If you're looking for a warm, comforting dessert that fills your kitchen with the aroma of sweet apples and cinnamon, then you’re in the right place. This Apple Cake Recipe is not only easy to make but also deliciously moist and full of flavor. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat for yourself, this guide will show you everything you need to know, from ingredients to presentation. Keep reading to master this classic dessert and learn all the tips and tricks for a perfect apple cake every time!

What is an Apple Cake?
Apple Cake is a classic dessert made with fresh apples and a moist, spiced batter. It’s usually flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg, and other warm spices that complement the tartness of the apples. The cake is versatile, and you can add nuts, raisins, or even caramel for an extra layer of flavor. Whether you prefer a dense cake or a lighter crumb, the apple cake can be customized to suit your taste buds.
Ingredients List for Apple Cake
Here’s a simple list of ingredients you’ll need for a classic apple cake. These ingredients are usually available in most kitchens, making this a convenient go-to recipe:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour – This forms the base of your cake and provides structure.
- 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder – Ensures the cake rises properly, giving it a soft and fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda – Helps with leavening and creates a nice crumb.
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor to the cake.
- ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg – Complements the cinnamon and adds a subtle spiciness.
- ½ teaspoon of salt – Enhances all the other flavors in the cake.
- 2 large eggs – These provide richness and structure.
- 1 cup of granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a moist crumb.
- ½ cup of brown sugar – Adds a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- ¾ cup of vegetable oil – Keeps the cake moist and tender.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
- 3 medium apples, peeled and chopped – The star of the show! You can use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp, depending on your preference.
- 1 cup of chopped walnuts (optional) – Adds crunch and texture to the cake.
- ½ cup of milk – Makes the batter smooth and easy to mix.
Substitutions and Variations
While the above ingredients create a delicious apple cake, there are a number of substitutions and variations you can try depending on dietary needs, preferences, or simply to experiment:
- Apples: You can swap out apples for pears if you want a different fruit flavor. The texture and sweetness of pears will also complement the spices well.
- Sugar: If you’re looking for a healthier option, replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey. You can also reduce the sugar amount if you prefer a less sweet cake.
- Flour: To make a gluten-free apple cake, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Almond flour can also work for a nuttier flavor, though the texture will be more dense.
- Vegetable Oil: You can use melted butter, coconut oil, or even applesauce as a substitute for vegetable oil. Applesauce will give it an extra apple flavor, but it may make the cake a bit denser.
- Nuts: Pecans or almonds can replace walnuts, or you can omit them entirely if you prefer a nut-free version.
- Spices: Add other warm spices like ground cloves or cardamom for an extra flavor boost.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Baking an apple cake is straightforward, but following these instructions carefully will ensure your cake turns out perfect every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start by peeling and chopping your apples into small, even pieces. If you're using tart apples like Granny Smith, the sharpness will cut through the sweetness of the cake beautifully. Once chopped, toss them in a bowl with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to allow it to preheat while you prepare the batter. Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Make sure these ingredients are well-combined before setting the bowl aside.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the milk to ensure the batter has a smooth consistency.
Step 5: Fold in the Apples
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients. Once combined, gently fold in the chopped apples and optional walnuts. Be careful not to over-mix; this could make the cake tough.
Step 6: Pour the Batter
Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly. If desired, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon and sugar on top for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the edges will start to pull away from the sides of the pan.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent it from breaking apart when you try to remove it from the pan.
How to Cook Apple Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking an apple cake involves a few crucial steps, from preparing the apples to folding them into the batter, and finally baking. Follow this step-by-step guide carefully, and you'll have a delicious apple cake that’s ready to serve in no time.
- Peel and chop your apples: Make sure the pieces are bite-sized but not too small, as they will soften during baking.
- Mix your dry ingredients: This includes flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices. Sifting them ensures an even distribution.
- Blend your wet ingredients: Combine eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla until smooth. Adding the milk will loosen the batter slightly.
- Fold in apples and nuts: Be gentle during this step to keep the apples intact and prevent the batter from becoming tough.
- Bake and test: Bake at 350°F until the cake is golden and a toothpick comes out clean.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the batter: Stirring too much can result in a dense, tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Using the wrong apples: Some apples like Red Delicious can turn mushy. Stick to baking-friendly varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Not prepping the pan: Failing to grease and flour your pan could result in a stuck cake, making it difficult to remove.
- Opening the oven door too early: This can cause the cake to collapse in the middle. Wait until at least 30 minutes before checking.
Serving and Presentation Tips
The way you serve your apple cake can elevate its appeal. Here are some serving and presentation ideas:
How to Serve Apple Cake
- Warm: Serve the cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic pairing.
- Chilled: Chilling the cake can firm up the flavors, especially if you plan to drizzle caramel sauce on top.
- With tea or coffee: Apple cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making it a great option for afternoon snacks or dessert after dinner.
Presentation Ideas for Apple Cake
- Powdered Sugar Dusting: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the top of the cake for an elegant finish.
- Caramel Drizzle: For a fancier presentation, drizzle caramel sauce over each slice.
- Garnish with Apple Slices: Thin slices of apple arranged on top of the cake or around the serving platter can add a fresh, decorative touch.
Apple Cake Recipe Tips
- Use room temperature ingredients: Room temperature eggs and milk will incorporate better into the batter, ensuring a smooth consistency.
- Choose the right apples: Granny Smiths are perfect for tartness, while Honeycrisp adds a sweet crunch.
- Don’t rush the cooling process: Let the cake cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this apple cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make the cake gluten-free. Just make sure the blend includes xanthan gum for structure.
What type of apples is best for apple cake?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples are all excellent choices. They hold their shape during baking and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness.
Can I freeze apple cake?
Absolutely. Once cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 3 months.
How long does apple cake last?
Stored in an airtight container, apple cake will last for 3-4 days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge.
Conclusion
There you have it—a foolproof Apple Cake Recipe that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or enjoying it as a cozy dessert at home, this apple cake is sure to impress. The combination of tender apples, warm spices, and a moist crumb makes it the perfect treat for any occasion. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and tips mentioned above to truly make this recipe your own. Happy baking!
PrintApple Cake Recipe
This apple cake recipe features juicy apples and warm spices like cinnamon for a cozy and flavorful treat. Perfect for dessert or a special occasion, this moist apple cake is easy to make and filled with fresh ingredients. With minimal prep time and easy-to-follow instructions, it's an ideal dessert for fall or whenever you're craving something sweet and fruity. Serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. Keywords: apple cake, moist cake recipe, fall dessert, easy apple cake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 cups apples, peeled and chopped
- ½ cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until well combined.
- Fold in the chopped apples.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can use a combination of tart and sweet apples.
- The cake pairs well with a dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 210mg
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