Homemade Apple Cake

There’s something truly special about a warm slice of Homemade Apple Cake on a crisp fall day. The aroma of cinnamon and freshly baked apples wafts through the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that brings back memories of family gatherings and cherished moments. I remember my grandmother carefully peeling and slicing apples, her expert hands working quickly, as we eagerly waited for the sweet treat to emerge from the oven. Each bite of this cake tells a story; it’s not just a dessert, but a connection to our roots and love for home-cooked goodness. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a special occasion, this cake always finds a way to make everyone smile.

Ingredient List for Homemade Apple Cake

The beauty of this Homemade Apple Cake lies in its wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. The combination of fresh apples, warm spices, and rich sugars results in a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Let’s explore the key players in this delightful dish.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure and stability.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 1 heaping tablespoon homemade apple pie spice: A delightful blend of spices that elevate the apple flavor.
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• 4 large eggs: Adds moisture and richness to the cake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to its texture.
• ½ cup lightly packed light brown sugar: Adds a hint of caramel flavor and moisture.
• ¾ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender.
• ½ cup full-fat sour cream: Enhances moisture and adds a slight tang.
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with warmth and sweetness.
• 2 pounds Granny Smith apples: The star ingredient, providing freshness and flavor.
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and nuttiness.
• ⅓ cup coarse sugar: For sprinkling on top, giving a sweet crust.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Enhances the cake with classic apple pie flavors.

Putting Together Homemade Apple Cake

Making a Homemade Apple Cake is a joyful process that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Follow these steps, and you’ll create a beautiful cake that’s perfect for any occasion!

1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your cake bakes evenly and thoroughly. Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray; this keeps it from sticking.
2. Next, in a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 heaping tablespoon of homemade apple pie spice, and 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of baking powder. This dry mixture is essential as it forms the structure of your cake.
3. In a separate bowl, beat 4 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar along with ½ cup of lightly packed light brown sugar on high speed for about 5 minutes. The mixture should become significantly lighter and fluffier, indicating it’s ready for the next step.
4. Reduce the mixer speed to low and carefully add ¾ cup of vegetable oil, ½ cup of full-fat sour cream, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well-combined, ensuring a smooth batter.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
6. Now, fold in 2 pounds of Granny Smith apples, which should be peeled, cored, and thinly sliced. If you’re using the optional 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans, gently incorporate them at this stage for a delicious crunch.
7. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, making sure it’s level for even baking.
8. In a small bowl, combine ⅓ cup of coarse sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the cake batter, adding a lovely sweet crust.
9. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 55 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, which means the cake is beautifully baked.
10. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan. Serve it warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream and a drizzle of salted caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

Tips and Variations

Enhancing your Homemade Apple Cake is easy with these tips and variations! Explore new flavors and keep your cake exciting while still embracing the classic recipe.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This way, you can enjoy your cake for several days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve your cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Flavor Variations: Try adding different spices like nutmeg or cloves for a unique flavor twist. You can also incorporate dried fruits for additional texture and taste.
• Glazing: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake for added sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Serving This Homemade Apple Cake

There’s nothing quite like serving a fresh slice of Homemade Apple Cake to your guests. Here’s how to elevate your serving experience:

• Perfect for Gatherings: This cake is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any celebration. It’s bound to impress your guests.
• Pair with Beverages: Enjoy it with a cup of coffee or tea. The flavors complement each other perfectly, enhancing the overall experience.
• Seasonal Touch: For an autumn touch, serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a side of warm apple cider.
• Creative Pairings: Consider pairing it with a simple salad or cheese platter for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the cake properly to keep it fresh for your next dessert craving!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Homemade Apple Cake is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. I encourage you to try this recipe today—bake it for your loved ones, and watch their faces light up with delight as they enjoy each slice. It’s not just cake; it’s a piece of home and happiness.

Homemade Apple Cake

The ultimate comfort food, this Homemade Apple Cake is moist and bursting with sweet apple flavor, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion. With warm spices and a hint of cinnamon, it’s an easy weeknight treat that will satisfy your cravings. Bake it tonight and create delicious memories!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 12 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• KitchenAid stand mixer
• Nordic Ware Metal 9×13 Covered Cake Pan
• Apple peeler, corer, and slicer

Ingredients

  

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 heaping tablespoon homemade apple pie spice
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup lightly packed light brown sugar
• ¾ cup vegetable oil
• ½ cup full-fat sour cream
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 pounds Granny Smith apples peeled, cored and thinly sliced
• 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
• ⅓ cup coarse sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 heaping tablespoon of homemade apple pie spice, and 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of baking powder.
• In a separate bowl, beat the 4 large eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar along with ½ cup of lightly packed light brown sugar on high speed for about 5 minutes.
• Reduce the mixer speed to low and add in ¾ cup of vegetable oil, ½ cup of full-fat sour cream, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Mix until well-combined.
• Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
• Fold in 2 pounds of Granny Smith apples and 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans (optional).
• Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
• In a small bowl, combine ⅓ cup of coarse sugar and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, then sprinkle it evenly across the top of the cake.
• Bake the cake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool, then serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

• Tip: 2 pounds of apples is about 5-6 medium to large apples.

Keyword apple cake recipe, easy apple dessert, fall dessert ideas, Homemade Cake Recipe

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Meet Hanna Hart

I am obsessed with the “how” and “why” of cooking. It doesn’t matter if we are roasting a chicken or baking brownies; I am the one double-checking our measurements and cooking times. I love working on every type of cuisine and finding the absolute best method to get the results we want. I treat every recipe with the same level of care and dedication.