Irresistible Apple Cake Recipe You Need to Try This Weekend – Moist, Easy, and Full of Flavor!
Craving a cozy dessert? This moist, easy apple cake is packed with fall flavor—perfect for weekends or gatherings. Baking this cake fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that promises comfort in every bite. Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe is straightforward and yields a delightful treat that's sure to impress. Plus, it comes together in about an hour, making it an ideal choice for a weekend baking project.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Provides the structure for the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- Helps the cake rise.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Adds a warm, spicy flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Enhances the overall taste.
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Sweetens the cake.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Adds moisture and richness.
- 2 large eggs
- Bind the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Imparts a sweet aroma.
- 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and chopped
- Provides moisture and flavor.
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- Adds sweetness and a slight crunch.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Enhances the spiced flavor.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- Helps the topping adhere to the cake.
Prep Time & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Add Apples: Fold in the chopped apples until evenly distributed.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon. Drizzle the melted butter over the cake batter, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
- Apple Variety: I love using Granny Smith apples for their tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji apples work well too.
- Add Nuts: For a delightful crunch, consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Spice It Up: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra layer of flavor.
- Make It Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
- Serve Warm: Serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Serving Suggestions
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness complements the spiced cake.
- Whipped Cream: A light, airy topping that adds a touch of elegance.
- Hot Tea: A warm beverage that enhances the cozy flavors.
- Coffee: The slight bitterness balances the sweetness of the cake.
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
- Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Info
(Per serving, based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1