There is something truly magical about this Apple Cake Recipe that warms both the heart and the home. With tender chunks of apples bursting with each bite and a delicate blend of cinnamon and nutmeg, this cake strikes the perfect balance between cozy comfort and bright, fresh flavor. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or craving a homemade treat, this apple cake is easy to make and endlessly satisfying, delivering moist texture and a welcoming sweetness that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to crafting this delightful apple cake. Each component plays a vital role in creating a tender crumb, balanced sweetness, and a flavorful punch of autumn spices that make this recipe truly special.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the soft structure for a tender, fluffy cake.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise to a light, airy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with sour cream to ensure perfect leavening and subtle tang.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings warm, aromatic spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a hint of cozy depth to the spice mix.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Creates rich moisture and a tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake with clean, classic sweetness.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds subtle caramel notes and a bit of extra moisture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind ingredients together and provide structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the natural flavors with a sweet, fragrant hint.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt: Keeps the cake moist and tender with a gentle tang.
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Offer juicy bursts of fresh apple flavor and texture.
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nutty goodness.
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): Provides an elegant, sweet finishing touch.
How to Make Apple Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan thoroughly. This simple step ensures your Apple Cake Recipe bakes evenly and comes out effortlessly once ready.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This combo of dry ingredients builds the flavorful base of your cake and ensures even distribution of spices and leavening agents.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Using a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, helping your cake achieve that perfect, tender texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Mix the eggs in one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. The eggs provide structure while vanilla lifts the overall flavor, harmonizing the sweetness and spices.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough, so a gentle touch ensures a light crumb.
Step 6: Fold in Apples and Nuts
Gently fold in the chopped apples and nuts if using. The apples infuse moisture and natural sweetness throughout the cake, while the nuts contribute texture and a buttery bite.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake sit in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Apple Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar is a simple yet beautiful way to finish your Apple Cake Recipe. For a more indulgent touch, consider a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce to complement the apple spices.
Side Dishes
This apple cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a scoop of creamy Greek yogurt. The creamy sides amplify the warmth of the cake and create a balanced dessert experience perfect for chilly afternoons or festive dinners.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your apple cake into a showstopper by serving it as individual mini cakes or layered with cinnamon-spiced cream cheese frosting for a twist. You could also dress it up with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or a handful of fresh apple slices on top for added flair.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover apple cake can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the cake moist and fresh while preserving the delicate spice flavors that develop over time.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Apple Cake Recipe later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results before serving.
Reheating
To warm leftover apple cake, heat slices gently in the microwave or oven until just warmed through. This revives the softness and releases the apple aromas, making it feel freshly baked all over again.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this Apple Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples work particularly well for their balance of tart and sweet, feel free to experiment with Fuji, Braeburn, or Gala apples. Just be mindful that sweeter apples may make the cake sweeter overall.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Make sure your baking powder and other ingredients are gluten-free as well for the best results.
Can I omit the nuts?
Definitely! The nuts add crunch and flavor but are entirely optional. The cake will still be moist, flavorful, and delicious without them.
How long does the Apple Cake Recipe stay fresh?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this apple cake stays fresh at room temperature for two days, or up to a week in the refrigerator. It also freezes beautifully.
Can I double the recipe to make a larger cake?
Yes, doubling the ingredients is a great idea for bigger gatherings. Just be sure to use a larger baking pan or two pans, and adjust the baking time accordingly—check doneness starting at 45 minutes.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like freshly baked apple cake to fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and bring everyone together. This Apple Cake Recipe is a fantastic go-to that blends simplicity with deliciousness in every slice. I encourage you to try making it for your next dessert craving or celebration—you might just create a new favorite to share for years to come!
Print
Apple Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Apple Cake is a moist, spiced dessert perfect for fall or any time you crave a comforting homemade treat. It features tender chunks of apples, warm cinnamon and nutmeg, and a lightly sweetened crumb, finished with an optional dusting of powdered sugar. Easy to prepare and delightful to serve, this cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce.
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 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
Main Add-ins
- 2 cups peeled and chopped apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Optional Topping
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, creating a creamy base for the cake batter.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure even blending. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, which add moisture and tenderness to the cake.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake.
- Fold in Apples and Nuts: Carefully fold in the chopped apples and, if using, the chopped walnuts or pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Optionally, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving for an elegant finish.
Notes
- This apple cake tastes even better the day after baking as the flavors meld and the texture becomes more moist.
- Serve warm alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzle with caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
- If using a bundt pan or different shape, adjust the baking time accordingly, as thicker cakes may require longer baking times.
