Gluten-Free Apple Spider Cake

This Gluten-Free Apple Spider Cake is a fun, easy, and spooky fall dessert that is perfect for Halloween parties, family gatherings, or a cozy October baking day. It starts with a gluten-free cinnamon crumb cake mix, then gets a simple apple twist from applesauce and a playful marshmallow spiderweb topping.

The cake is soft, warmly spiced, slightly fruity, and finished with a sweet, stretchy marshmallow web that makes it look festive without needing complicated decorating skills.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fun Halloween dessert idea
Gluten-free and easy to prepare
Made with a boxed crumb cake mix
Soft cinnamon apple flavor
Kid-friendly and party-ready
Simple marshmallow spiderweb decoration
Great for fall baking

Ingredients

1 package Krusteaz Gluten Free Cinnamon Swirl Crumb Cake Mix
1/4 cup water
1/3 cup applesauce
4 eggs
5 large marshmallows

How to Make Gluten-Free Apple Spider Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly grease your cake pan so the cake releases easily after baking.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the gluten-free cinnamon swirl crumb cake mix, applesauce, water, and eggs. Stir until the batter is smooth and everything is well blended.

Step 3: Add the First Layer

Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.

Step 4: Add the Cinnamon Swirl

Sprinkle half of the cinnamon topping from the cake mix over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, then finish with the rest of the cinnamon topping.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Bake according to the package directions, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool the Cake

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely before decorating. The marshmallow web will work best on a cooled cake.

Step 7: Make the Marshmallow Spiderweb

Place the marshmallows in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for about 25 seconds, just until they become soft and gooey.

Step 8: Decorate

Use a fork or clean fingers to gently stretch the melted marshmallow over the top of the cake, creating a spooky spiderweb effect.

Slice, serve, and enjoy.

Tips for Best Results

Let the cake cool fully before adding the marshmallow web.
Work quickly with the marshmallows while they are still warm and stretchy.
Lightly greasing your fingers can make the marshmallow easier to pull and stretch.
For a cleaner spiderweb look, stretch thin strands of marshmallow across the cake in different directions.
Serve the cake the same day for the freshest look and texture.

Storage

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

If refrigerated, let the cake sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving so the texture softens slightly.

Recipe Card

A soft, cinnamon-spiced gluten-free apple cake topped with a fun marshmallow spiderweb. Perfect for Halloween, fall parties, or a festive family dessert.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: About 40 minutes
Servings: 16

Ingredients

1 package Krusteaz Gluten Free Cinnamon Swirl Crumb Cake Mix
1/4 cup water
1/3 cup applesauce
4 eggs
5 large marshmallows

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a cake pan.
In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, applesauce, water, and eggs until combined.
Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan.
Sprinkle with half of the cinnamon topping. Add the remaining batter and top with the rest of the cinnamon topping.
Bake according to the package directions, or until fully baked.
Let the cake cool completely.
Microwave the marshmallows for about 25 seconds, until soft and gooey.
Stretch the melted marshmallow over the cake to create a spiderweb design.
Slice and serve.