Apple Cake Recipe
If you’re searching for a cozy bake that’s easy to make and positively bursting with nostalgic autumn flavor, this Apple Cake is the treat you need in your life. Imagine the aroma of spiced apples, warm cinnamon, and a buttery crumb wafting through your kitchen—this is the kind of cake that brings everyone running. The combination of tender apples, a moist crumb, and just a hint of crunch from optional nuts makes every bite memorable. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a hug from someone who always knows how to cheer you up. Whether you serve it warm from the oven or pack slices for a picnic, this Apple Cake is pure homemade happiness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple Cake shines thanks to its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one is chosen to really let those apples sing, adding flavor, texture, and that perfect golden color to every slice. Here’s what you’ll need, along with why each ingredient is such an important part of making this dessert unforgettable:
- All-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake, giving it structure and that classic soft crumb.
- Baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully so you get a lovely, airy texture.
- Baking soda: Works in tandem with the sour cream and helps create just the right amount of lift.
- Salt: Brings out the sweetness in the apples and balances the spices.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note that partners perfectly with baked apples.
- Ground nutmeg: Lends extra autumn coziness—just a little goes a long way!
- Unsalted butter (softened): For a tender, rich cake and that unbeatable buttery taste.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the crumb super moist and light, even after a day or two.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and gives those apples a delicate glaze as they bake.
- Light brown sugar (packed): Adds a subtle molasses note and enhances the cake’s moistness.
- Large eggs: Bind everything together and add richness.
- Vanilla extract: Harmonizes the flavors and adds depth—you’ll smell it as soon as you mix it in!
- Sour cream: The secret to a cake that stays soft and lush—it also gives a faint tang that lifts the whole dessert.
- Peeled and finely chopped apples: The star of the Apple Cake—choose tart-and-sweet varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best results.
- Chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): For a delightful crunch and an earthy finish if you love a bit of nutty texture.
How to Make Apple Cake
Step 1: Prep Your Baking Dish and Oven
First, set yourself up for success by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish—I usually opt for butter or a nonstick spray to keep things easy. While the oven heats, peel and finely chop your apples, and gather up all your ingredients so the process moves along smoothly. This little bit of prep makes everything quicker and more fun.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step disperses the leavening and spices evenly, so there are no clumps and every bite has that perfect warm flavor. Set it aside so it’s ready to join the party.
Step 3: Cream the Fats and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This part is seriously satisfying; you’ll notice the mix get paler and creamier as air is whipped in. It’s an important step for a soft, tender Apple Cake crumb.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream until the batter is smooth and luscious. The sour cream keeps your cake incredibly moist, and the vanilla lifts all the flavors beautifully, so be sure not to skip these!
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Take care not to over-mix—stir until you can’t see any more streaks of flour. Over-mixing can lead to a dense cake, and you want your Apple Cake to be fluffy and melt-in-your-mouth.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Now comes the best part—fold in your pile of chopped apples, and if you like, the walnuts or pecans. This step disperses little jewels of juicy fruit and nutty crunch all throughout the batter. Every scoop of batter should glisten with apple bits!
Step 7: Bake and Cool
Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly. Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is a gorgeous golden brown. Let it cool in the pan before slicing—this helps all the moisture settle in, so your Apple Cake is flawlessly tender.
How to Serve Apple Cake
Garnishes
For a simple finish, a dusting of powdered sugar gives a classic, elegant look. If you’re feeling a bit extravagant (and why not?), a drizzle of warm caramel sauce is an instant crowd-pleaser. Or, top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of good vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert. Each garnish adds something special to the Apple Cake experience.
Side Dishes
Apple Cake pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee, hot apple cider, or spiced tea. If you’re serving it for a brunch or gathering, consider offering it alongside a simple fruit salad or a platter of crisp grapes and mild cheese. The freshness of these sides balances the cozy richness of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
To wow a crowd, cut the Apple Cake into mini squares and serve on a tiered platter with toothpicks for bite-sized treats. Or, for an elegant plated dessert, top warm slices with a scoop of cinnamon ice cream and a sprinkle of toasted pecans. You can even layer cubes of cake in jars with cream and apple butter for an adorable, portable parfait.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (lucky you!), store the cooled Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need it to last a bit longer, pop it in the refrigerator, where it will keep fresh for up to one week. The flavors actually deepen overtime, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully! Simply wrap each piece or the entire cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Store in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
To enjoy that fresh-baked taste, warm single servings in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. If reheating larger portions, you can pop them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This brings back the cake’s softness and revives those inviting aromas.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this Apple Cake?
Absolutely! Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are favorites because they’re slightly tart and hold their shape well during baking, but you can experiment with other varieties like Fuji, Braeburn, or Pink Lady for different flavor notes and textures.
Is it necessary to peel the apples?
For the best texture in Apple Cake, it’s recommended to peel the apples since the skins can toughen as they bake. However, if you don’t mind the rustic look and a bit of extra chew, you can leave the skins on—just wash the apples thoroughly first.
Can I make this Apple Cake gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend. The rest of the recipe stays the same, just be mindful that the texture might vary slightly depending on the brand and ingredients of your blend.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The surest way is to insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your Apple Cake is ready. The surface should also feel springy when gently pressed and be beautifully golden brown.
Can I make this ahead for a party?
Definitely! Apple Cake is a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Prepare and bake it the day before you plan to serve, cool completely, then cover tightly. The flavors often become even richer overnight, and you can always warm it up right before serving for that magical just-baked aroma.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cake is the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again—comforting, crowd-pleasing, and so easy to love. Whether you’re baking for a potluck, celebrating fall, or just craving something special on a weeknight, I hope you’ll give this a try and discover just how delightful a simple apple dessert can be.
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Apple Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This delicious apple cake is a moist and flavorful dessert perfect for fall baking. Packed with chopped apples and warm spices, it’s an easy-to-make treat that’s sure to please. Serve it warm with whipped cream or ice cream for a delightful finish.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Wet Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Additional:
- 3 cups peeled and finely chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Beat Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat butter, oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla and sour cream.
- Combine and Bake: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture. Fold in apples and nuts. Pour batter into pan and bake for 40-45 minutes. Cool before serving.
Notes
- This cake is delicious served warm with whipped cream or ice cream.
- Dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 27 g
- Sodium: 210 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 47 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
