Apple Cake
Apple Cake Recipe: A Sweet and Comforting Delight
There’s something deeply comforting about a homemade apple cake. The mixture of warm spices, sweet apples, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a casual weeknight dessert, this apple cake qualifies as a go-to recipe. I originally stumbled upon this dish during a family celebration, and since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This apple cake is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can whip this up without a hitch. It’s budget-friendly, packed with flavor, and holds the kind of heartwarming aroma that fills your home. Plus, it’s versatile. Serve it warm with ice cream for dessert, or enjoy a slice alongside your morning coffee as a delightful breakfast treat.
"This apple cake has become my new favorite! It’s moist, full of flavor, and disappears in no time at all."
How This Recipe Comes Together
Making apple cake is a straightforward process that balances wet and dry ingredients with just a few steps. You’ll start by preparing your oven and baking dish, then mix your dry and wet ingredients separately. Finally, you’ll combine everything, add in the apples and pecans, and let the oven work its magic! In no time, you’ll have a delicious cake ready for your table.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for your apple cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups chopped apples (peeled and cored)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Note: If you don’t have pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. And feel free to swap out the granulated sugar for coconut sugar for a healthier twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how to make your apple cake perfectly:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In one bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- In another bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter until smooth.
- Next, add the eggs to the sugar mixture one at a time, mixing in the vanilla extract afterward.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just blended; be careful not to over-mix!
- Fold in your chopped apples and pecans gently.
- Pour your batter into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.
- Allow the cake to cool for a bit before slicing and serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it’s time to serve your apple cake, think outside the box. This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. For an extra touch, sprinkle some cinnamon on the ice cream or serve it alongside a warm caramel sauce. A sprinkle of powdered sugar can elevate presentation and flavor, making it a delightful centerpiece for any table.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
If you find yourself with leftovers (which might be a challenge!), store your apple cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, it can be refrigerated for up to a week. Alternatively, you can freeze the cake in slices, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, for up to three months. Just let it thaw before enjoying!
Tips for Success
Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years to achieve the best results with your apple cake:
- Use a mix of apples for a more complex flavor profile. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work great together!
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easier creaming.
- Don’t over-mix your batter; stop as soon as the dry ingredients are incorporated to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- For an extra kick, add a pinch of nutmeg along with your cinnamon.
Creative Twists
Feel free to experiment with your apple cake! Some creative twists you might consider include:
- Adding dried cranberries or raisins for added texture and sweetness.
- Swapping half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- Drizzling a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice over the top for a zesty finish.
Your Questions Answered
-
What is the prep time for this apple cake?
- You should expect about 15-20 minutes for preparation and about 45-50 minutes for baking.
-
Can I substitute the eggs?
- Yes! You can use flax eggs or unsweetened applesauce as substitutes, though this may slightly alter the texture.
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How can I ensure my cake stays moist?
- Make sure not to overbake your cake and store it properly after cooling to maintain its moisture.
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Is it okay to freeze this cake?
- Absolutely! Just make sure it’s completely cooled and wrapped well before freezing, and it will last for up to three months.
This apple cake recipe is not just about indulging your sweet tooth; it’s about savoring a slice of warmth and love. Happy baking!
Apple Cake
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In one bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- In another bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter until smooth.
- Add the eggs to the sugar mixture one at a time, mixing in the vanilla extract afterward.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just blended; be careful not to over-mix!
- Fold in your chopped apples and pecans gently.
- Pour your batter into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.
- Allow the cake to cool for a bit before slicing and serving.
