Easy Apple Cake

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Slice of easy apple cake topped with fresh apples and cinnamon on a plate

Easy Apple Cake

There’s something truly heartwarming about a freshly baked apple cake. This dessert brings the cozy vibes of autumn right into your kitchen, and each slice is filled with the sweet flavor of juicy apples. This cake is not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy coffee afternoon, or just a sweet treat for yourself. Today, we’re diving into an easy recipe that will have you impressing friends and family in no time. Let’s get to it!

What You’ll Need for Easy Apple Cake

To whip up this delightful dessert, gather the following ingredients. You’ll find that they are easy to come by and may already be in your pantry:

  • 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • ½ cup (100g) sugar
  • ¾ tablespoon (9g) baking powder (ensure it’s fresh!)
  • 3 large eggs (at room temperature)
  • ½ cup (120ml) avocado oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
  • 3 medium apples (peeled and diced small, about 2 to 2 ½ cups total; I used Honey Crisp)
  • Powdered sugar (for dusting)
  • ½ cup (120ml) milk
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) butter
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) sugar

How to Make Easy Apple Cake

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the fun part: baking! Follow these simple steps to create your apple cake masterpiece.

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a 7-inch springform pan with baking spray and line the base with parchment paper. If you prefer a larger cake, feel free to use a bigger springform pan, but note that it may bake faster, so keep an eye on it!

  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the sifted flour, sugar, and baking powder. Stir them together until well combined.

  3. Combine Wet Ingredients: Next, add the eggs and avocado oil to the dry mix. Stir until you have a smooth but thick batter.

  4. Fold in the Apples: Gently add the diced apples to the batter, folding them in until they are fully coated. This will ensure each bite is packed with apple goodness.

  5. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  6. Prepare the Milk Mixture: About 5 minutes before the cake is done, heat the milk, butter, and sugar together in a small pot over medium heat. Whisk until the mixture is warmed, and the butter and sugar have dissolved completely. Remove from heat.

  7. Poke and Pour: Once the cake is out of the oven, use a long skewer or chopstick to poke evenly spaced holes all over the top of the cake, about 25 to 30 holes should do the trick. Gently pour the warm milk mixture over the top. The cake will absorb it beautifully as it cools.

  8. Cool and Serve: After letting the cake absorb the milk mixture for about 10 to 15 minutes, remove the springform and parchment paper. Place the cake on a serving plate to cool completely. If desired, dust the top with powdered sugar before serving.

How to Serve Easy Apple Cake

This delicious apple cake is fantastic on its own, but there are a few ways to elevate your serving game. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature for the best taste. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat. A drizzle of caramel sauce over the top would also complement the apple flavor nicely. For tea lovers, this cake makes a delightful accompaniment for your favorite brew.

Recipe Tips & Variations

  • Apple Variety: Feel free to experiment with different kinds of apples. Granny Smith for tartness, Fuji for sweetness — it’s all up to your taste!
  • Add Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to your cake. Just fold them in with the apples.
  • Spices: Consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spicy flavor.

Easy Apple Cake FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of oil?
Yes, any neutral oil will work. Canola or vegetable oil are excellent alternatives to avocado oil.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cake can be made a day ahead. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

3. Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it has a 1:1 ratio for best results.

Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to enjoy a comforting treat at home, this apple cake is sure to please! Give this recipe a try, and savor each delicious slice. Happy baking!