This classic apple cake is incredibly moist and flavorful, perfect for a cozy dessert or afternoon treat. The combination of cinnamon, warm spices, and tender apples makes it irresistible.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups peeled, cored, and diced apples (such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or a mix)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Optional for topping:
- Powdered sugar for dusting.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan or a bundt pan.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and salt.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Add Apples and Nuts:
- Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed.
- Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve:
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Tips for a moister cake:
- Use the correct apples: Apples that hold their shape while baking, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, work well.
- Do not over mix: over mixing will make a tough cake.
- Cool Properly: Allowing the cake to cool before cutting, helps maintain its moisture.
Enjoy your delicious moist apple cake!