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
Scale
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.
