Looking for a delightful way to enjoy apples this season? This Easy Apple Cake is just the ticket! Bursting with fresh apple flavor, this sweet treat is perfect for casual gatherings, brunches, or a cozy dessert after dinner. Its tender texture and warm spices make it a comforting choice that appeals to everyone. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, meaning you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.
Gather Your Easy Apple Cake Ingredients
For this delicious apple cake, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (115g)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (150g)
- ¼ cup light brown sugar (50g)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (120ml)
- 3 medium apples (about 1 ½ cups peeled and chopped)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries (optional)
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar (optional topping)
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional topping)
Directions for Easy Apple Cake
Follow these easy steps to whip up your apple cake:
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Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and chop the apples into small cubes. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning and set them aside.
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line your cake pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
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Cream the Butter and Sugars: In another bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
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Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract until everything is well combined.
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Incorporate Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream or yogurt until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is just combined.
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Add Apples and Mix-ins: Gently fold in the chopped apples, and if you’re using them, add the walnuts or raisins for extra texture.
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Transfer Batter to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. If desired, sprinkle the top with a mixture of 2 tbsp of granulated sugar and ½ tsp of cinnamon for added sweetness and flavor.
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Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If you’re using a loaf pan, you may need to add an extra 5–10 minutes.
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Cool the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
The Best Way to Serve It
Wondering how to serve your Easy Apple Cake? This cake is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it even further. Serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a crowd-pleaser. For a sweet touch, dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle a simple icing made of powdered sugar and lemon juice. Pair it with a cup of hot tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon treat!
Expert Tips for Easy Apple Cake
- Apple Variety: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a more complex flavor.
- Storage: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. This cake also freezes well, so you can enjoy it later!
- Add-Ins: Feel free to experiment with add-ins like shredded coconut or chocolate chips for a fun twist to your apple cake.
Easy Apple Cake FAQs
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! This batter works well with other fruits like pears or peaches if you want to switch things up.
2. Is it necessary to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skin on if you prefer. Just make sure to wash them well!
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake tastes even better the next day, so feel free to bake it in advance and let the flavors meld overnight.
Don’t wait any longer—give this Easy Apple Cake recipe a try! It’s a perfect choice for any occasion or just a simple dessert at home. Your friends and family will love it, and you’ll enjoy making it!