There’s something about the warm, cinnamon-kissed aroma of Apple Cake baking in the oven that just feels like a hug for your senses. This cake is soft, moist, and packed with juicy apple chunks in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy afternoon treat, a holiday dessert, or even a sweet breakfast (because why not?), trust me—you’re going to love this one.
With simple ingredients and an easy prep, this cake is perfect for bakers of all levels. It’s the kind of recipe that feels nostalgic, like something grandma used to make, but with a touch of modern ease. Grab your apples, and let’s bake something delicious!
Why You’ll Love Apple Cake
Versatile
Enjoy it as a dessert, a coffee cake for brunch, or even as a snack. It pairs beautifully with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Budget-Friendly
Apples are affordable and available year-round, making this a cost-effective treat. Plus, you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry!
Quick and Easy
No complicated steps here! Just mix, bake, and enjoy. The hardest part is waiting for it to cool before digging in.
Customizable
Swap the apples for pears, add nuts for extra crunch, or spice it up with nutmeg and cardamom. You can even make it gluten-free with the right flour swap.
Crowd-Pleasing
This cake is a guaranteed hit with family and friends. The soft, spiced cake with tender apples makes it irresistible for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Apple Cake
This cake is packed with warm spices, juicy apples, and just the right amount of sweetness. Here’s what makes it so delicious:
Apples
The star of the show! Choose crisp, slightly tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
Flour
Gives the cake its soft and fluffy structure. You can use all-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend.
Sugar
Adds the perfect sweetness. A mix of white and brown sugar creates a deeper caramel-like flavor.
Eggs
Help bind everything together and give the cake a tender texture.
Butter or Oil
Keeps the cake moist and rich. You can use melted butter for a more traditional flavor or oil for an ultra-soft crumb.
Cinnamon
Brings warmth and spice, complementing the natural sweetness of the apples.
Baking Powder
Helps the cake rise and stay light and fluffy.
Vanilla Extract
Enhances all the flavors with a subtle, sweet aroma.
Nuts (Optional)
Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and extra depth of flavor.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to the right temperature. This ensures even baking and a perfectly fluffy cake.
Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces. Toss them with a little cinnamon and sugar to bring out their natural sweetness.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed.
Beat the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and melted butter (or oil) until smooth and well combined.
Combine Everything
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! Fold in the chopped apples and nuts if using.
Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into a greased baking dish and bake for the recommended time. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy it warm, dusted with powdered sugar, drizzled with caramel, or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition Facts (Notes)
Servings: 8
Calories per serving: 280
Preparation Time (Notes)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
How to Serve Apple Cake
This cake pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai for a cozy experience.
- Enjoy as a breakfast cake with a side of yogurt and fresh fruit.
Additional Tips
- For extra moisture, use a mix of butter and oil in the batter. This keeps the cake soft while adding rich flavor.
- Don’t overmix the batter—it will keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Try different spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use different types of apples?
Yes! Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples all work well in this recipe.
2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free baking blend.
3. How do I make this cake extra moist?
Using oil instead of butter and adding an extra egg can make the cake even softer.
4. Can I add nuts or raisins?
Yes! Walnuts, pecans, or even raisins add great texture and flavor.
5. How do I store leftover apple cake?
Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
6. Can I freeze apple cake?
Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
7. What’s the best way to reheat apple cake?
Warm it in the microwave for a few seconds, or in the oven at 300°F until heated through.
8. Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can cut the sugar slightly, but keep in mind it helps with moisture and texture.
9. What can I use instead of cinnamon?
Try nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
10. Can I turn this into cupcakes?
Yes! Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake at a slightly lower temperature for a shorter time.
Conclusion
Apple Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert—soft, moist, and packed with warm flavors that make every bite feel like home. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven with a scoop of ice cream or as a sweet treat with your morning coffee, this cake is always a good idea.
So grab those apples, get baking, and enjoy a slice (or two) of this delicious homemade delight!
Print
Apple Cake
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This moist and flavorful Apple Cake is packed with fresh apples, warm spices, and a hint of vanilla. Perfect for dessert or as a sweet treat with coffee, this cake delivers a comforting, homemade taste in every bite.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 cups apples, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
– Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined.
4. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, and mix until smooth.
6. Fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts if using.
7. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool before dusting with powdered sugar if desired.
10. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
– For extra moisture, substitute half the butter with applesauce.
– Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work best for this recipe.
– Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg