Moist Apple Cake Recipe

Sweet & Fluffy Apple Cake Recipe for Autumn Bakers

Sweet aromas of cinnamon and warm apple cake waft through cozy kitchens, promising comfort in every slice.

Seasonal fruits bring magic to simple desserts with minimal effort.

Bakers adore how easily these ingredients blend into delightful treats.

Crisp apples mingle with soft, tender crumbs that melt on your tongue.

Memories of grandmother’s kitchen spark joy when you slice into this classic dessert.

Soft spices and buttery texture create a welcoming experience that feels like a warm hug.

Bake this delectable cake and watch smiles bloom around your table.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of apples?

Yes, you can use varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji. Choose firm apples that hold their shape during baking for the best texture.

  • Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for similar texture and structure.

  • How do I know if the cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean with no wet batter, the cake is done. The top should also be golden brown and slightly springy to touch.

  • Can I add nuts to this apple cake?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans can be folded into the batter before baking to add crunch and extra flavor.

Apple Cake That Everyone Will Love

  • Quick Comfort Baking: Perfect for beginners with simple steps and minimal kitchen skills, this apple cake transforms basic ingredients into a delightful dessert without complicated techniques.
  • Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Suitable for family gatherings, potlucks, or weekend treats, this cake appeals to all ages with its warm cinnamon-spiced flavor and tender apple chunks.
  • Seasonal Delight: Celebrates autumn's bounty by showcasing fresh apples in a moist, fragrant cake that brings cozy kitchen vibes and nostalgic homemade goodness to your table.
  • Stress-Free Preparation: Requires standard baking tools, minimal mixing steps, and straightforward ingredients, making it an accessible recipe for home bakers seeking a delicious and impressive dessert.

Ingredients for Apple Cake

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: A key component that provides structure and texture to the apple cake.
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Leavening agents that help the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg: Warm spices that add depth and traditional flavor to the apple cake.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall taste and balances the sweetness of the cake.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Butter: Creates a rich and tender crumb in the cake.
  • Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with the cake's caramelization.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture to the cake.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a classic, aromatic flavor to the dessert.
  • Milk: Helps create a smooth and moist cake batter.
Fruit:
  • Apples: Fresh fruit that adds natural sweetness, moisture, and a delightful texture to the cake.

How to Prepare Apple Cake

Step 1: Prep The Oven And Pan

Heat your oven to 350F. Grab a 9-inch round cake pan and give it a quick coating of grease and flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Salt

Whisk these ingredients together until they’re evenly blended.

Step 3: Create A Fluffy Butter Base

In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and airy.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract to enhance the flavor.

Step 4: Combine Wet And Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. This helps create a smooth, even batter.

Gently fold in freshly diced apples, distributing them evenly throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Fill The Cake Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a smooth top.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean when the cake is ready.

Step 7: Cool And Serve

Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and enjoy your homemade apple cake!

Pro Tips for Moist Apple Cake

  • Choose ripe, firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture in your cake.
  • Dust the diced apples with a bit of flour before folding into the batter to prevent them from sinking to the bottom.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap regular flour with almond or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
  • Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
  • Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Variations to Try with Apple Cake

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace wheat flour with almond flour or gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly cake.
  • Vegan Adaptation: Substitute butter with coconut oil, eggs with flax eggs, and milk with almond milk for a plant-based option.
  • Low-Sugar Alternative: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead of sugar, and choose tart apple varieties like Granny Smith to reduce overall sweetness.
  • Spiced Pear Variation: Swap apples with diced pears and add ground cardamom for a different seasonal fruit cake experience.

Serving Ideas for Apple Cake

  • Cozy Coffee Companion: Slice this warm apple cake and pair it with a steaming mug of freshly brewed coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
  • Autumn Dessert Centerpiece: Dust the cake with powdered sugar and serve on a rustic wooden board, surrounded by fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks for a gorgeous seasonal presentation.
  • Scoop of Happiness: Top each slice with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to add creamy richness and elevate the dessert's indulgence.
  • Weekend Brunch Star: Cut into small squares and arrange on a platter with other pastries, creating a beautiful spread that will impress family and friends during a leisurely weekend gathering.

Storage Advice for Apple Cake

  • Store leftover apple cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, keeping it moist and fresh.
  • Refrigerate the cake if you want to extend its shelf life to 5-7 days, ensuring it's tightly wrapped to prevent drying out.
  • Freeze individual slices or the whole cake by wrapping securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, lasting up to 3 months.
  • Reheat refrigerated cake slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or warm in a preheated 350F oven for 5-7 minutes until slightly heated through.
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Moist Apple Cake Recipe

Moist Apple Cake Recipe


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4.6 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Scrumptious German apple cake delights with layers of tender fruit and delicate spices. Warm cinnamon and sweet apples create a comforting dessert you’ll savor with pure culinary joy.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (480 ml) all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups (300 g) peeled, diced apples
  • 1 cup (200 g) sugar
  • 12 cup (113 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs

Leavening Agents:

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Spices and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 350F (175C) and prepare a 9-inch round cake pan by lightly coating with butter and dusting with flour.
  2. Combine all dry ingredients in a mixing bowl, whisking flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly blended.
  3. In a separate large mixing bowl, thoroughly cream butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and airy, creating a smooth consistency.
  4. Incorporate eggs into the butter mixture one at a time, ensuring complete integration after each addition, then mix in vanilla extract for enhanced flavor.
  5. Gradually fold dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with milk to maintain a smooth batter texture, being careful not to overmix.
  6. Gently fold diced apples into the batter, distributing them evenly throughout to ensure consistent apple flavor in each slice.
  7. Transfer the batter to the prepared cake pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly and create a level surface.
  8. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
  9. Remove from oven and allow the cake to rest in the pan for 10 minutes to help it set and cool slightly.
  10. Carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack, letting it cool completely before serving to ensure optimal texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for maximum flavor and texture contrast in the cake.
  • Dust the diced apples with a little flour before folding into batter to prevent them from sinking during baking.
  • Let the cake cool completely before slicing to ensure clean, even cuts and prevent crumbling.
  • For a gluten-free version, swap regular flour with a cup-for-cup gluten-free baking blend to maintain the cake’s tender crumb.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 205 kcal
  • Sugar: 14 g
  • Sodium: 140 mg
  • Fat: 8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 45 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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