Apple cake is a timeless dessert that combines the rich flavors of tender apples with a delightful spiced batter. This recipe is an easy-to-make treat that is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re serving it as a cozy dessert after dinner or bringing it to a gathering. With its soft, moist texture and aromatic spices, this apple cake will quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the beauty and flavor of apples, making it a classic autumn delight.
Ingredients:
- 2 large apples (peeled, cored, and chopped)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the sugar and eggs together until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or whisk by hand.
- Add the melted butter and vanilla extract to the sugar and egg mixture, and continue mixing until well combined.
- Stir in the sour cream and lemon juice, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding them together with a spatula or spoon. Be careful not to overmix.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples and walnuts (if using) until evenly distributed in the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a decorative touch, if desired. Slice and serve the apple cake on its own, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
This apple cake recipe is an ideal way to incorporate the goodness of fresh apples into a dessert. The combination of warm spices, soft apples, and the rich flavor of butter creates a cake that is moist, flavorful, and sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a slice with your afternoon tea, this apple cake will never disappoint. The optional addition of walnuts brings a delightful crunch, but feel free to omit them if you prefer a smoother texture.