforms it into a cake that’s perfect for sharing. The key ingredient, apple cider, not only adds flavor but also keeps the cake moist. A dusting of cinnamon sugar on top adds a delightful crunch that mimics the texture of a doughnut. It’s the kind of cake that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect with a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake

Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Pumpkin Bundt Cake from Southern Living

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 1 hr 10 min.

Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Pumpkin Bundt Cake from Sally's Baking Addiction

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 4 hr 30 min.

Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake

Pumpkin Spice Bundt Cake from Lovely Little Kitchen

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 1 hr.

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Nothing says fall quite like the rich, earthy flavor of pumpkin. This bundt cake combines pumpkin puree with cinnamon, ginger, and cloves to create a perfectly spiced masterpiece that’s both moist and flavorful.

Pumpkin spice is not just a trend; it’s a beloved flavor that represents fall in a single bite. The bundt cake shape makes it elegant enough for any occasion, while the use of real pumpkin puree gives it a natural sweetness and a dense, moist texture. Topped with a simple glaze or a dusting of powdered sugar, this cake is both easy to make and impressive to serve. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season and satisfy your pumpkin cravings.

Maple Pecan Cake

Maple, apple & pecan cake

Maple, apple & pecan cake from Good Food

Rating: 4. Total Time: 1 h 10 min.

Maple Pecan Cake

Maple Pecan Cake from Bakers Table

Total Time: 58 min.

Maple and pecan cake

Maple and pecan cake from a fork and a pencil

Rating: 5.

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Embrace the rich, nutty flavors of fall with this delightful maple pecan cake. Made with pure maple syrup and crunchy pecans, this cake is a sweet tribute to autumn’s bounty.

What makes this cake stand out is the harmony between the maple syrup and pecans. The syrup infuses the cake with a deep, sugary flavor that complements the buttery, slightly bitter taste of the pecans. A cream cheese frosting with a hint of maple adds a creamy finish, making each bite a balance of sweet and savory. This cake is a true celebration of fall’s flavors, perfect for any gathering or just as a treat for yourself.

Gingerbread Cake

Gingerbread Cake

Gingerbread Cake from Tastes Better From Scratch

Rating: 5. Total Time: 55 min.

Old-Fashioned Gingerbread Cake

Old-Fashioned Gingerbread Cake from Big Kitchen Dreams

Rating: 5.

Old Fashioned Gingerbread Cake

Old Fashioned Gingerbread Cake from Crosby's Molasses

Rating: 5. Total Time: 1 h 10 min.

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If you love the warm, spicy notes of gingerbread, this cake will be your new favorite. With a blend of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses, it captures the essence of the holiday season in every bite.

Gingerbread isn’t just for cookies; this cake proves that the flavors are just as delicious in a moist and tender cake form. The molasses adds a deep, rich undertone, while the spices give it that familiar gingerbread warmth. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and you’ve got a dessert that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little spice in their sweets, making it a great choice for fall and winter gatherings alike.

Spiced Pear Cake

Spiced Pear Cake with Cardamom

Spiced Pear Cake with Cardamom from True North Kitchen

Rating: 5. Total Time: 1 hr 20 min.

Spiced Pear Cake

Spiced Pear Cake from Entertaining with Beth

Rating: 4.4. Total Time: 1 hr 15 min.

Pear Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting

Pear Spice Cake with Brown Butter Frosting from The Cozy Plum

Rating: 5. Total Time: 2 hr.

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Pears are an often-overlooked fruit for fall baking, but this cake puts them in the spotlight. With chunks of ripe pears and a hint of cardamom, it’s a moist and fragrant cake that’s sure to impress.

What sets this cake apart is the use of fresh pears, which add natural sweetness and moisture. Cardamom, a less common but incredibly aromatic spice, pairs beautifully with the pears, adding a unique flavor profile that’s both exotic and comforting. The result is a cake that’s tender, flavorful, and pleasantly different from the usual fall desserts. It’s a wonderful way to showcase the versatility of pears and introduce a new favorite to your fall baking repertoire.

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread from Tastes Better From Scratch

Rating: 4.9. Total Time: 55 min.

My Best Pumpkin Bread

My Best Pumpkin Bread from Sally's Baking Addiction

Rating: 4.8. Total Time: 1 hr 15 min.

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread from Allrecipes

Rating: 4.8. Total Time: 1 hr 20 min.

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This cake-like bread combines the best of both worlds: the creamy richness of chocolate and the earthy sweetness of pumpkin. It’s a match made in fall heaven that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Unlike traditional pumpkin bread, this version includes chocolate chips, which melt into gooey pockets of sweetness throughout the bread. The pumpkin keeps the bread moist and adds a subtle spice, while the chocolate adds a touch of luxury. It’s the kind of treat that’s perfect for dessert or a special breakfast. Plus, it’s easy to make, and the smell alone as it bakes will make your home feel warm and inviting. It’s a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of the season with a tasty twist.

Pro Tricks for Amazing Fall Cakes

Cranberry Apple Upside Down Cake

Cranberry Apple Upside Down Cake from Sally's Baking Addiction

Rating: 4.3. Total Time: 1 h 30 min.

Autumn cake recipes

Autumn cake recipes from Good Food

21 autumn cake ideas

21 autumn cake ideas from Olive Magazine

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Use Fresh Ingredients

Fresh ingredients make all the difference in baking. Opt for fresh spices over pre-ground ones when possible, and use real pumpkin puree instead of the canned variety for a more authentic flavor.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix your ingredients until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture. This is especially important when adding flour to the batter.

Let Cakes Cool Completely

Patience is key! Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting or slicing. This helps the flavors develop fully and ensures your cake holds together when served.