Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake Recipe

Introduction

This irresistible fresh apple cake is a delightful blend of tender crumb and warm cinnamon flavors, packed with juicy grated apples. Topped with a creamy vanilla cream cheese frosting, it makes a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated apples
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in the grated apples and walnuts.
5. Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
6. Step 6: For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until creamy.
7. Step 7: Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Slice and serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweetness and acidity.
• For added texture, substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts if preferred.
• Make the cake a day ahead to allow flavors to meld and the frosting to set perfectly.

Storage

Store the apple cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes for the best flavor and texture. The cake can also be frozen without frosting for up to 2 months; thaw fully before frosting and serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use peeled or unpeeled apples?

You can use either peeled or unpeeled apples. Leaving the peel on adds texture and nutrients, but peeled apples will create a smoother crumb.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, but be sure it contains xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain the cake’s structure.

Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 144 reviews

This Irresistible Fresh Apple Cake is a moist, tender dessert bursting with fresh grated apples and warm cinnamon. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s perfect for any occasion and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

• Author: Grace
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Cake

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups grated apples
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step helps to incorporate air, creating a tender cake texture.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cake. Fold in the grated apples and chopped walnuts if using.
6. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13-inch pan, smoothing the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Frosting: In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
8. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has completely cooled, evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Slice into pieces and serve.

Notes

• For extra moisture and flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon in the dry ingredients.
• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors.
• Walnuts are optional but add a pleasant crunch and contrast to the soft cake.
• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
• This cake can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: apple cake, fresh apple cake, cream cheese frosting, cinnamon apple dessert, easy apple cake recipe