Easy Apple Cake Recipe - Soft, Moist & Delicious!

Apple cake is a timeless dessert loved by many for its comforting flavors and moist texture. This easy apple cake recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a delicious homemade apple cake that is soft, moist, and filled with warm cinnamon-spiced apple goodness. Whether you serve it as a cozy dessert, an afternoon snack, or even for breakfast with a cup of coffee, this apple cake will become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

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
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup buttermilk (or whole milk)
2 cups peeled, cored, and chopped apples (about 2 medium apples)

For the Topping (Optional):

¼ cup brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

How to Make apple cake recipe easy ?

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a loaf pan with butter and dust with flour.
Peel, core, and chop the apples into small bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Set this aside while you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add half of the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix gently.
Pour in the buttermilk and mix until combined.
Add the remaining dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
Fold in the chopped apples using a spatula.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.
If using the topping, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, then sprinkle over the batter.
Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and enjoy!

Variations

Apple Spice Cake: Add ¼ teaspoon ground cloves and ½ teaspoon ginger for a more spiced flavor.
Glazed Apple Cake: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze (½ cup powdered sugar + 1-2 tablespoons milk).
Nutty Apple Cake: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.
Caramel Apple Cake: Serve with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce.

Cooking Notes

Use sweet apples like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala for a naturally sweet cake.
If you prefer a tangier taste, Granny Smith apples work well too.
Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
If using salted butter, reduce the added salt by half.

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Top with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon.
Pair with a caramel drizzle for extra indulgence.

Helpful Tips

Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature butter and eggs for a smooth batter.
Prevent Sticking: Grease and flour the pan well to prevent sticking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this apple cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Warm it up before serving for the best taste.

2. What type of apples work best for apple cake?

Sweet varieties like Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Gala are ideal, but Granny Smith adds a nice tartness.

3. Can I make this apple cake without eggs?

Yes! Substitute each egg with ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce or a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water).

4. How do I prevent my cake from being too dense?

Avoid overmixing the batter, and ensure you measure flour correctly by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off.

5. Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, substitute the butter with ½ cup vegetable oil for a slightly different texture.

Conclusion

This easy apple cake recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves homemade baked goods. With its moist texture, rich apple flavor, and hints of cinnamon, it’s a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain, with ice cream, or drizzled with caramel, this apple cake is guaranteed to impress. Try this recipe today and savor the comforting taste of homemade apple cake!