Apple Cake

Apple Cake

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Apple cake is a timeless classic that blends tender chunks of apples with a moist, spiced batter. It’s a favorite treat for holidays, fall gatherings, or simply when you want a warm and homey dessert. Whether served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with cream cheese frosting, this cake brings out the best of what apples can offer.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make a rich and flavorful apple cake from scratch, with practical tips, common variations, and serving ideas.

Apple Cake

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cake

This apple cake is everything a dessert should be—simple to prepare, bursting with fruit, and comforting to eat. It has:

  • Moist texture from fresh apples and oil

  • Warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg

  • A beautiful golden crust

  • Perfect balance of sweet and tart

Best Apples for Apple Cake

Choosing the right apples makes all the difference in flavor and texture.

Recommended Apple Varieties

  • Granny Smith – Tart and firm; holds shape well

  • Honeycrisp – Sweet, crisp, and juicy

  • Fuji – Very sweet and firm

  • Braeburn – Balanced flavor, great for baking

  • Jonagold – A blend of tart and sweet, good texture

Use one variety or mix two for added flavor complexity.

Ingredients Lits

For the Apple Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter or neutral oil

  • 1 cup granulated sugar

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)

  • 2 large eggs

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream

  • 3 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (about 3 medium apples)

  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For Optional Glaze or Topping

  • Powdered sugar for dusting

  • 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened) + 1/4 cup powdered sugar for frosting

  • Caramel sauce for drizzling

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowls

  • Measuring cups and spoons

  • Whisk or electric mixer

  • Rubber spatula

  • 9-inch round or square baking pan

  • Parchment paper (optional)

  • Cooling rack

Preparing the Apples

Step-by-Step Tips

  1. Peel and core the apples.

  2. Dice into small, even pieces so they cook evenly in the batter.

  3. Toss with a bit of lemon juice if prepping early to prevent browning.

Timing & Servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 50–60 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Servings: 8 to 10

Step-by-step Instructions for Apple Cake

Step 1. Preheat and Prepare Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper if desired.

Step 2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Step 3. Cream Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat butter (or oil) with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and yogurt (or sour cream).

Step 4. Combine Ingredients

Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in the diced apples and nuts, if using.

Step 5. Pour and Bake

Spread batter into prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6. Cool and Serve

Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze before serving.

Apple Cake

Optional Frosting and Glazes

Simple Cream Cheese Frosting

Mix 1/2 cup softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla until smooth.

Caramel Drizzle

Warm store-bought caramel sauce or make a quick version with butter, sugar, and cream.

Variations You Can Try

Apple Walnut Cake

Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts to the batter for texture and richness.

Apple Bundt Cake

Use a bundt pan and increase baking time by 10 minutes. This version looks especially elegant when served.

Spiced Apple Cake

Add 1/4 teaspoon cloves or allspice for deeper spice flavor.

Apple Cake with Raisins

Mix in 1/3 cup golden or regular raisins for extra sweetness and chew.

Tips for a Perfect Apple Cake

  • Do not overmix the batter to avoid a tough cake.

  • Use fresh baking powder and baking soda to ensure rise.

  • Let it cool completely before slicing to help it set and enhance flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Cake

Storing

Store covered at room temperature for 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a low oven for 10 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

  • Enjoy a slice with hot coffee or spiced tea.

  • Turn leftovers into breakfast cake with a side of Greek yogurt.

Nutrition Facts (Per Slice)

  • Calories: 300–350

  • Carbohydrates: 40g

  • Protein: 4g

  • Fat: 15g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 22g

FAQs

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes. Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

Can I substitute applesauce for eggs?

Yes. Use 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce per egg for a vegetarian version.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

You can substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for added fiber.

Conclusion

Apple cake is a true comfort dessert—warm, moist, and filled with the natural sweetness of apples. Whether you’re baking it for a fall gathering, holiday party, or just a cozy evening at home, it’s guaranteed to bring smiles. With flexible ingredients and easy prep, it’s a recipe worth making again and again.

Bake this apple cake today, and savor every delicious bite.