Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic homemade apple cake. This moist and flavorful dessert brings together the sweetness of fresh apples, warm spices, and a tender cake base that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a tea-time treat, or a cozy dessert to end your day, this apple cake is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you’ll have a delightful cake ready in no time.
Ingredients
- 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
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square cake pan. Alternatively, line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. This dry mixture forms the base of your cake.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and softened butter using a hand or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process typically takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. Avoid overmixing to ensure a tender cake.
- Fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using) using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly using the back of a spoon or spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Baking times may vary depending on your oven, so start checking around the 40-minute mark.
- Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Once the cake is completely cooled, dust the top with powdered sugar for a classic finish.
Enjoy this delightful apple cake on its own or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Its rich aroma and irresistible taste make it an all-time favorite for dessert lovers.