Apple Cake Recipe

Nothing says comfort like a warm, spiced Apple Cake fresh from the oven. This deliciously moist cake is packed with chunks of fresh apples and aromatic spices, making it the perfect dessert for fall or any time of the year. Whether you're enjoying it with a cup of coffee, serving it at a family gathering, or just indulging your sweet tooth, this apple cake recipe will satisfy. Let’s jump right into this irresistible recipe!

What is Apple Cake?

Apple cake is a classic dessert made with fresh apples, spices like cinnamon, and sometimes nuts or raisins. It’s a versatile treat that can be enjoyed with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dollop of whipped cream. This cake is moist, flavorful, and the perfect way to use up those extra apples in your kitchen.

Ingredients List for Apple Cake

For the Cake

• 2 ½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
• 1 cup (227 g) unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 ½ cups (300 g) granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs (room temperature)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk or buttermilk
• 3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and chopped into small chunks)
• ½ cup (75 g) chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• ¼ cup (40 g) raisins (optional)

For the Topping (Optional)

• ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter (melted)

Substitutions and Variations

There are plenty of ways to adapt this apple cake recipe to fit your preferences:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond milk or coconut milk instead of whole milk.
• Nut-Free: Simply omit the nuts, or substitute them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
• Apple Varieties: Use any apple variety you like, but Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples work particularly well in baking because of their texture and tartness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

How to Make Apple Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, bundt pan, or a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger (if using). Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
   • In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes, until light and fluffy.
4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:
   • Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Adding Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, followed by the milk or buttermilk. Once combined, add the remaining dry ingredients and mix until just incorporated.
6. Fold in the Apples, Nuts, and Raisins:
   • Gently fold in the chopped apples, and if using, the walnuts or pecans, and raisins. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
7. Prepare the Topping:
   • In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and cinnamon. Drizzle the melted butter over the mixture and stir until combined. (This step is optional but adds a delicious, caramelized flavor on top.)
8. Assemble and Bake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar topping evenly over the batter.
   • Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense, tough cake. Be sure to mix just until all ingredients are combined.
• Not Measuring Apples Correctly: The amount of apple can affect the cake's texture. Be sure to use the right amount of apples for balance—too much and the cake could turn soggy.
• Using the Wrong Apples: Some apples turn mushy when baked. Stick with firmer varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best results.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Apple Cake

• Serve Warm or Room Temperature: Apple cake tastes best when served warm or at room temperature.
• Pair with a Beverage: This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy dessert experience.

Presentation Ideas for Apple Cake

• Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once cooled, lightly dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.
• Top with Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for extra sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
• Serve with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the spiced cake.

Apple Cake Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance. Store it tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing the Cake: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Apples for Baking: For the best results, use firm, tart apples that hold their shape when baked. Avoid using overly sweet or mealy apples.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes! Granny Smith apples are popular for baking because of their tartness and firmness, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala apples work just as well. You can even mix varieties for a more complex flavor.

Can I make this cake without nuts?

Absolutely! Simply omit the walnuts or pecans if you prefer a nut-free version.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that is designed for baking (such as a 1:1 ratio blend).

How do I store leftover apple cake?

Store the apple cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I add other fruits to the cake?

Certainly! You can add other fruits like pears or cranberries to complement the apples, though this might slightly alter the cake’s texture.

Conclusion

This moist and flavorful Apple Cake is an absolute crowd-pleaser. With the warm spices, tender apple chunks, and optional nuts or raisins, it's a perfect dessert to enjoy during the fall or winter months. Whether you're baking it for a special occasion or just because, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. So grab your apples, and get ready to bake this comforting, delicious treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Print