Easy Apple Cake Recipe

Apple cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the natural sweetness of apples with the warmth of spices, all in a tender and moist cake. This Easy Apple Cake Recipe is perfect for those who love the comforting flavors of cinnamon and apples but want something quick and simple to make. Whether you're looking for a treat to serve at a family gathering, a cozy dessert for a fall evening, or just a quick snack, this apple cake is sure to satisfy. With no fancy techniques or complicated ingredients, this cake is a no-fuss recipe that can be whipped up in no time. Let’s dive into the details and get baking!

this Recipe

What is an Apple Cake?

Apple cake is a soft, moist cake that features chunks of fresh apples throughout the batter. The apples add natural sweetness and moisture, while spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and flavor. This cake can be made with different varieties of apples, depending on what you have on hand or prefer. It’s a perfect dessert for fall or winter but can be enjoyed year-round. Some variations include raisins, nuts, or caramel drizzle, but this version keeps it simple with just apples and a hint of cinnamon for the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients List for Easy Apple Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy apple cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
  (The base of the cake that provides structure.)
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
  (Helps the cake rise and gives it a light texture.)
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
  (Enhances the cake's rise and tenderness.)
• ½ teaspoon salt
  (Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.)
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  (Adds warmth and spice that pairs perfectly with the apples.)
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  (Adds extra warmth and depth of flavor.)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
  (Sweetens the cake and caramelizes slightly for added flavor.)
• ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
  (Brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper caramel-like flavor.)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
  (Butter adds richness and moisture to the cake.)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
  (Eggs provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  (Adds flavor and enhances the sweetness of the cake.)
• ½ cup milk
  (Milk keeps the cake moist and gives it a tender crumb.)
• 3 cups apples, peeled and chopped (about 2-3 medium apples)
  (Choose your favorite apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji.)

Substitutions and Variations

This apple cake is simple but versatile, so feel free to customize it with these options:

• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that’s designed for baking.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free butter substitute (like plant-based butter) and almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk.
• Nuts: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a nutty crunch.
• Raisins: Stir in ½ cup of raisins or dried cranberries for extra sweetness and texture.
• Caramel Drizzle: Add a caramel drizzle on top for an extra indulgent touch.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your easy apple cake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). This will ensure all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate medium-sized bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly thick.

Step 4: Add the Milk

Gradually add the milk to the wet ingredients, whisking until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

Step 5: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until the batter is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.

Step 6: Fold in the Apples

Gently fold the chopped apples into the batter until they are evenly distributed. The batter will be thick, which is normal.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the cake should feel springy to the touch.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can also serve it warm, which is especially delicious when paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

How to Cook Easy Apple Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide

This Easy Apple Cake recipe is straightforward and perfect for beginners. The key is to mix the ingredients just enough to combine them without overworking the batter. The apples add moisture, so don’t worry if the batter seems thick—once baked, the cake will be perfectly tender and soft.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple recipe, there are a few common mistakes you can avoid for the best results:

• Overmixing the batter: After adding the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can make the cake dense and tough.
• Using the wrong apples: Avoid using overly soft or mealy apples, as they will break down too much during baking. Choose firmer apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture.
• Not allowing the cake to cool: If you want to frost or glaze the cake, make sure it’s completely cooled before doing so to prevent the frosting from melting.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This apple cake can be enjoyed on its own, or you can dress it up for a more elegant presentation. Here are a few ideas:

• Dust with powdered sugar: For a simple, classic presentation, dust the top of the cooled cake with powdered sugar.
• Serve with whipped cream or ice cream: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm spices and apples in the cake.
• Drizzle with caramel: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle the top of the cake with caramel sauce just before serving.

How to Serve Easy Apple Cake

This cake is delicious both warm and at room temperature. Serve it as a dessert after dinner or as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or coffee. If you're serving it for a special occasion, consider adding a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a little extra flair.

Presentation Ideas for Easy Apple Cake

• Rustic Look: Keep the presentation simple by serving the cake straight from the pan with a few apple slices arranged on top.
• Layered Cake: If you're feeling a little more ambitious, bake the cake in two round pans and frost with cream cheese frosting to create a layered apple cake.
• Mini Apple Cakes: For individual servings, bake the batter in muffin tins to create apple cake cupcakes or mini cakes.

Easy Apple Cake Recipe Tips

• Choose the Right Apples: Use a firm apple variety like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji for the best texture. These apples hold their shape and don’t turn mushy when baked.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your eggs, milk, and melted butter are at room temperature before starting. This will help the ingredients blend together more smoothly.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of fruit in this cake?
   Yes, you can substitute the apples with pears, peaches, or even berries if you like. Just be sure to adjust the sweetness depending on the fruit you choose.
2. Can I freeze apple cake?
   Absolutely! You can freeze the apple cake once it’s completely cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before serving.
3. Can I use oil instead of butter?
   Yes, you can substitute the butter with vegetable oil or a neutral-tasting oil like canola. The cake will still be moist, but butter adds a richer flavor.
4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature and it will stay fresh.

Conclusion

This Easy Apple Cake is the perfect recipe for when you want a comforting, delicious dessert with minimal effort. With its tender crumb, bursts of juicy apple, and warming spices, this cake is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a craving, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious. So, grab your apples, get your ingredients ready, and enjoy the process of baking (and eating!) this lovely apple cake!

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