This Easy Apple Cake is a simple yet delicious homemade dessert that combines the sweetness of apples with a soft, moist cake texture. It is perfect for tea time, family gatherings, or even as a festive treat. The recipe requires basic ingredients, comes together quickly, and fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of baked apples and warm spices. With minimal effort, you can create a wholesome dessert that tastes like it came straight from a bakery.
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 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup plain yogurt or sour cream
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease or line an 8-inch square baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Mix in yogurt (or sour cream) until smooth. Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until combined. Do not overmix.
- Gently fold in chopped apples and nuts (if using). Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Servings
Makes about 8 servings.
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 290
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 21g
Notes
This cake tastes even better the next day as the apple flavor deepens. You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version. Any apple variety works, but tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness beautifully.
Tips
For extra flavor, sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top of the batter before baking. If you prefer a more indulgent dessert, serve with whipped cream, ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Ensure apples are chopped evenly so they bake consistently within the cake.
Health Benefits
Apples are a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this cake not only tasty but also a bit more nourishing than traditional desserts. The fiber helps support digestion, while the natural sweetness of apples allows you to reduce added sugar. Using nuts provides healthy fats and added protein, making the cake more filling.
Q & A
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, it can be baked a day in advance and stored covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
Q: Can I freeze Easy Apple Cake?
A: Absolutely, just wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute half or all of the flour with whole wheat flour, but it may create a denser texture.
Q: What other fruits can I use in this recipe?
A: Pears, peaches, or berries can be used as variations, though apples provide the best texture and flavor balance.