This delightful apple Cake Recipe is the perfect treat to bake during the autumn season, as it fills your home with the sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon. Simple yet delicious, this cake highlights the natural sweetness and flavor of apples, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. If you’re looking to impress your family and friends with a homemade dessert that doesn’t require professional baking skills, this is the recipe for you.
Growing up, my grandmother would often make this apple cake on weekends. We would gather in her cozy kitchen, eagerly waiting for the timer to buzz so we could enjoy the warm, comforting slices with a dollop of cream. Baking this cake reminds me of those cherished moments and I hope it becomes a part of your family traditions too.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This apple cake is incredibly moist and packed with flavor. One of the main attractions is its simplicity. It’s a one-Bowl Recipe, which means less cleanup and more time to savor the deliciousness. Additionally, the balance between the sweet apples and the subtle spices makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, you’ll appreciate how forgiving and adaptable this recipe is.
Ingredients Notes
For this recipe, use a variety of apples like Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Honeycrisp for their sweetness. Substitute Brown Sugar with coconut sugar for a deeper flavor. Ensure the butter is softened for easy mixing and opt for fresh cinnamon sticks if possible for a more vibrant aroma. Lastly, you can use gluten-free flour if desired, without compromising the cake’s texture.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. Line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of sugar and ½ cup of softened butter until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3
Add in two large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.
Step 4
Incorporate 1½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of baking powder, and a pinch of salt into the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Fold in 2 cups of peeled and diced apples.
Step 5
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool before serving.
Storage Options
Store the leftover apple cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. To enjoy from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a preheated oven before serving.
Variations & Substitutions
For a nutty twist, add ½ cup of chopped walnuts to the batter. To make it dairy-free, replace the butter with coconut oil. Enhance the spice by adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger along with cinnamon. If you’re avoiding refined sugar, substitute it with maple syrup or honey.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this apple cake with a scoop of vanilla Ice Cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent dessert. It’s perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet ending to a festive meal. Pair it with a cup of chai or coffee to complement the warm spices.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Yes, you can substitute apples with pears or peaches for a different flavor profile. Adjust the sugar amount depending on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
How do I ensure my cake stays moist? Be careful not to overbake the cake, as this can cause it to dry out. Additionally, incorporating a little extra moisture, such as apple sauce or yogurt, into the batter can help retain the cake’s moistness.
Is it possible to make this cake vegan? Yes! Use a plant-based butter substitute and replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tbsp seed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Apple Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup sugar
- 0.5 cup butter softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups apples peeled and chopped
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt together.
- In another large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla.
- Gradually add in the dry ingredients, mixing until just incorporated.
- Fold in the chopped apples.
- Pour batter into a greased 9x9 inch pan.
- Bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
