If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a dessert that feels like a warm hug from fall itself, you need to know about this Apple Pie Cake (Milk Bar Style) Recipe. Imagine layers of moist brown butter vanilla cake soaked in apple cider, interspersed with luscious homemade apple pie filling, rich liquid cheesecake, and buttery pie crumbs that add the perfect crunch. This cake captures everything you love about classic apple pie but presents it in a fun, unexpected, and utterly indulgent way. It’s an absolute showstopper that’s surprisingly manageable to make — and once you do, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a selection of baking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. There are three fresh green apples placed near the bottom left corner. To their right, there is a bunch of six brown eggs in a white carton. Above the eggs, there are four pale yellow sticks of butter stacked. To the left of the butter, four white blocks of cream cheese sit on a small white plate. Various clear glass bowls are spread around containing different ingredients: white flour at the bottom left, brown sugar in the center, powdered sugar at the top right, and granulated white sugar slightly below the brown sugar. Smaller bowls hold cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Additionally, there is a small glass of amber liquid and a small glass of white liquid near the bottom. The overall arrangement is clean and organized, highlighting the individual ingredients clearly. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Apple Pie Cake (Milk Bar Style) Recipe calls for some simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. Each item plays a special role, from the brown butter adding a nutty depth to the cake, to the tart Granny Smith apples bringing brightness in every bite.

Salted butter: Browned for the cake’s nutty flavor and softened for a creamy frosting base.
Granulated and light brown sugar: Both types provide sweetness and moisture, balancing richness and tanginess.
Eggs: Room temperature eggs help bind the batter and add richness.
Pure vanilla extract: Essential for a warm, inviting aroma and depth of flavor in the cake.
Buttermilk: Adds acidity that tenderizes the cake crumb and enhances flavor.
Vegetable or canola oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
Cake flour: Provides a delicate, soft texture perfect for layering.
Baking powder and salt: To ensure proper rise and seasoning balance.
All-purpose flour: For the pie crumbs that add an irresistible buttery crunch.
Water: Helps bind the pie crumb clusters.
Cream cheese: Full-fat for the luscious liquid cheesecake filling.
Cornstarch: Stabilizes the cheesecake and apple fillings.
Milk: Adds creaminess especially in the cheesecake filling and frosting.
Granny Smith apples: Tart, crisp apples that hold their texture perfectly when cooked.
Ground cinnamon: Brings that cozy apple pie spice flavor.
Apple cider: Used to soak the cake layers, infusing an extra layer of fall flavor.
Powdered sugar: Creates a smooth, sweet pie crumb frosting topping.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Apple Pie Cake (Milk Bar Style) Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Butter and Prepare Cake Batter

First things first, brown four tablespoons of the salted butter for the cake; this brings a warm, nutty richness that elevates every bite. While you’re browning the butter, make sure to stir frequently and watch closely to avoid burning. Once browned, let it cool. In a large bowl, combine the remaining softened butter, the cooled brown butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat these together until light and silky. Adding eggs and vanilla one at a time helps the batter come together smooth and fluffy. With the mixer running on low, slowly pour in the buttermilk and oil. After they’re incorporated, crank up the speed to medium-high and mix for about five minutes to incorporate air, which gives the cake its light texture.

Step 2: Incorporate Dry Ingredients and Bake

Whisk together your cake flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl, then gradually add these to the wet mixture on low speed, just until combined to ensure a tender crumb. Divide the batter evenly into three 8-inch pans lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350℉ for about 22-26 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out mostly clean but with a few moist crumbs clinging. The golden tops will tell you it’s time!

Step 3: Make the Pie Crumbs

For those magical pie crumbs, mix all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt, then stir in the melted butter and water by hand until clumps form. Spread these clusters on a baking sheet and bake at 350℉ while stirring halfway through for a golden, buttery crunch. These crumbs offer a brilliant textural contrast that makes this Apple Pie Cake (Milk Bar Style) Recipe so special.

Step 4: Whip Up the Cheesecake Filling

Lower the oven temperature to 300℉. Beat room temperature cream cheese with sugar until smooth, then add cornstarch, salt, milk, and eggs, whipping until silky smooth but careful not to overmix. Pour the filling into a loaf pan and bake for 20-24 minutes just until the edges set but the center remains slightly jiggly. This liquid cheesecake is creamy and indulgent, balancing the fruit and crumb layers delightfully.

