Introduction
There’s something magical about the smell of a freshly baked Apple Cake wafting through the house on a crisp autumn day. For me, Apple Cake is more than just dessert — it’s nostalgia in every bite. I still remember my grandmother’s kitchen, where apples from our backyard trees would be peeled, sliced, and folded into a simple batter that somehow turned into the most fragrant, golden cake you could imagine.
This recipe brings that same old-fashioned warmth but with a modern twist: it’s incredibly easy to make, adaptable to different dietary needs, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re baking it for a family brunch, a cozy afternoon treat, or a holiday dessert table, this Apple Cake is the perfect way to celebrate apple season. 🍂✨
🧂 Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delightful cake. I’ve included some handy substitutions so everyone can enjoy it — whether you’re going for classic, healthy, vegan, or gluten-free.
🍰 Cake Batter
- 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour – or use a gluten-free 1:1 flour blend.
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg (optional but adds amazing warmth)
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter for dairy-free.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – can use coconut sugar for a more caramel-like flavor.
- 2 large eggs – or use flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water) for vegan.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) plain yogurt or sour cream – use plant-based yogurt if vegan.
- 3 medium apples, peeled and chopped – tart varieties like Granny Smith or Pink Lady work best.
🍯 Optional Topping (for extra crunch)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional but delicious!)
👨🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
🪄 Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan or springform pan with parchment paper. This ensures your Apple Cake comes out clean and beautiful.
🍏 Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This helps distribute the spices evenly, giving the cake a warm, balanced flavor.
🧈 Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes). This step gives your Apple Cake a soft, tender crumb.
🥚 Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. The batter should look smooth and creamy.
🥄 Step 5: Add Yogurt and Dry Ingredients
Gently mix in the yogurt. Then, add the dry ingredients in two additions, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing — a few lumps are okay!
🍎 Step 6: Fold in the Apples
Using a spatula, fold in the chopped apples evenly throughout the batter. This is where the magic happens — the apples will keep the cake moist and flavorful.
🧁 Step 7: Add Topping (Optional)
If you’re going for extra crunch, sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts mixture over the top of the batter. It’ll form a caramelized crust that’s irresistible.
🔥 Step 8: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 40–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and your kitchen will smell heavenly.
⏳ Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let the Apple Cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or simply dusted with powdered sugar.
Extra Tips & Variations
🍽 Serving Suggestions
- Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a classic look.
- Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for a decadent dessert.
- Pair with a cup of spiced chai or coffee for the ultimate cozy treat.
🧊 Storage Tips
- Store leftover Apple Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Warm it slightly before serving to revive that fresh-baked flavor.
🥶 Freezing
Yes! You can freeze Apple Cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature overnight.
🥥 Ingredient Swaps
- Gluten-Free: Use a certified GF flour blend.
- Vegan: Swap butter for vegan butter, eggs for flax eggs, yogurt for plant-based yogurt.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar by ¼ cup or use a natural sweetener like coconut sugar.
📊 Nutritional Information
(Approximate per slice — based on NYT Cooking’s Apple Cake recipe):
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 24g
Values may vary depending on substitutions and portion sizes
❓ FAQ – Apple Cake
⏱ How long does it take to make Apple Cake?
From start to finish, it takes about 1 hour: 15 minutes of prep and 45 minutes of baking.
🥚 Can I substitute the eggs?
Yes! For a vegan Apple Cake, use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water per egg) or a commercial egg replacer.
🍎 Can I use different apple varieties?
Absolutely. Granny Smith adds tartness, while Honeycrisp or Gala give natural sweetness. You can even mix them for a more complex flavor.
🧊 Can I freeze Apple Cake?
Yes, Apple Cake freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
✨ Conclusion
There you have it — a classic Apple Cake that’s moist, fragrant, and bursting with apple goodness. Whether you enjoy it as a simple afternoon snack or dress it up for a special occasion, this cake is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. 🍏❤️
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear from you! Leave a comment below, share your tweaks, or tag me on social media with your beautiful creations. And don’t forget to save or share this post with fellow apple lovers.
Happy baking! 👩🍳🍰✨