Freshly baked apple cake fills your home with an irresistible aroma that brings back memories of cozy fall days. This delightful dessert is not just a regular cake; it’s a celebration of the fresh apples that are in season, making it a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether enjoyed as a sweet snack or a comforting dessert after dinner, this apple cake is sure to win everyone’s hearts.
What Goes into This Fresh Apple Cake
Before we get started, let’s gather everything you need to whip up this delicious apple cake. Here’s what you’ll require:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (4g)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda (5g)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (2.5g)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (3g)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (115g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5ml)
- 2 cups peeled and diced apples (about 3 medium apples)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional, 60g)
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the baking process!
Step-by-Step Fresh Apple Cake Recipe
Follow these simple directions to create your own fresh apple cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This blend will ensure your cake rises beautifully and has a great flavor.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or a whisk—just make sure it’s well combined!
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract for that extra flavor boost.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!
- Fold in Apples and Nuts: Gently fold in the diced apples and chopped nuts (if you’re using them) until evenly distributed in the batter.
- Spoon into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool Down: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before cutting into squares and serving.
The Best Way to Serve It
This fresh apple cake is a versatile treat that can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some ideas:
- Warm or Cold: Enjoy it warm out of the oven or let it cool completely before serving; it tastes amazing either way!
- With Ice Cream: Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic dessert experience.
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream makes for a lovely addition, adding creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the apple flavor.
- Garnished: Sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top or add a sprinkle of powdered sugar to elevate its presentation.
Helpful Tricks for Fresh Apple Cake
Here are some tips to make your fresh apple cake even better:
- Apples Matter: Choose your apples wisely. Tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well to balance the sweetness of the cake.
- Add a Crunch: If you love texture, consider adding oats or a streusel topping before baking for an extra crunch on top.
- Flavor Twists: Mix in some raisins or dried cranberries for additional sweetness and chewiness for a fun twist on this classic recipe.
Fresh Apple Cake FAQs
Can I use different types of nuts in this cake?
Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts or pecans with almonds, hazelnuts, or even leave the nuts out entirely if you prefer a nut-free option.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for about a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage!
Can I mix the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to bake the batter right after mixing for the best texture. However, you can prepare the dry ingredients ahead of time and store them in a sealed container until you’re ready to bake.
There you have it! This fresh apple cake recipe is simple, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Try it out, and share your baking experience with family and friends. Happy baking!