Apple Cake

Apple Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert filled with tender apple pieces, warm spices, and a soft, buttery crumb. This simple yet delicious cake is perfect for fall, but it’s a treat you’ll want to enjoy all year long. Whether served with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this apple cake is a delightful way to celebrate the season’s harvest.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and tender: Fresh apples keep the cake perfectly moist.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
• Warm and comforting: The perfect blend of cinnamon and apple.
• Versatile: Great for dessert, brunch, or a sweet snack.
• Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 2-3 medium apples)

Optional Topping

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions

Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
6. Fold in Apples: Gently fold in the diced apples until evenly distributed.

Bake the Cake

7. Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
8. Add Optional Topping: In a small bowl, mix granulated sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the batter.
9. Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serve

11. Slice and Enjoy: Serve the apple cake warm or at room temperature. Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12-16 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

• Caramel Apple Cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving.
• Nutty Addition: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.
• Glazed Apple Cake: Make a simple glaze with powdered sugar and milk to drizzle over the cooled cake.
• Apple Spice Cake: Increase the spices by adding ground ginger and allspice.
• Healthier Version: Use whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar by ¼ cup for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store apple cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy at room temperature.
• Freezing: Freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

FAQs

Can I use any type of apples for this recipe?

Yes, use firm, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn for the best flavor and texture.

Do I need to peel the apples?

Peeling the apples is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the peels on for added fiber and a rustic look.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend suitable for baking.

How do I make this cake dairy-free?

Substitute the butter with a dairy-free margarine and the sour cream with a non-dairy yogurt or applesauce.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, apple cake can be made a day in advance and stored at room temperature or refrigerated. The flavors deepen as it sits!

How do I prevent the apples from sinking to the bottom?

Coat the diced apples in a bit of flour before folding them into the batter.

Can I add raisins to the apple cake?

Yes, adding ½ cup of raisins or dried cranberries gives a nice burst of sweetness.

What if I don’t have sour cream or Greek yogurt?

You can substitute with buttermilk, plain yogurt, or unsweetened applesauce.

Can I make this recipe into muffins?

Yes, divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

How do I serve apple cake for breakfast?

Serve with a cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy it as a coffee cake or brunch treat.

Conclusion

Apple Cake is a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh flavors of fall, but it’s delicious any time of year. With its moist crumb, aromatic spices, and sweet apple bites, this cake is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether served as a dessert, a sweet snack, or a breakfast treat, this easy recipe delivers comfort and joy in every slice. Give it a try and savor the cozy flavors of homemade apple cake!

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