Step 5: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling

Peel and dice Granny Smith apples into bite-sized cubes, then cook them gently with butter, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and salt. Simmer just until softened but still holding some texture, capturing the perfect fresh pie experience in every spoonful. Let this cool fully before assembly.

Step 6: Create the Pie Crust Frosting and Cider Soak

Blend a portion of the pie crumbs with milk and salt until smooth, then beat with softened butter and powdered sugar for a frosting that’s light, creamy, and packed with buttery flavor. For the apple cider soak, whisk cider, brown sugar, and cinnamon together — this soak works wonders, keeping the cake moist and fragrant with cozy spice notes.

Step 7: Assembly Magic

Layering is where the fun really begins! Place one cake layer on parchment, wrap with an acetate collar for neat edges, and brush with a generous portion of cider soak. Layer half of the cheesecake filling, then half the apple filling, then one-third of the pie crumbs. Repeat the process for the second layer. Top with the third cake layer, soak it well, and finish by spreading the pie crust frosting evenly over the surface. Sprinkle with remaining pie crumbs for that irresistible final touch. Freeze the cake for 12 hours to let flavors marry and hold shape, then thaw for a few hours before slicing to get the perfect texture.

How to Serve Apple Pie Cake (Milk Bar Style) Recipe

A small pizza sits on a white marbled surface inside a clear glass baking dish. The pizza has two layers: the bottom layer is golden brown dough, and the top layer is covered with melted cheese and small pieces of browned sausage. The cheese looks soft and slightly bubbly, while the sausage pieces add a bit of brown color and rough texture. The pizza looks freshly baked with a shiny surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnish this cake with extra cinnamon-dusted pie crumbs or thin apple slices arranged on top for a rustic yet elegant look. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a snowy finish that’s visually stunning and extra sweet.

Side Dishes

This Apple Pie Cake (Milk Bar Style) Recipe shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. For a cozy vibe, serve alongside a warm cup of spiced cider or freshly brewed coffee.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual slices in clear glass dessert cups layered with some extra whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel to showcase each decadent element. Mini versions of this cake in mason jars make adorable gifts or party favors that will wow your friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once assembled, store your Apple Pie Cake (Milk Bar Style) Recipe in the refrigerator for up to five days. Bringing it to room temperature before serving ensures you enjoy the best moist, tender cake texture and those melt-in-your-mouth cheesecake layers.

Freezing

This cake freezes exceptionally well. For longer storage, flash freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight freezer container. It holds its flavor and texture for up to two months, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert.

Reheating

Let frozen slices thaw at room temperature for about an hour. If you want to warm it slightly, a few seconds in the microwave (about 15-20 seconds) will do, but avoid overheating to keep the texture just right.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for the filling?

Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness and firm texture, but you can experiment with other baking apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn. Just make sure they hold up well when cooked so your filling isn’t mushy.

Is it necessary to brown the butter?

Yes! Browning the butter adds a wonderful nutty richness and depth that’s a hallmark of this Apple Pie Cake (Milk Bar Style) Recipe. It’s a little step that makes a big difference in flavor.

How long does the cheesecake filling need to cool?

After baking, cool the cheesecake filling completely at room temperature, then refrigerate it to firm up fully. This helps when assembling the layers to keep everything stable.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

While this recipe uses cake flour and all-purpose flour, you can try substituting a gluten-free baking blend designed for cakes. Keep in mind that texture might vary, so some experimentation may be necessary.

What does the cider soak do?

The apple cider soak infuses the cake layers with moisture and a subtle, spiced apple flavor, keeping the cake tender and flavorful for every bite. It’s a small step that transforms the overall experience.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Apple Pie Cake (Milk Bar Style) Recipe enough if you want to impress yourself and your friends with an unforgettable dessert. It perfectly combines familiar comforting flavors with innovative layers and textures that are a joy to eat. Don’t hesitate to enjoy making it — the assembly is half the fun! Trust me, once you try this rich, tender, and crunchy combo, it’ll become a new favorite you’ll want to make again and again.