About This Recipe
When it comes to classic desserts, few things are as comforting and homey as Easy Apple Cake. With tender apples baked into a moist cake batter, every bite bursts with warm flavors of fruit and spice. This cake is straightforward to prepare, requiring only basic ingredients and a single bowl.
Whether you enjoy it as a sweet breakfast, an afternoon treat with coffee, or a dessert after dinner, this cake never fails to please. It’s a timeless recipe that highlights the natural sweetness and texture of fresh apples.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- Beginner-friendly: Minimal steps make it foolproof, even for new bakers.
- Naturally moist: Apples add both sweetness and tenderness.
- Versatile: Serve plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a glaze.
- Perfect for any occasion: Ideal for holidays, gatherings, or weeknight baking.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 3 cups apples, peeled and diced (about 3 medium apples)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Optional topping: powdered sugar, caramel drizzle, or cream cheese glaze
Step by Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry: Add half of the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stir, then add the sour cream. Stir in the remaining dry ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in apples: Gently fold in the diced apples and nuts (if using). The batter will be thick.
- Bake: Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Dust with powdered sugar or serve as-is.
Tips for Success
- Use firm apples: Varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji work best, as they hold their shape during baking.
- Do not overmix: Stir just until combined to keep the cake tender.
- Check early: Ovens vary, so start checking the cake at the 35-minute mark.
- Enhance flavor: Add a splash of apple cider or a handful of raisins for a richer taste.
- Make it festive: Top with cream cheese frosting for a holiday-worthy dessert.
Variations and Add-Ins
- Apple spice cake: Increase cinnamon and nutmeg, and add ground cloves or allspice.
- Caramel apple cake: Drizzle caramel sauce over each slice before serving.
- Apple cranberry cake: Fold in dried cranberries for a tart twist.
- Gluten-free version: Substitute with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Apple bundt cake: Bake in a greased bundt pan for a beautiful presentation.
What to Serve with Easy Apple Cake
- A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- A drizzle of caramel or honey for added sweetness.
- A hot cup of coffee or spiced tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
- Greek yogurt on the side for a balanced breakfast option.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
- Make ahead: The cake can be baked one day in advance and stored covered at room temperature.
- Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 20 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
FAQ
Can I leave the apple peels on?
Yes, but peeling ensures a smoother texture. Keeping peels will add more fiber and a rustic feel.
Can I substitute butter with oil?
Yes, you can replace butter with ½ cup vegetable oil for a slightly denser cake.
What kind of apples should I avoid?
Soft apples like Red Delicious tend to become mushy and lose texture. Stick to firm varieties.
Can I make this cake less sweet?
Yes, reduce sugar by ¼ cup without affecting texture too much.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but replace only half the flour to prevent the cake from becoming too dense.