Apple cake is a delicious and comforting dessert that perfectly combines the natural sweetness of apples with the rich flavors of cinnamon and vanilla. This simple, yet indulgent recipe can be enjoyed any time of the year, especially during the fall when apples are at their best. Whether you’re looking for a treat to serve at family gatherings, a cozy afternoon snack, or something to impress your guests at a party, this apple cake will surely be a hit. Moist, fluffy, and packed with chunks of fresh apples, this cake offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
- 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (for topping, optional)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easier removal after baking.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the sour cream or yogurt, and mix until smooth. The batter will be thick but easy to spread.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples, ensuring that the pieces are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. Optionally, sprinkle the top with a tablespoon of brown sugar for a sweet, caramelized crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cake has cooled, dust it with powdered sugar before serving if desired. You can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
This apple cake is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The flavor improves the next day, making it a wonderful make-ahead option for any occasion. This easy recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, offering a moist, flavorful cake that’s perfect for apple lovers and anyone who enjoys a slice of homemade sweetness.